Fashion is no stranger to quirky trends, and there’s a new one in town! Labubus, plush monster dolls with wide eyes and mischievous smiles, are the latest product to go viral on TikTok.
The Labubu doll was created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung. Born in the Netherlands, Lung drew inspiration from Nordic mythology to design these characters, which first debuted in his picture book, ‘The Monsters Trilogy,’ in 2015. The reason behind their virality? They’re sold in blind boxes, so buyers don’t know which colour or design they’re getting until the box is opened – adding an element of surprise that has collectors hooked. These collectibles are available in various forms, including figurines, keychains, and plushies.
For a while, Labubu remained a niche favourite within toy collector communities, until something shifted. The Labubu bag charm frenzy began when BLACKPINK and White Lotus star Lisa was first spotted carrying it. Designer collaborations followed suit, with legacy fashion houses like Louis Vuitton hopping on the bandwagon with limited-edition verisons, transforming it into a luxury collectable.
In an age where fashion leans into the offbeat, andis rooted in personal expression, Labubu fits right in. The chaotic-cute energy and distinct design makes Labubu’s appeal enduring, adding whimsy to the otherwise sophisticated luxury ‘It bags’ bags that A-listers are often seen carrying.
Labubu isn’t the kind of companion you tuck away quietly, its one that demands the spotlight hanging off a sharply tailored handbag.
