Uniqlo to Launch Exclusive Labubu Collection in Singapore This September

In a much-anticipated collaboration, Uniqlo, the renowned Japanese fashion retailer, is set to launch a special collection of T-shirts and sweatshirts featuring the beloved Labubu cartoon characters in Singapore this September. This collection will consist of 14 unique styles, priced between SGD 14.90 and SGD 39.90, catering primarily to women and girls, while encouraging male customers to verify their sizes before purchase.

The Labubu characters, conceived in 2015 by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, are whimsical elf-like creatures inspired by Scandinavian folklore. Their popularity has surged globally, particularly in Singapore, where they are hailed as collectible merchandise. Pop stars including Rihanna and Dua Lipa have been spotted with Labubu dolls, which are produced by the Chinese toy company Pop Mart.

The demand for Labubu merchandise has reached staggering heights. In a recent event at Pop Mart's Ion Orchard store on June 28, approximately 160 fans lined up, some arriving as early as dawn, to acquire snack-themed Labubu dolls. Instances of long queues for limited-edition releases have become commonplace, with the last release in April 2025 drawing patrons as early as 2 AM. Furthermore, limited-edition Labubu dolls have been resold on platforms like Carousell for prices soaring up to SGD 8,000, highlighting the intense collector's market surrounding these items.

The collaboration with Uniqlo is expected to draw significant interest, as the retailer has a history of successful partnerships featuring popular animated characters and luxury designers. Previous collaborations have included well-known franchises such as Demon Slayer and partnerships with esteemed fashion figures like Jonathan Anderson.

Uniqlo has announced that it will not impose a purchasing limit on customers for this collection, indicating its anticipation of high demand. The company has previously experienced success with limited-edition releases, which have become highly sought after, often leading to counterfeit goods and black-market activities.

As the launch date approaches, the excitement surrounding the Labubu collection reflects a broader trend in consumer culture where limited-edition collaborations increasingly captivate the market, blending fashion with the allure of collectible toys. Industry observers are keen to see how this collection will perform in a competitive retail landscape, particularly among consumers who are both fashion-conscious and passionate about collectibles.