You’ve probably seen them dangling off belt loops, poking out of beaded bags, or sitting smugly on an It-girl’s bookshelf. These aren’t your average plush toys though – they’re the latest wave of character collectibles making their way from niche corners of the internet into the mainstream style lexicon.
From Sonny Angels and their fruity little hats to the mischievous grin of Labubu, these toys-turned-accessories have officially entered their cool-girl era. What started with blind box culture and childhood nostalgia has transformed into a full-blown aesthetic – one that’s playful, a little ironic, and completely adorable.
Whether you’re into the fuzzy kitsch of Monchhichi or the sweet naivety of a Jellycat, there’s a plush for every personality. And the best part? You don’t have to choose just one. And to welcome in the age of the emotional support keychain, we’ve rounded up 7 of the most popular toys, trinkets and bag charms you should know about.
1. Sonny Angels
Where to buy: Tiny Paper Co, Blink Box, Little Fish Co, and other accredited stockists.
They’re naked, they’re angelic, and somehow they’ve become the unofficial mascots of cool-girl keychains. Whether peeking out of a Ganni shoulder bag or chilling on a windowsill, these pint-sized cherubs with fruit hats are giving collectible culture a fresh, cheeky twist. Pull one from a blind box and suddenly you’ve got emotional attachment to a tiny tomato boy.
2. Monnchichi
Where to buy: Hands, Pinky’s Store, Blink Box, or in store at KAWAII store in Burwood
Your mum might remember them from the ‘80s, but Monchhichi is back – and way cuter clipped to a Prada nylon pouch. That fuzzy face and pacifier combo? Surprisingly high fashion. They’re the kind of kitsch that winks at you from your tote and says, “Don’t take life too seriously.”
3. Labubu
Where to buy: Pop Mart, or in store at KAWAII store in Burwood
If you crossed a gremlin with a woodland elf and gave it cult status in the fashion scene, you’d have Labubu. With its toothy grin and mischief energy, it’s the plush of choice for collectors who like their cute with a little chaos. Spotted on street style stars and dangling off designer belt loops – Labubu’s gone from niche to need it now.
4. Hello Kitty / Sanrio
Where to buy: Sanrio, Amazon and Shinzo Japanese Gifts
She’s been serving bows and blank stares since 1974, and now Hello Kitty (plus the rest of her Sanrio crew) is living her best bag charm life. There’s something powerful about a grown adult confidently rocking a My Melody plushie on their Telfar. It’s maximalist, it’s nostalgic, and honestly? It just makes people smile.
5. Crybaby
Where to buy: Pop Mart and Valor Hype
The name says Crybaby, but these plush pals are the ones wiping our tears with their big-eyed cuteness. Think pastel fantasy meets chaotic mood swing – the perfect Gen Z emotional support keyring. Clip one on and consider it your tiny, soft-spoken therapist for the day.
6. Jellycat
Where to buy: online and via a range of stockists
Once the go-to cuddle companion for stylish babies, Jellycat has officially been adopted by the grown-up girlies. Their iconic Bashful Bunnies have hopped from nursery shelves to Loewe totes, and frankly, we’re obsessed. With butter-soft fur and a permanently curious expression, they’re giving quiet luxury in plushie form. It’s not just a keyring—it’s a comfort object with taste.
7. Smiski
Where to buy: Little Cove Collective, Blink Box, and Amazon, or in-store at Tiny Paper Co. in Melbourne
Tiny, glow-in-the-dark, and always loitering in odd positions – Smiski might just be your weirdest new friend. These shy little creatures hide in corners (literally), but on a keychain, they’re a pocket-sized reminder to embrace your inner oddball. Spotted peeking from mesh pouches and Miu Miu minis, Smiski is the subtle flex for those who know that strange is the new cute.
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Feature images: one, two.