Decoding Labubu: The Plush Toy Tapping into Nostalgia & Taking Over Fashion
What is it about Labubu that's making this kawaii craze go mainstream, attracting adults who would seem well beyond the age of parading plush toys on their luxury bags? Take it from a self-professed Hello Kitty fan – these Kawaii characters, cute, fluffy and childlike, make us feel young and carefree. At a time when quiet luxury has dominated mainstream trends, Labubu charms have shocked the system; waking up fashion enthusiasts with a bold, playful punch.
'It's like a little doll bringing my inner child out,' agrees Dubai-based stylist of 15 years, Chloe Louise, who creates customised jewellery and bag charms, often from thrifted children's toys. 'Its playful, yet slightly mischievous vibe reminds me not to take things too seriously,' comments Vogue contributor Ty Gaskins.
Photo: Saira Noorani
'They're unapologetic about how they look and how they make you feel,' shares Saira Noorani, who has affixed a white Labubu to her red Hermès Kelly bag. Noorani works part-time as a live selling host at Luxury Promise – a pre-loved marketplace with a dedicated hub in Japan.
'Back in Dubai and London, we couldn't keep them on the shelves. Truly – gone in a day,' she continues. 'There are three left in the Dubai office, if you're feeling lucky.'
If Labubu can liven up accessories from the greatest names in luxury, it can win over even the most hesitant among us. Take the sartorial leap – the affection you develop for this little Kawaii critter might just surprise you.
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Decoding Labubu: The Plush Toy Tapping into Nostalgia & Taking Over Fashion
What is it about Labubu that's making this kawaii craze go mainstream, attracting adults who would seem well beyond the age of parading plush toys on their luxury bags? Take it from a self-professed Hello Kitty fan – these Kawaii characters, cute, fluffy and childlike, make us feel young and carefree. At a time when quiet luxury has dominated mainstream trends, Labubu charms have shocked the system; waking up fashion enthusiasts with a bold, playful punch. 'It's like a little doll bringing my inner child out,' agrees Dubai-based stylist of 15 years, Chloe Louise, who creates customised jewellery and bag charms, often from thrifted children's toys. 'Its playful, yet slightly mischievous vibe reminds me not to take things too seriously,' comments Vogue contributor Ty Gaskins. Photo: Saira Noorani 'They're unapologetic about how they look and how they make you feel,' shares Saira Noorani, who has affixed a white Labubu to her red Hermès Kelly bag. Noorani works part-time as a live selling host at Luxury Promise – a pre-loved marketplace with a dedicated hub in Japan. 'Back in Dubai and London, we couldn't keep them on the shelves. Truly – gone in a day,' she continues. 'There are three left in the Dubai office, if you're feeling lucky.' If Labubu can liven up accessories from the greatest names in luxury, it can win over even the most hesitant among us. Take the sartorial leap – the affection you develop for this little Kawaii critter might just surprise you.
