Accessory or Addition? The Labubu Boyfriend

Is there a difference between a Labubu and boyfriends who are always around? 

Last week, we asked our audience to weigh in on what they think about our self-proclaimed term, “Labubu Boyfriends.” Let us explain: 

These are the boyfriends who are perpetually around. Similar to Labubus, these boyfriends are like accessories for their girlfriends, but they don’t seem to fit right in. Maybe it’s because the girlfriend is eager to bring her man along any chance she gets, but everyone else is wondering why that man is there. 

Also, keep in mind, the Labubu doesn’t have to be physically present. The boyfriends that are the constant topic of conversation fall under this category, too. When it comes to a boyfriend, persistently calling him or texting when he’s not there–especially during a girls’ night–is giving Labubu behavior.

The funny thing is, this type of boyfriend might be just as coveted as a Labubu. Doesn’t it sound nice to have a man who is always down to come along? These are the men who serve as a comforting purse charm, who will listen to their girlfriend, and who will put her first. 

But for some, are these types of boyfriends not only hard to understand, but overrated?

Created by illustrator and toy designer Kasing Lung from Hong Kong, Labubus have gained a cult following, and the wide-eyed, grinning creature is now a recognizable purse accessory. Often it’s the women you would never expect to have one sporting a Labubu, as these purse charms are at the intersection of art, childhood nostalgia and modern folklore. 

Labubus can be seen on any kind of purse, and they often stick out like a sore thumb. There is a sense of whimsy behind the eyes of the furry little creatures, making them a statement piece with a story. However, their growing popularity has made Labubus a controversial trend amongst fashion lovers. While some will proudly clip their Labubu on their designer bag, others think they belong on a children’s backpack. 

Just like clingy boyfriends, Labubus aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Our audience agreed, although they also dug into why Labubus and boyfriends share some similarities.

One of our readers, Taylor, shared that she thrives on letting girl time be girl time and being specific about when her partner comes along. 

“I wouldn’t survive if my partner was invited to everything. But I believe space, energy and time hold different truths to that. If I’m having a girls night out, his ass is definitely not invited,” she expressed. 

She continued to share how the context for this decision is based on the value that her partner brings. She enjoys “being present in spaces that hold intention with my girls, new people I want to network with, or peers. Sometimes having my boyfriend there doesn’t amplify that space but takes away from the space being held… attendance is valuable but only if it helps elevate.”

A cool girl is likely looking for a man who will complement her. She doesn’t want someone to ask why she brought a Labubu with her. If said Labubu looks good with her outfit, then it can come along. But the same can be said for a boyfriend too; there is a time and a place and if your friends are starting to wish your boyfriend wasn’t invited all the time, then maybe it’s time to reevaluate the ways you are accessorizing. 

Picture this: a Chanel bag equates to cocktails or a night out with the girls, and a backpack or tote bag is wholesome quality time with your partner away from the girlies. Would you put a Labubu on a Chanel bag? If that’s your vice, go off… But clipped on a boring tote bag, all of the sudden your Labubu looks (and feels) like it belongs. 

When we look into the eyes of a Labubu, we can feel its clinginess. It exudes a sense of needing to belong. A Labubu is a bit of an outcast, and that energy can be translated into a behavior that is present in many codependent relationships. Those Labubu eyes are yearning for a person (or purse) to call their own.

So, when is it an acceptable time to bring a man around? Partnership and love are exciting times in everyone’s lives. However, we’ve all had to evaluate where independence starts and ends with a partner. Understanding a habit versus being mindful is key in all relationships, whether it be your friend or your partner. Are you conscious of how much time you are spending together and apart? 

Don’t get us wrong, we’re advocating for the Labubu here. Do you want to look into those eyes and feel unsettled? When you can look into its eyes and both agree that it belongs? If your boyfriend is on display like a Labubu would be, determining if he’s meant to be there or meant to be a topic is an important question to ask yourself. Spare your friends the awkwardness of being amongst the energy of a Labubu – it’s respected, it’s art, but it has a time and a place for a reason.

The consensus amongst the Curio community is that the Labubu boyfriend can come along, but only if they provide value. Maybe they’re calling the Ubers or buying a round of drinks, or maybe they’re your other half with a group of fellow couples. But if they are just there to serve as an accessory, leave them at home!