Written by: Natalia Chawla (CityFM89)
Spotted! A Labubu perched on a Birkin, a Kelly, or even a Louis Vuitton—these tiny, fluffy figurines are becoming the must-have accessory dangling from the side of every it girl’s designer bag. Weighing only 85 grams, these seemingly innocent toys are causing serious damage to wallets worldwide. What was once a niche collectible has quickly become a global fashion and pop culture statement. Labubu is a highly sought-after designer toy character created by Chinese artist Kasing Lung. Lung is renowned for his whimsical fantasy universe known as The Monsters, in which each creature possesses its own distinct personality and charm. However, among the many quirky characters, Labubu stands out the most—thanks to its wide, expressive eyes, mischievous toothy grin, and a look that is equal parts playful and spooky. Produced and sold by the Chinese art toy brand POP MART, Labubus are typically packaged in blind boxes, meaning buyers have no idea which figure they’ll receive until they open it—adding an element of surprise and suspense that fuels the buying frenzy.
Several factors contribute to Labubu’s rise in popularity. Its childlike appearance appeals not only to younger audiences but also to adults who find nostalgia and comfort in its unique design. The rugged, handmade aesthetic sets Labubu apart from more polished designer toys, giving it an artisanal, almost collectible feel that resonates with mature fans. The blind-box purchasing model creates a gamified shopping experience, enhanced further by rare variants and limited- edition releases. This, in turn, cultivates a thriving collector culture where owning a rare Labubu becomes a badge of honor. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, are saturated with unboxing videos, display setups, and fan-made content. This massive online presence has played a crucial role in Labubu’s mainstream success, turning the figurine from an underground art toy into a cultural icon. Influencers and collectors alike willingly endure hours in long queues to get their hands on new releases. The toy has also featured in a variety of collaborations, including glow-in-the-dark specials, holiday editions, and creative crossovers. These drops are often so exclusive that they sell out within minutes—further cementing Labubu’s cult status.
However, as with any fast-growing trend, opinions on Labubu are sharply divided. Supporters view it as a miniature masterpiece—a form of modern art that brings back childhood memories and allows collectors to own a piece of a fantasy world. For them, each figure is not just a toy but a storytelling device and a valuable collectible. Yet, this raises the question: are these figurines truly appreciated for their artistic merit, or are they just fashionable accessories used for clout? How many buyers can even name the creator behind the phenomenon? Critics are far less forgiving. Many dismiss Labubu as an overpriced and aesthetically unappealing toy, arguing that it’s more of a marketing gimmick than a meaningful artistic creation. The blind-box concept has also come under fire for promoting what some describe as a form of “toy gambling,” especially among younger consumers. Detractors view the figurine as a short-lived trend—plastic clutter disguised as high culture and destined to fade away as quickly as it rose. Regardless of where one stands, there’s no denying that Labubu has become a cultural phenomenon, expertly blending art, storytelling, and commercial appeal. Whether adored as a charming collectible or criticized as a fleeting fashion fad, Labubu’s impact on the modern designer toy landscape is undeniable. As long as there’s an appetite for creativity, nostalgia, and a bit of mystery, Labubu will continue to captivate—and perhaps haunt—collectors and fashionistas around the world.
