How Did the Labubu Doll Become the New Global Fashion?

If you’ve seen a weird-looking doll with big teeth hanging from someone’s bag lately, you’re not alone. The Labubu doll is everywhere right now, on social media, in boutiques, on backpacks, and even at fashion events. 

What started as a small art toy from China has become one of the biggest fashion trends around the world.

So, what’s the story behind Labubu?

Labubu was created by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong-born artist. The doll comes from his book series The Monsters Trilogy, which is inspired by Nordic myths. It’s produced by a Chinese company called Pop Mart, known for making cute, collectible toys.

Labubu isn’t just any doll—it’s designed with a toothy grin and funny look that fans find both strange and adorable. It also comes with a key ring, so you can attach it to your bag, keys, or even hang it in your room.

Social media made it go viral

The real push came from unboxing videos on TikTok and Instagram. People love opening “blind boxes” of Labubu where you don’t know which version you’re getting until you open it. 

It became a fun surprise, and soon, people were showing off their dolls like they just bought a new iPhone.

It got even bigger when BLACKPINK’s Lisa showed her Labubu collection. After that, celebrities like Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, Lizzo, David Beckham, and Hailey Bieber jumped on the trend. 

That’s when Labubu turned from a toy into a fashion accessory.

Nigerians are catching on too

While no Nigerian celebrity has publicly joined the Labubu train, many Nigerians are loving the trend. TikTok influencer Kasibaby (@lifestyle_ng) proudly showed off her lemon-coloured Labubu, which she bought for ₦260,000. She joked about almost being scammed and said she might even let her two-year-old play with it.

Others, like Angela Nwosu, spent around ₦200,000 and still couldn’t figure out what was so special about it. But that’s part of the fun, it’s strange, trendy, and everyone has an opinion.

Some Nigerians have also put a funny twist on it by using old dolls or even ‘Shigidi’-style local figures to copy the trend, making it both playful and creative.

It’s not cheap—and it’s not always cute

Labubu figures can cost as little as $15 or as much as $960, depending on the size and design. The most expensive one so far? A giant human-sized Labubu sold at an auction in China for over $150,000.

Not everyone is happy, though. Some users feel cheated when they get “ugly” colours like grey instead of the rare pink ones. One TikToker even cut hers up out of frustration.

Because of how popular it is, fake versions (called “Lafufu”) have started showing up. But true fans know the real ones: soft fur, shiny eyes, peachy skin, nine tiny teeth, and the Pop Mart and Kasing Lung logos on the right foot.