Why are Labubus my Roman Empire?

The Rise of Labubu Dolls in Pop Culture and Collectibles

What do K-pop stars, high fashion, and toy enthusiasts have in common? They’ve all played a role in making Labubu dolls one of the most talked-about collectibles in recent years. These mischievous little creations, with their distinctive grins and quirky designs, are no longer just a niche interest. They’ve become a global phenomenon.

What Are Labubu Dolls?

Labubu dolls are part of “The Monsters” series created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung back in 2015. Originally featured in his picture books, these elf-like figures with pointy ears, serrated teeth, and playful grins captured the imaginations of toy enthusiasts. Fast-forward to 2019, and Lung teamed up with Chinese toy giant Pop Mart to transform Labubu into a physical vinyl collectible.

The dolls started small, gaining a dedicated cult following among toy collectors and design lovers. However, their recent skyrocketing popularity is due to a surprising mix of celebrity endorsements, luxury fashion collaborations, and the power of social media.

Why Are Labubu Dolls Suddenly Everywhere?

1. Celebrity Influence

The Labubu craze truly began when Lisa, the K-pop superstar from Blackpink, showcased her collection on Instagram. With over 100 million followers, Lisa’s endorsement catapulted these collectibles into the fashion limelight. Her posts featuring Labubu dolls styled with high-end accessories like Hermès handbags created an instant viral buzz. Edward Jefferson, a luxury brand consultant, shared his experience on Instagram, “I saw them clipped onto Hermès bags and thought, ‘Right, I need that too.’”

2. High Fashion Meets Quirky Playfulness

With endorsements from figures like Lisa, Labubu dolls have become a surprising but stylish addition to luxury fashion. Appearing on Valentino pop-ups or accessorising stylish handbags, they’ve turned childhood whimsy into high-end statement pieces. Jonny Lamb, founder of Evolve Studios, explains, “The charm of Labubu is that you can incorporate it into your outfits. Over the weekend, I clipped three onto my Dior Saddle Bag and went to the pub.”

3. The Thrill of the Blind Box

Unlike typical toys, Labubu dolls are often sold in blind boxes. This means you don’t know which doll you’ll get until you open the box, adding an element of surprise and excitement. Collectors particularly prize rare or limited-edition designs like the elusive “Chestnut Cocoa.”

Music artist VAS LEON summed it up well, “…the suspense of not knowing which one I was going to get when opening a box… everyone loves something limited and not easily obtainable.”

4. Social Media Virality

Labubu’s visual appeal and uniqueness make them perfect for social media. On platforms like Instagram and TikTok, collectors share unboxing videos, styling ideas, and limited-edition finds, spreading the excitement among audiences worldwide.

5. The Comfort of “Kidulting”

Labubu fits seamlessly into the “kidulting” trend, where adults indulge in nostalgic or playful hobbies, like collecting toys. Psychologists link this phenomenon to stress relief; connecting with childhood comforts like toys releases dopamine and serotonin, creating moments of joy in hectic adult lives.

Professor Carolyn Mair explains, “Adults finding comfort in toys is part of the kidulting culture. It helps them feel nostalgic and provides relief from daily stress.”

Who Collects Labubu Dolls?

Labubu’s appeal spans across diverse demographics. The “kidult” trend appeals to millennials and Gen Z, many of whom grew up with collectible toys like Funko Pops or Be@rbricks. At the same time, fashionable individuals are drawn to this mix of whimsy and luxury.

The popularity of men’s handbags, for example, is another driver of Labubu frenzy. These dolls act as playful charms, bringing levity to otherwise sleek designer bags.

John J. Lee, a UX designer and fashion enthusiast, shared his story, “Labubu felt like the perfect mix of quirky and stylish… I love the contrast of their playful energy against the clean lines of luxury bags.”

Collecting Labubu Dolls Today

If you’re thinking about starting your Labubu collection, here are a few things to consider:

Where to Buy: Labubu dolls are sold through Pop Mart. Secondary markets like StockX are also hotspots for rare editions.
Limited Editions: Some designs, like collabs with Vans or New Year specials, are rare and can command high prices.
Blind Box Strategy: The thrill of unboxing adds to the fun, but it also means you might not always get the one you’re after.

Labubu’s meteoric rise represents more than just a collectible trend. It reflects a larger cultural moment where high fashion intersects with playfulness, where social media drives global trends, and where adults find unexpected joy in items designed to spark their creativity.