Labubu Craze: From Louis Vuitton to Lakmé and K-pop Idols

If you’ve seen a spiky-haired, sharp-toothed little doll hanging from a celebrity’s bag lately, you’ve just met Labubu—the newest superstar in the world of fashion and collectibles. What started as a niche toy is now the must-have accessory for stars and brands alike, from Louis Vuitton to Lakmé. Let’s dive into how Labubu became a global sensation and why everyone, from K-pop idols to Bollywood stars, can’t get enough of this mischievous little monster.

From Storybook to Superstar

Labubu was created in 2015 by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung for a children’s book series called The Monsters. With pointy ears, wild eyes, and a toothy grin, Labubu looks like a mix between an elf and a gremlin. The doll first gained a cult following when Pop Mart, a Chinese toy company, started selling Labubu figures in 2019. But there was a twist—each Labubu came in a “blind box,” so you never knew which version you’d get until you opened it. This surprise factor made collecting Labubu dolls feel like a lucky draw, and people loved it.

The Celebrity Effect

Labubu’s real rise to fame started when celebrities began showing off their own Labubu charms. K-pop superstar Lisa from BLACKPINK posted a photo with her Labubu, and soon other stars like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and David Beckham were spotted with the quirky doll clipped to their luxury bags. In India, actress Ananya Panday was seen with a pastel pink Labubu charm, and her fans went wild. Every time a celebrity is seen with Labubu, demand skyrockets—fans queue up outside stores, scramble for online drops, and even join bidding wars for rare editions.

Brands Join the Labubu Party

Big brands quickly noticed the buzz. Louis Vuitton, known for its high-end handbags, released limited-edition Labubu collaborations, turning the doll into a luxury collectible. Beauty brand Lakmé, endorsed by Ananya Panday, joined the trend by sharing playful posts of Labubu holding their sunscreen. These brand tie-ups make Labubu even more desirable, blending fun, fashion, and collectability in one tiny package.

Why Is Labubu So Popular?

• Blind Box Thrill: You don’t know which version you’ll get, so every unboxing is exciting.
• Celebrity Endorsement: When stars carry Labubu, fans want it too.
• Cute and Quirky: Labubu’s mix of “ugly-cute” makes it stand out from other toys.
• Fashion Statement: More than a toy, Labubu is now a charm for bags, a desk buddy, or even a lucky mascot.
• Social Media Buzz: Instagram and TikTok are full of Labubu unboxing videos and creative posts.

The Business Boom

Labubu isn’t just a trend—it’s big business. In 2024, Labubu helped Pop Mart earn nearly $400 million, with rare dolls selling for thousands of dollars in the resale market. Standard dolls cost around ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 in India, but special editions can fetch much more. The craze is so intense that some stores sell out in minutes, and even celebrities have trouble finding their favorite versions.

Where Can You Get Labubu?

Labubu dolls are now available in India through websites like Kalakaar, Hype Fly India, and Crep Dog Crew. Prices start at around ₹5,000, but limited editions cost more. Some sites even offer deals like “Buy One, Get One,” making it easier for fans to start their own collection.

More Than Just a Doll

For many, Labubu is more than just a collectible. It’s a way to add some fun to daily life, a reminder not to take things too seriously, and a symbol of how childhood nostalgia can blend with grown-up style. Whether you love it or find it a little odd, there’s no denying that Labubu has captured the world’s imagination—and it doesn’t look like the craze will end anytime soon.

So next time you spot a jagged-toothed doll on someone’s bag, you’ll know: it’s Labubu, the little monster that’s taken over the world of fashion, one blind box at a time.