Social media post sparks shopping madness, transforming Labubu toys to Stanley cups
In the digital age, trends can explode faster than ever before, and the recent obsession with Labubu dolls is a prime example.
Social media, with its 4.2 billion active users worldwide, has made it easier than ever for trends to spread rapidly. According to Sakshi Nath, influencers and content creators often spark these viral sensations. Farhana Bodi, an influencer herself, agrees, stating that influencers play a significant role in trend explosions.
The Labubu trend has been particularly noteworthy. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have fueled the craze for these dolls, with fans sharing unboxing videos and styling tips. Celebrities like Blackpink's Lisa, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa have been spotted with Labubu dolls, adding to the hype.
The Beijing auction in 2025 saw all 48 lots of Labubu dolls sell, raking in a total of $520,000. A giant mint-green Labubu doll even sold for $172,800.
However, as Rida Tharanaa, a content creator, points out, today's trends focus less on creating great products and more on quickly making money and then moving on to the next trend. Once the hype around a product dies down, people often move on to the next trend.
This fast-paced trend cycle can lead to overconsumption, as people are driven by the desire to be seen as fashion-forward and up-to-date with the trends. To avoid this, Tharanaa suggests asking questions like "Do I really need it?" and practicing slow consumption.
Brands should also focus on building loyalty rather than relying on short-lived hype. Milka Karaagalci, founder of the brand Kismet By Milka, agrees. While hype can drive momentum, it's important to ensure that excitement is matched by quality and meaning to build loyalty.
The fleeting nature of trends was also evident in 2017, when 19 million fidget spinners were sold. Yet, by the end of the year, they were largely forgotten.
In the UAE, Labubu dolls are priced as high as Dh1,250 for rare or bundled editions. But as the hype around these dolls begins to wane, consumers are left to question whether they are truly investing in something of lasting value, or just the latest trend.
