They might only be around 20 centimeters tall, but these Labubu toys have left a big impression—so much so that people are styling them
A major bag trend has evolved in recent seasons—bags that are full of personality and brimming with character and fun are in. Bags that make sound. Bags that are covered with anik-anik—kitsch charms, stickers, tchotchkes, and key-rings aplenty. This trend debuted on the runway, where sleek Miu Miu and Coach bags were adorned with jangling chains and charms, and now it’s everywhere. Accessorizing day-to-day items is adding a personalized touch and a splash of personality in an otherwise predictable world, and what makes this trend particularly appealing is that it can easily be tweaked over time. Add new keychains or swap in charms as you see fit; or, you know, dress and style the dolls themselves.
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The Labubu Love
The word “Labubu” has been bandied about on social media for being the latest must-have item or bag charm. Labubu, a monster from Pop Mart’s The Monsters collection by Kasing Lung, has emerged as the hottest new status symbol in town, completely changing the landscape of collector culture. This doll has been flying off the shelves since receiving a stamp of approval from BLACKPINK’s Lisa, who was seen with a giant Labubu plush and accessorizing her Birkin and Kaithe Elena with a Labubu charm. Her bandmate Rosé was also spotted with the doll, which fueled Labubu’s rise to fame and further propelled the figurine in the annals of collecting history.
It’s then safe to say that the cheeky-looking monster has gained a cult following—just last August, collectors flocked to the Pop Toy Show at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore to get their hands on the limited edition toy that included a Singapore-exclusive Merlion plush. On the first day of the event, the situation was so crazy that the police had to be called in to control the crowd.
The fact that it comes in a blind box, so you never really know what doll you’re going to get, may be part of its appeal, but it’s also become one of the most sought-after non-fashion, non-food items for Gen Z and Zillennial because people can now dress them up.
Literally Dolled Up
The naughty elven doll with pointed fangs can don Prada overalls with a matching Prada hat, a Chanel sweater, loafers, and its own mini-Chanel backpack as it hangs from your own Chanel backpack, a Louis Vuitton set for a Louis Vuitton bag. Some style the doll in crocheted items, dresses, jeans, and costumes; some give their Labubus cameras, sunglasses, umbrellas, suitcases, scarves and hats.
A licensed dentist on TikTok even placed braces on her own Labubu doll—fully customizing it to complement her profession. With one doll, you can do everything—it already allows for endless customization options, making it easy to adapt to your outfit no matter the occasion or mood.
The Celebrity Charm Statement
Many local personalities and celebrities around Southeast Asia are on a massive search for this blind box collection; Filipino stars who joined in on the Labubu hype include Vice Ganda, who was filming while in what seems to be a pop-mart store, saying, “Nandito tayo para mamakyaw ng Labubu!” Another star who collects on the side is Filipino-American content creator Bretman Rock, who boasts six Labubu plushies for each of his everyday luxury handbags. Actress Janine Gutierrez was gifted by her makeup artist, Anthea Bueno, her own Labubu doll. Seemingly, the Lavender Fields star got the same toy as BLACKPINK’s Rosé.
Finally, award-winning actress Marian Rivera shows off her own collection, proving that celebrities can fall victim to the cuteness of these dolls and the allure of styling them.
The Labubu dolls are available for purchase on the official Pop Mart website, but be warned: they’re usually out of stock as there is heavy competition when it comes to getting your hands on just one doll. However, eager collectors and doll stylists are assured that stocks are more to come, so keep an eye out and start stocking up a mini wardrobe.
Photos and Featured Image: KAT LSM, SECRETOHM SATAPAT, LISA (via Instagram), MARIAN RIVERA (via Facebook)