Can’t even outdress my … what? From Lizzo’s newest song to thousands of TikTok videos, Labubu dolls are everywhere!
Some people might say these dolls look too freaky, while others think they look so ugly it’s cute, some even thinking it’s just adorable.
But regardless of how you feel about them, you might be wondering what exactly is a Labubu. Here’s what to know and where you can find them in Florida.
What is a Labubu doll? Why is Labubu so famous?
Labubu is a toy character that resembles a small child with large eyes, a mischievous smile laced with pointy teeth and a colorful fuzzy body. She (yes, she) is customizable with accessories and be displayed or put on clothing as a charm.
“Despite a mischievous look, she is kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite,” toy giant Pop Mart writes.
According to Business Insider, the doll was designed roughly a decade ago by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, as part of the “The Monsters” series inspired by Nordic mythology. Labubu, “a small monster with high, pointed ears and serrated teeth,” is the most recognized character in the books.
In 2019, Pop Mart turned Lung’s character into collectibles and blind boxes, which is a type of packaging that keeps its contents a mystery until it is opened. Today, Labubu blind boxes are sold worldwide by the Beijing-based toy maker as a part of their “The Monsters” line.
Many owe the toy’s popularity to celebrities showing off their love for them, especially BLACKPINK singer Lisa. Pop Mart officials also highlight their blind box mode and social media presence as reasons for the toy’s virality.
According to NBC News, “The Monsters series” is Pop Mart’s best-selling franchise, generating $419 million in sales last year.
See popular TikToks, IG Reels of Labubu dolls
How much does a Labubu doll cost?
According to USA TODAY, Lung’s art inspired a collection of dolls, from plushies the size of a toddler that cost anywhere between $85 to over $289, to smaller keychains and plastic figures that can only be purchased in blind boxes starting at $16.
Almost every piece of merchandise inspired by Labubu and “The Monsters” line is sold out on Pop Mart’s website.
What is a Lafufu? How to tell if Labubu is real
“Lafufu” is a playful term for counterfeit or knock-off Labubu dolls.
According to the website Labubu World, there are ways to tell a knockoff Labubu from the real deal:
Price Tag: “A Labubu for $10 instead of $50+? It’s likely a Lafufu.”
Quality Clues: “Authentic Labubus might have minor QC flaws, but Lafufus often scream “fake” with uneven fur, odd colors (like a too-pink nose), or wobbly limbs.”
Packaging: “Real PopMart Labubus arrive in branded boxes with scannable QR codes. Lafufus? Think plain bags or flimsy knockoff packaging.”
Details: “Check the hands, blush, or UV foot markings — Lafufus often skimp on these signature Labubu traits.”
Where to buy Labubu dolls online, in Florida
Pop Mart sells the toys on their website and through various other retailers.
To ensure that you are purchasing authentic Labubu or “The Monsters” merchandise, purchase the dolls directly from Pop Mart, its Amazon store, other major retailers or Pop Mart’s verified TikTok accounts: @popmart_us, @popmart.uslocal01 and @popmart.usshop.
Specifically in Florida, there are a couple of places to score a Labubu — Pop Us! Collectibles & Toys in Orlando’s Florida Mall and blind box vending machines at Miami’s Dolphin Mall.
Contributing: Julia Gomez, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Labubu dolls are taking over. Where to get viral dolls in Florida