FLASH watches and expensive handbags used to be the go-to status symbols.
But now David Beckham and Dua Lipa are among many stars showing off strange fluffy creatures on keychains.
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With their bunny ears and creepy smiles, Labubu dolls have surged in popularity since being spotted on the bags of celebrities including Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Olivia Attwood and Gemma Collins.
Created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the vinyl figures are sold in £17.50 “blind boxes” — so fans do not know which version they are getting.
Former England captain David revealed this week that his daughter Harper, 13, had bought him one, showing off a snap of a rare “secret” edition character.
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Kim posted a shot of her collection, while former Love Island star Olivia went further by having a Labubu-themed birthday party.
Rihanna was also pictured sporting one on a Louis Vuitton handbag in LA.
And Towie favourite Gemma declared she’s “obsessed”, adding: “It’s all about the Labubu.”
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Billionaire monster man
LABUBU is the brainchild of artist Kasing Lung, who was raised in the Netherlands.
He is now worth an estimated £12.8billion after writing three picture books in 2015, featuring magical creatures named The Monsters.
Chinese retailer Pop Mart’s site reads: “The most prominent was Labubu, a small monster with high, pointed ears and serrated teeth.”
Pop Mart saw sales more than double last year. A spokesman said: “This isn’t just about ‘toys’, but a collectible pop culture movement.”
Buyers are only allowed to purchase limited amounts. There are also “secret edition” dolls – with rarer characters re-sold on third-party websites for up to £1,000.
Last week Pop Mart – which has 16 stores across the UK – paused in-store sales to ensure the “safety and comfort” of shoppers following chaotic long queues outside shops.
