Labubu on your designer bag: what is it, why does everyone want it and alternatives

Hey... What's that dangling from that designer bag? Not a classic silk scarf or leather pocket mirror, but a strange-looking figure with a toothy grin and big ears. Meet Labubu, the monstrous cuddly figure that has conquered the fashion world in record time. We do like kawaii, so: hype or have? Not so sure, read on...

What is Labubu?

Labubu is the brainchild of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, who grew up in the Netherlands and now lives in Belgium. The figure is part of his series The Monsters, a collection of playful, sometimes slightly creepy creatures with a good dose of Scandinavian folklore. Labubu himself? Think of a cross between a naughty rabbit, a Gremlin and a cartoon character.

In collaboration with the Chinese Pop Mart, Labubu became a cult hit. Through so-called blind boxes – boxes in which you only see which figure you have after purchase – they became wildly popular among collectors worldwide. From mini key rings to plush toys: there are now hundreds of variants, some rare and very expensive.

Labubu Exciting Macaron BlindBox 1 Piece - €59,-

From toy to status symbol

The big breakthrough came when celebrities like Lisa from The White Lotus and even Rihanna were spotted with a Labubu on their bag. Since then, the doll has become more than a toy: it has become a fashion statement. Think: high fashion with a wink.

Labubu fits perfectly into the trend of “ugly-cute” – cute things with a strange or ugly edge. It also touches on our need for nostalgia, they definitely have something of the 80s Monchhichi, something tangible and childlike in a world full of screens and stress. Moreover, bag charms have also been in high demand since last year.

But... do we really have to go along with this?

Now comes the critical note. Because although it all looks cheerful, this craze also raises questions:

• A simple Labubu key ring quickly costs €59,- and then you don't know what you get (blind box) and that for a figure of less than 10 cm.
• The hype paves the way for a flood of cheap knock-offs on sites like Temu and AliExpress. What a shame these days :(
• How sustainable is this trend? Today Labubu, tomorrow something else?!

In a time when we are increasingly thinking about consumption and sustainability, it might be good to ask yourself: do I really want this, or do I want to belong?

Original alternatives for Labubu

If you like decorating your bag, but would rather choose something more creative or original than the latest hype item, there are fortunately enough alternatives. Take a look at these gems:

1. Molang keychain by Nici - super soft, Japanese cute and just a little bit different. Nippon Kawaii - €6.99
2. Sumikko Gurashi keyring – these little Japanese figures are a party on your key ring or bag. This one is from the Fairy Flower Garden series. MostCutest - €16.95
3. Jellycat avocado keyring - who doesn't know these wonderfully soft cuddly toys? They are now also available in mini size. Sissy-Boy - €31.99

These Happlify Crew alternatives are not only more friendly priced, but often also more unique and just as cute. Plus you support smaller (web)shops, win-win!

So... Labubu or would you rather have something else?

Agreed: Labubu is undoubtedly a super fun eye-catcher. But as with every hype, it is good to ask yourself: does this make me happy, or am I tempted? Look, if you are smitten , then Labubu is definitely something for you. But there are also enough sustainable, affordable and original alternatives that radiate at least as much style and charm.

And if you still want a Labubu, which I can understand very well, check out this video to make sure you get a real one!