It started with Lisa from BLACKPINK clipping a Labubu to her Hermès Birkin. Within weeks, the Labubu bag charm became the most searched accessory trend of 2025—and in 2026, it shows no signs of slowing down. Here is why a $15 plush toy is now a luxury fashion statement.
How It Started
In mid-2024, Lisa was photographed at Bangkok airport with a Labubu "The Monsters" plush clipped to her bag. The image went viral on Weibo, Instagram, and TikTok simultaneously. Within 48 hours, the specific Labubu variant sold out globally. Within a week, aftermarket prices hit 10× retail.
But the trend did not die with the news cycle. It evolved. Fashion influencers started pairing different Labubu variants with specific bag colors. Collectors began curating "bag charm rotations" the way sneakerheads rotate shoes. The plush became a fashion accessory with collectible depth.
Why It Works
- Price accessibility: A $15 charm on a $3,000 bag creates an interesting contrast that signals personality over pure wealth.
- Conversation starter: People ask about the Labubu. It is an instant social connector.
- Customization: With dozens of variants, your bag charm is uniquely yours. No two collectors have the same rotation.
- Cross-cultural appeal: The trend bridges K-pop, Chinese pop culture, and Western fashion in a way few accessories can.
Best Labubu for Bag Charms
- The Monsters Tasty Macarons series: Pastel colors that pair with neutral bags. The most popular entry point.
- Have a Seat series: Compact size, sturdy clip, and the sitting pose looks natural on a bag handle.
- Zimomo plush charms: Softer, more tactile than vinyl. Better for everyday use.
Beyond Labubu: Other Bag Charm Options
The trend has expanded beyond Pop Mart. Independent plush brands like Labubu Box offer unique designs that stand out from the Labubu crowd. If everyone at your office has a Labubu, an independent plush charm is how you differentiate.