Has Labubu Craze Peaked? The Celeb Viral Bag Charm Is Suddenly In Stock for Just $20 on Amazon
As I walked through the crowded streets of New York Fashion Week, I couldn't help but notice a peculiar trend. Everywhere I looked, there were plush toys dangling from purses, belt loops, and backpacks – the ubiquitous Labubu had taken over the fashion scene by storm. The fuzzy, elf-like caricatures had become an unexpected status symbol, with A-listers like Dua Lipa, Kim Kardashian, and Rihanna all spotted sporting them.
But what's behind this sudden obsession? And why are these plush toys now available on Amazon for a mere $20, when just months ago collectors were paying hundreds of dollars for rare releases?
To understand the Labubu phenomenon, let's take a step back. The demand for these plush toys had reached fever pitch earlier this year, with resale sites like eBay and Depop seeing a surge in listings – often at exorbitant prices. Collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike were clamoring to get their hands on the limited-edition releases, which were being snapped up by celebrities and influencers.
But as with all good things, the hype eventually died down, leaving many wondering if the Labubu craze had peaked. And then, just in time for Amazon Prime Day, the plush toys suddenly became available – at a fraction of their previous price.
"It's been a wild ride," says Emily Chen, a fashion blogger who was one of the first to spot the trend. "I remember seeing them on Instagram and thinking they were just cute little trinkets. But then I saw how much people were paying for them online, and I thought, 'This is insane!'"
Chen's sentiments are echoed by many in the fashion industry, who attribute the Labubu phenomenon to a perfect storm of social media influence, celebrity endorsements, and limited supply.
"Social media has created this culture of FOMO – fear of missing out," explains Sarah Lee, a marketing expert. "When something becomes trendy on Instagram or TikTok, people feel pressure to get in on the action before it's too late."
But what about the economic impact? With prices plummeting from hundreds to just $20, is this a sign that the market has finally reached saturation point?
"It's not uncommon for trends to experience a correction," notes retail analyst Michael Silver. "When demand outstrips supply, prices tend to rise – but when the market becomes flooded with inventory, prices drop. It's a natural cycle."
So what does the future hold for Labubu? While some may see this as a sign that the trend has peaked, others believe it's just a temporary setback.
"I think we're seeing a shift in the way people consume fashion," says Chen. "With the rise of social media and e-commerce, trends are becoming more democratized – anyone can access them, regardless of their budget or location."
As I walked away from the crowded streets of Fashion Week, I couldn't help but wonder what's next for Labubu. Will they become a nostalgic relic of a bygone era, or will they continue to evolve and adapt to changing consumer tastes?
One thing is certain – the Labubu phenomenon has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, and its impact will be felt for months to come.
The Bottom Line: The sudden availability of Labubus on Amazon for $20 may signal a correction in the market, but it's also a testament to the ever-changing nature of consumer trends. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear – the power of social media and celebrity influence will only continue to shape the way we consume and interact with fashion.
*Based on reporting by Variety.*