Labubu: The Trendy Tooth Monster Taking Over Fashion
Labubu, the plush doll with a mischievous grin and pointed ears, has become a hot commodity in the world of collectibles. Social media is abuzz with videos of collectors sharing tips on how to snag one of these trendy dolls, made and sold by Chinese retailer Pop Mart.
The latest Labubu collection, released last Friday, sold out within seconds, with resellers already marking up prices on sites like eBay. Despite the $27.99 price tag for a single blind box or $167.94 for a set of six, eager buyers are willing to pay double for the chance to own one.
Pop Mart’s “blind box” system adds an element of surprise, as buyers don’t know which design or color they’ll receive until they open the box. This mystery factor has only added to the dolls’ allure, with online restocks selling out instantaneously and fans lining up for hours outside Pop Mart stores.
The demand for Labubu dolls has reached such heights that resellers have become the go-to source for many collectors, like Thania Gonzalez, a fashion content creator based in Los Angeles. Gonzalez, who used to purchase Labubus directly from Pop Mart, now relies on her “Labubu plug” to feed her growing collection.
The appeal of Labubus goes beyond their cute appearance, with fans finding joy in dressing up their dolls and customizing them with fan-made outfits. The dolls, created in 2015 by artist Kasing Lung, are part of “The Monsters” series inspired by Nordic mythology.
Celebrities like Rihanna and Blackpink’s Lisa have also jumped on the Labubu bandwagon, sporting the dolls as charms on their luxury handbags. Lisa, in particular, has expressed her love for Labubu, calling it her “baby” and sharing her collection on social media.
The frenzy surrounding Labubu launches has led to chaotic scenes at Pop Mart stores, with crowds lining up for a chance to snag one of the coveted dolls. In some cases, events have been canceled due to overwhelming demand, and instances of theft have been reported as people try to get their hands on Labubus by any means necessary.
As the craze continues to grow, so does the market for counterfeit Labubus, known as “lafufus.” Collectors are now on high alert, sharing tips on how to spot the fakes and protect their precious collections.
Labubu’s rise to fame highlights the enduring appeal of collectibles and the nostalgia they evoke in fans. For many, these dolls offer a playful escape from the stresses of adulthood, allowing them to connect with their inner child through creativity and imagination.
In the world of Labubu, the hunt for the perfect doll is not just a hobby but a passion that brings people together in pursuit of a shared obsession. Whether waiting in line for hours or scouring online forums for restock alerts, Labubu collectors are united by their love for these quirky, toothy monsters.