Introducing Sonny Angels, pocket companions aiding Gen Z individuals in navigating adult life's challenges
In the UK, the market for Sonny Angels remains somewhat elusive, yet dedicated collectors like Georgie have managed to source these adorable figurines from various stores such as Junior Edition in Brighton, Forbidden Planet in Leeds, Didi Inspired Gifts and Toys, Dear Jude, Blind Box Empire, and London Tree House on Portobello Road.
Sonny Angels, three-inch tall collectible dolls, have gained significant popularity among younger millennials and Gen Zers worldwide. Originating from Japan, these charming miniature dolls have become a symbol of inner child consumerism and 'retail therapy', offering a sense of mystery and excitement with each blind box figurine, much like a box of chocolates.
Each Sonny Angel is visually inspired by the Kewpie Mayonnaise baby, featuring distinct headwear and occasional clothing. Over the years, these angelic figures have evolved from supportive partners to silly little winged besties that provide smiles and a sense of well-being to fans.
The 'Hippers' collection transforms standing Sonny Angels into decorative figurines that can be stuck to various surfaces like phone cases, laptops, desks, and more. Limited series feature themes like circus, summer, candy, Halloween, and Christmas, adding a touch of seasonal charm to the collection.
Smiskis, often associated with Sonny Angels, are a line of green (and occasionally blue) glow-in-the-dark creatures that are seen as mysterious fairies that watch over you. While Georgie finds less appeal in Smiskis compared to Sonny Angels, describing them as 'underrated', they still hold a special place in the Sonny Angels universe.
For newbie collectors, the Sonny Angels starter pack comes with styling advice, including using Hippers on phone cases, headphones, waistband, pockets, and basing entire outfits on a particular angel. The Sonny Angels community also serves as a platform for emotional support among Gen Zers, according to Georgie.
Some Sonny Angels are rare and highly sought after by collectors, such as Robby, which resembles a cross between a rat and a rabbit, with a chance of 1 in every 144 figurines. The excitement of unboxing a rare Sonny Angel is a thrill that keeps collectors coming back for more.
Milo, a dedicated Sonny Angel collector, has amassed her collection from second-hand online stores and London-based Comic Con events. Sonny Angels are often collected by people who are already collectors of other trinkets like Sanrio, Tamagotchi, and Rilakkuma, making them a natural addition to any collection.
In the future, Georgie hopes to host her own Sonny Angel event in the UK for collectors to trade, buy, or sell their angels and things they make for them like clothes or necklaces. The Sonny Angels phenomenon continues to grow, with online restocks selling out within minutes and a rise in a controversial resale market on platforms like Mercari and eBay.
In conclusion, Sonny Angels' appeal lies in their delightful, collectible design with a surprise element, warm themes of love and affection, and their evolution into a beloved Japanese collectible brand with worldwide fans. Whether you're a newbie collector or a seasoned fan, the charm of Sonny Angels is undeniable.
Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts might find a unique addition to their collection with the limited edition seasonal themes of the Hippers collection, allowing fans to personalize their accessories with Sonny Angels. Entertainment-loving individuals can indulge in the thrill of unboxing a rare Sonny Angel, just like a box of chocolates, as the excitement of finding a rare figurine continues to drive the collectible market.
