Bag charms: Unboxing the Pop Mart Labubu phenomenon
Whether you've realised it or not, you have likely come across a Labubu in 2025. These plush toys, resembling small, toothy monsters, have been rapidly growing in popularity in the last few months. You may have spotted one clipped on a designer handbag or in an unboxing video during a late-night TikTok scroll. Either way, Labubu has truly taken over and become a cultural phenomenon.
Instagram credit: @cinziabayliszullo
Inside the Blind Box Craze
Perhaps the most enticing part of owning a Labubu is the unboxing experience. The toys are sold in ‘blind boxes’, where buyers don’t know what colour they have secured until it has been opened. This element of surprise has heavily contributed to the excitement and allure surrounding Labubu, keeping collectors coming back, in hopes of scoring their dream plush.
If you’re interested in joining in on the hype, you’ll need to have a plan, as obtaining a Labubu isn’t as easy as just walking into a store and picking one off the shelf. With releases selling out immediately after being restocked, collectors have resorted to lining up for hours prior to stores opening just to get their hands on one.
Fashion with a playful twist
The rise in popularity of Labubu leans into maximalism and nostalgia-core, a drastic contrast to the quiet luxury we’ve seen take over fashion trends since 2020. These cute accessories have been seen swinging from the bags of celebrities and influencers, resulting in the current craze that has emerged. Whether they’re hanging off a Louis Vuitton handbag or clipped on a thrifted backpack, Labubu has made an undeniable impact on fashion.
How to style your Labubu
After accomplishing the challenge of acquiring a Labubu, you’ll be eager to show off your new plush pal. See our top tips for how to incorporate your Labubu into your looks!
1. Your New Purse Pal
The most popular way to style your Labubu is as a bag charm. You could keep it classic with just the one bag charm or lean into a maximalist aesthetic by pairing with keychains and other trinkets.
Instagram credit: @agenciayoda
2. Loop it, love it
Add a playful twist to your look by dangling your Labubu off your jeans’ belt loop. Accompany the plush with a chunky chain to embrace an effortless street-style look.
Instagram credit: @mollyjcook
3. Match with your monster
If you’ve managed to score your dream Labubu colour, match it with your outfit for a thoughtful, coordinated look. Some have even opted to buy custom matching outfits for their Labubu. Your new gingham dress, why not get a matching hat for your Labubu? Alternatively, keep your outfit neutral and let the Labubu be the focal point, adding a pop of colour.
Instagram credit: @samtodd
No Labubu? No problem
If you’re unable to get your hands on a Labubu, you can still join in on the fun. Labubu’s popularity has fuelled a rise in bag charms. The trend evokes a sense of nostalgia, bringing you back to the playground where school bags are decorated with a mix of charms and key chains filled with personality.
Whether you're lining up for the next Labubu restock, or just looking to add a playful twist to your everyday style, shop all things Labubu in-store at Pop Mart and EB Games & Zing Pop Culture.
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