18 things to buy instead of a Labubu doll

The Labubu may have clawed its way into the zeitgeist with its big eyes and bad posture, but the world of absurdly adorable collectibles is much bigger than the Pop Mart plushie. The real flex isn’t owning the It gremlin, it’s knowing what else is out there. From luxury charms to offbeat high street finds that feel like inside jokes, here’s a round-up of 18 wildly curious tchotchkes to pick up instead.

Cry Baby

These cult vinyl dolls are equal parts eerie and adorable. They are for those who like their toys with side-eye sass and a storyline. Think Labubu, but emotionally available.

Hermès Rodeo PM Charm

Hand-stitched in lambskin and always sold out. They’re ponies but fashion. Hang one on your Birkin or your book tote. It hits either way.

Loewe Tomato Charm

Red, ripe and completely ridiculous. This tomato doesn’t care what season it is.

Tomato charm in classic calfskin, Loewe, ₹ 59,000

Jacquemus Le Chiquito Micro

Is it a bag? Is it a prop? No one knows—but that’s the point. Put nothing in it and still feel emotionally full.

Balenciaga Energy Bar Keyring

For those who believe in ironic luxury and snacks you can’t eat.

Coach Rexy Charm

It’s a dinosaur. It’s Coach. It’s delightfully absurd, which is exactly why it works.

Ganni Coin Purse

A fruit. A PSA. A conversation starter. Labubu who?

Kiko Kostadinov Leather Pouch

Suspiciously nostalgic. Dangerously chic.

Multicolor Orb Coin Pouch, Kiko Kostadinov, ₹ 25,788

Sanrio Kuromi Plush

Cynical, and cuter than a Labubu on a good day.

Maison Kitsuné Fox Head Keyring

High-key adorable and low-key flex.

JW Anderson Frog Keyring

A frog reduced to its essence. Feels like line art, reads like a mood.

Tokidoki x Hello Kitty Figurine

A rave in 3 inches. Collect them all or spiral trying.

Louis Vuitton Vivienne Doll

LV’s take on “my imaginary friend has a trust fund”.

Be@rbrick Figure

One word: status. Preferably bought in Japan or from someone who collects streetwear like fine wine.

Bimba Y Lola Crochet Charm

Carnivorous and adorable, like something your eco-feminist flatmate crocheted during a break-up.

Anya Hindmarch Purse Charm

Utterly unnecessary. Entirely cute. The perfect kind of tchotchke.

Diesel Denim Keychain

Grungy, pouty and shaped like emotional fortitude. Perfect for your keys and situationship.

Miu Miu Ballet Bag Charm

Balletcore in one dainty flex. It’s a toeshoe for your bag/keys.

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