Have you noticed the furry little monsters swinging from people’s bags, or blushing naked cherub babies clipped to people’s phones? Don’t worry, you’re not imagining things! These collectible figures are a trendy, new-age fashion accessory that have reigned over social media timelines and every “For You” page. The rise of Pop Mart, a Beijing toy chain, in the U.S. has fanned the flames of a booming collectible culture. According to Forbes, Pop Mart has capitalized on the trend and pivoted “from general merchandise to designer toys after checking social media to find out what collectibles young people were buying.”
The addictive craze that Pop Mart specializes in centers around “blind boxes”, sealed packages filled with a mystery figure depending on the brand selection. Their appeal lies in the plethora of potential figure variations you can collect, and the excitement comes from the uncertainty of what one will pull. Unboxing has become a vital part of the experience, fostering entire genres of blind box unboxing videos across social media.
Labubus
One of Pop Mart’s most popular blind box characters is Labubu. They’re devilishly cute, elvish monsters with pointed ears, varying colored fur, and mischievous fanged smiles. Labubus became an overnight sensation after K-pop girl group BLACKPINK’s Lisa was seen styling her bag with the figure, among others in her collection. Since then, its expressive eyes matched the envy of every collector seeking them out, and it’s not hard to see why. Their lively faces and poseable bodies are full of personality and style. With its different seasonal themes and limited-edition collaborations, the exclusivity puts collectors in a constant hunt to own one. To wear a Labubu is to display an identity or status; an embodiment of childlike whimsy and individuality that adds flair to personal style.
Sonny Angels
The blind box craze doesn’t end with Labubus. Sonny Angels, tiny, babylike cherubs defined by their signature blush and nudity, have drawn as much social media buzz. Beyond their cuteness, they symbolize the same childlike appreciation for joy and style that Labubu evokes. According to the official Sonny Angel website, “He is always by your side to make you smile. Sonny Angel provides healing moments in your everyday life.” It’s that intent at the root of these figures’ appeal. Their purpose lies in small moments of companionship and relief amidst the stresses of life. Easy-to-collect, personalized friends in the palm of your hands. It also helps that more and more celebrities have popularized the figures. For instance, Bella Hadid, in a now-deleted Instagram post, showcased an entire wall filled with Sonny Angels.
Smiskis
Another fan favorite is Smiskis, produced under the Sonny Angel umbrella. They’re small, simply designed stick figures that glow in the dark and pose in quirky, endearing ways. Smiskis extend beyond bag charms; they often act in extension to everyday life. Some variants are posed as toothbrush stands, while others act as attachments to your zipper, as it playfully pretends to hang on. They’re personalized compliments to your individual life, giving the otherwise mundane a sense of childlike play.
Ultimately, the popularity of Pop Mart, blind boxes, and other collectibles is emblematic of more than a fashion statement. They represent an unspoken expression, a visual language for childlike nostalgia and personality. The color Labubu you clip to your bag, the way someone arranges their dozens of Sonny Angels along their desk, even the way a Smiski leans on your bookstand; each personalization is a small choice of identity and aesthetic against a uniform world. A tiny piece of yourself on cute display!
What's Your Reaction?
