Labubu look goes mainstream in NYC as budget-friendly keychain offers affordable alternative

New York City is experiencing a wave of Labubu mania, with fans lining up before sunrise outside pop-up shops in SoHo and sprinting through Midtown as collectors trade figures like rare Pokémon. In the midst of the hype, a budget-friendly option is turning heads: a Labubu-inspired light-blue collectible keychain selling for $19.99, well below prices seen on resale platforms and far from the premium figures that have driven long lines and crowded drops.

The item is described as adorable and unmistakably Labubu-coded: pastel hues, a bug-eyed expression, and a compact form designed to be carried on a keychain or bag rather than displayed on a shelf like a full-size figure. Priced at $19.99 (regularly $26.99), it offers a no-surprise alternative to the mystery-box model that has fueled the craze, eliminating the risk of paying a high price for a figure that may not meet a buyer’s expectations. The appeal, several shoppers noted, is the vibe more than the rarity: a way to capture the aesthetic without the stress or expense of chasing a limited drop.

Observers describe the Brooklyn-to-SoHo spectacle surrounding Labubu-inspired merchandise as part of a broader hype-toy moment that blends social media buzz with real-world lines. In New York, would-be collectors have reported pre-dawn queues outside pop-ups, with crowds trading figures as if they were limited-edition sneakers or rare Pokémon cards. Midtown sprints—people racing through streets after drops—have become a common scene for those chasing the latest Labubu item. For many, the keychain provides a tangible slice of the look without requiring a full commitment to the larger, more costly collectibles.

For shoppers who want the aesthetic without the distraction of an all-in mystery-box experience, the $19.99 keychain is positioned as a practical compromise. Its compact size means it can ride along on a keyring or bag, drawing curious glances without dominating space or budget. One passerby at a pop-up complimented a tester piece and asked whether it was a Labubu proper, illustrating how easily the look can spark recognition without the steep price tag.Retailers and fans alike describe the keychain as a bridge between casual interest and devoted collecting, offering a low-stakes way to participate in the moment while keeping costs predictable. The item underscores a significant shift in how consumers engage with the Labubu craze: the emergence of affordable, everyday carry options that let fans enjoy the aesthetic without investing heavily in limited drops or mystery boxes. The reduction in financial risk also broadens the potential audience for the trend, extending its reach beyond long-standing hobbyists to casual shoppers who simply want the vibe.

As the scene around Labubu continues to evolve, the new keychain sits within a larger market for “dupe” or derivative items that mimic the beloved look while avoiding the high prices and uncertainty of primary drops. This phenomenon reflects a broader consumer behavior shift toward purchasable, reliable items that deliver the recognizable aesthetic with straightforward value. While some collectors pursue the chase and exclusivity of limited-edition releases, others prefer accessories that offer the same visual language at a fixed price. The keychain, with its light-blue hue and approachable $19.99 price point, has become a focal point for fans weighing the pros and cons of pursuit versus practicality.

For now, the item is available while supplies last, and the retailer notes that prices on the platform can change. The Labubu craze in New York shows no immediate signs of slowing—lines may shift to new pop-ups or timed drops, and social chatter around pastel, bug-eyed figures continues to fuel demand. The keychain’s introduction reflects both the enduring appeal of the Labubu look and the market’s appetite for affordable, low-commitment ways to participate in the moment. As collectors weigh their options, the city’s latest hit remains accessible enough to attract curious newcomers while still satisfying longtime fans who appreciate the aesthetic without the risk or cost of high-stakes drops.