The allure of art toys is sweeping across the globe, with Labubu, in particular, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Notably, Lisa from BLACKPINK has also joined the frenzy of art toy collecting.
The Journey of Art Toy Collection
In addition to its presence in the fashion scene, Labubu has also made significant strides in the entertainment industry, transcending its status as a mere toy. Collaborations with renowned artists, musicians, and filmmakers have propelled Labubu into the realm of pop culture, further solidifying its influence. From appearing in music videos to featuring in art exhibitions and even making cameo appearances in blockbuster films, Labubu has become a beloved character beloved by people of all ages. Its whimsical charm and endearing personality continue to captivate audiences worldwide, making Labubu not just a toy, but a cultural phenomenon that continues to evolve and inspire.
Within the art toy collecting community, the name “LABUBU” echoes loudly. This popularity surged when Lisa (BLACKPINK) shared a photo of herself with this particular toy on her Instagram story. The renowned rapper posed alongside The Monsters’ Macaron collection, sparking a craze that skyrocketed the price of LABUBU on social media platforms. People even found themselves engaged in bidding wars to acquire this toy endorsed by their idol.
Labubu originates from the Monster Kingdom, a creation of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, drawing inspiration from Northern European fairy tales. Designed as a creature resembling a rabbit, Labubu features long ears, sharp teeth, large eyes, and a mischievous smile. Its adorable appearance has captivated many. However, Labubu was initially envisioned with a slender frame and a slender face. This original design was crafted by Kasing Lung in collaboration with How2work before he signed with Pop Mart.
Over time, the character was redesigned to have a fuller face, endearing it even more to fans. Labubu is accompanied by a group of monster friends in The Monster Kingdom, including Tycoco – a cute long-haired male, Labubu’s boyfriend, Spooky – a justice-loving monster who enjoys nighttime, and Pato El – rabbit-like creatures with vivid imaginations. The LABUBU collection gradually gained fame and won the hearts of numerous fans.
As the trend of accessorizing with wristlets for handbags rose, these adorable toys were also utilized as fashion accessories. Labubu keychain designs were no exception. This versatility further endeared the collection to fashion lovers. Influencers, including many celebrities, were entirely influenced by the LABUBU trend. These items could be crafted into special “attachments” to add cuteness to your favorite bag. Today, it has become a popular trend nationwide and continues to spread to other countries.
Labubu made its debut as a high-fashion icon with Simomo by taking a front-row seat at the Pronounce Fall-Winter 2024 collection during Milan Men’s Fashion Week earlier this year. Both appeared in custom-designed cord-patterned cardigans by the brand. The character stole the spotlight at the event, creating a memorable moment that brought art toy characters to life in the most vivid way possible.
Moreover, Labubu’s influence extends beyond the fashion world, seeping into various aspects of pop culture. From music videos to social media posts, Labubu’s presence is increasingly felt, transcending its origins as a mere toy and evolving into a cultural phenomenon embraced by people of all ages. With its charm and whimsical appeal, Labubu continues to carve its place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of art and fashion.