A new dating red flag is trending online, and it has nothing to do with texting habits or relationship history. Instead, it’s about a toy – specifically, a small, furry collectible known as a Labubu.
The rise of these gremlin-like dolls, created by the designer toy brand POP MART, has sparked significant debate across social media platforms. While Gen Zers embrace Labubu collecting as a quirky hobby, others argue that it reflects poorly on an individual’s maturity, financial responsibility, and dating appeal.
What are Labubus?
Labubus are toys known for their distinct appearance – brightly colored, furry bodies, jagged teeth, and mischievous expressions. Their design blends elements of creepy and cute, making them stand out among collectible toys.
Initially launched in Hong Kong, Labubus have gained global popularity through social media, especially on TikTok, where the hashtag #Labubu has amassed over two million posts.
Labubus are typically sold in blind boxes and limited drops, creating high demand and inflated resale prices. Some rare editions are sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, with collectors competing in restocks and flash sales to secure new additions.
The dating controversy
As Labubus grow in popularity, so does skepticism about what they represent – particularly in the world of dating. Some users online have labeled adult Labubu collectors as “walking red flags,” a claim that has now caught the attention of psychologists and relationship experts.
Let’s unpack some of these red flags.
1. Perceived immaturity
According to Dr. Mindy DeSeta, a dating expert, Labubu ownership can spark subconscious biases, especially on first dates, where first impressions – and “the accessories you choose can send signals – intended or not – about who you are.”
“Labubus are often misunderstood and quickly labeled as ‘dolls,’ which can spark subconscious judgments about a person’s maturity and life priorities,” Dr. DeSeta told Vice.
She added that “anything that hints at immaturity can become a subtle red flag.
2. Impression of being easily influenced
Dr. DeSeta also notes that the Labubu trend owes much of its success to viral TikTok videos and celebrity endorsements. As a result, some may interpret Labubu collectors as individuals who follow trends rather than make independent choices.
“Jumping on this viral craze could signal to your date that you’re easily swayed by whatever’s trending on your feed,” she said, explaining that this perception can raise concerns about authenticity and decision-making.
3. Financial concerns
Labubu collecting is not a low-cost hobby. Due to limited availability, collectors often pay inflated prices or resort to renting rare figures to display online.
“Dropping serious cash on collectible keychains can signal to your date that you might be financially impulsive or irresponsible,” Dr. DeSeta said, suggesting that it may signal a lack of financial discipline.
4. Signals superficiality
Labubus are often styled with designer outfits and shown off on social media, creating the impression of curated appearances and trend-chasing behavior.
“Many collectors love flaunting their rare finds and pairing them with designer outfits to show off their Labubus,” DeSeta said. “While this can be fun, it might backfire in dating by giving off high-maintenance or superficial vibes. This could make your date question whether you’re relationship material or just someone who needs to be constantly impressed.”
5. Questionable time investment
Acquiring rare Labubus often involves waiting in long queues, monitoring restocks, and rearranging schedules to secure blind boxes – activities that require significant time and planning.
“Scoring one requires strategy, research, and often rearranging your schedule around drop times and locations,” the doctor said. “If your date finds out you spent hours waiting in line or obsessively refreshing websites for a blind box, they might be put off. Devoting so much effort to a trend could raise questions about your priorities and emotional availability.”
As with many dating “red flags,” context matters. But in an era where first impressions often come from viral posts and profile pictures, even a collectible toy can influence romantic prospects.
What unusual dating red flags do you have? Please share your thoughts with us and then share this story so we can hear from others!
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