Kawaii culture thrives as collectors embrace cute aesthetics in fashion and art

Kawaiiphile, a term combining the Japanese word for cute and a lover of such aesthetics, highlights the enduring appeal of kawaii culture. This trend, rooted in Japanese cartoons and toys since the 1960s, has seen a resurgence among adults. Recent developments include the popularity of characters like Labubu, designed by Kasing Lung, which gained attention after being spotted with celebrities. The kawaii-core lifestyle has led to a growing community of collectors and enthusiasts sharing their experiences on social media. Events like the Louis Vuitton x Murakami pop-up in Singapore showcase the cultural significance of kawaii. Artists and designers continue to innovate within this aesthetic, blending nostalgia with contemporary art and fashion.