If you’ve ever seen a sleek, blocky bear-shaped figure standing stylishly in someone’s home or studio, you’ve probably just discovered a Bearbricks. These collectible designer toys, produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy, have taken the world by storm—especially in France, where fashion, art, and culture collide in stunning harmony.
Bearbricks are not ordinary toys. They’re iconic pieces of art. With collaborations from world-famous brands like Chanel, Bape, and artists like KAWS, the Bearbrick universe blends pop culture, high fashion, and creative expression. From the Bape Bearbrick 1000 to the rare and stunning Coco Chanel Bearbrick, and of course the iconic Kaws Bearbrick, these collectibles are treasured by art lovers and style-setters alike.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned collector, or just intrigued by the buzz, this guide will walk you through the most iconic Bearbrick designs and where to buy them—especially if you’re based in France.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbricks (also spelled BE@RBRICK) are collectible figures made by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. Each figure resembles a minimalist bear and comes in various sizes, with the number representing its scale—most popularly 100%, 400%, and 1000%.
While the toy’s form is simple, what makes each Bearbrick special is the design. Collaborations span art, fashion, film, streetwear, and even music, making these figures miniature canvases of culture.
From limited-edition streetwear drops to museum-worthy art pieces, Bearbricks hold a unique space where collectibles meet contemporary art. In France, they are often displayed in fashion boutiques, homes of design lovers, and art galleries alike.
Why Are Bearbricks So Popular in France?
France has long been at the center of luxury fashion and art. The rise of Bearbricks perfectly aligns with this passion for aesthetic design and cultural value. These toys are no longer just novelties—they are part of modern décor, art investment, and creative identity.
Many French collectors see Bearbricks as the perfect mix of East-meets-West innovation, especially when adorned with names like Coco Chanel or collaborations with Parisian artists and designers.
Let’s explore three of the most coveted designs:
1. Bape Bearbrick 1000
When streetwear royalty A Bathing Ape (BAPE) teamed up with Medicom Toy, the results were instant classics. The Bape Bearbrick 1000 is one of the largest sizes available—standing roughly 70 cm tall—and features BAPE’s signature camouflage and design aesthetics.
Key Features:
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Bold use of color and BAPE camo prints
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Often part of highly limited drops
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Some versions include glow-in-the-dark or metallic finishes
Why Collectors Love It:
The Bape Bearbrick 1000 is a perfect fusion of streetwear culture and collectible art. It’s oversized, eye-catching, and speaks directly to fans of exclusive, high-end urban fashion.
In France, where BAPE has a loyal following, this Bearbrick often becomes the centerpiece of sneaker rooms and fashion-inspired interiors.
2. Coco Chanel Bearbrick
One of the most elegant designs ever released, the Coco Chanel Bearbrick is a symbol of Parisian luxury and timeless fashion. Whether in all black with pearls or stylized after Chanel’s iconic No. 5 perfume, these Bearbricks scream sophistication.
Key Features:
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Elegant black-and-white color palettes
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Design references to classic Chanel suits, logos, and perfume
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Rare and highly valuable in resale markets
Why Collectors Love It:
The Coco Chanel Bearbrick is particularly beloved in France—not just for its local roots, but for its fashion-forward design. It’s often treated less like a toy and more like a sculpture or statement piece, placed in luxury spaces, boutiques, and high-end homes.
3. Kaws Bearbrick
Arguably one of the most sought-after collaborations, the Kaws Bearbrick combines the urban influence of the American artist KAWS with the sleek Bearbrick silhouette. Known for his “X” eyes and reinterpretation of pop culture icons, KAWS brings a powerful visual punch to the Bearbrick lineup.
Key Features:
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Bold designs with signature KAWS motifs
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Variants include colorways in gray, pink, black, and more
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Available in multiple sizes, including 400% and 1000%
Why Collectors Love It:
In France, KAWS is widely recognized and celebrated for his exhibitions at major museums like the Musée d’Art Moderne and his global collaborations. A Kaws Bearbrick is more than a toy—it’s a collector’s dream, and a piece of art history in physical form.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in France
If you’re looking to start or grow your Coco Chanel Bearbrick collection, knowing where to shop is crucial. Here are the best options for buying Bearbricks in France:
Specialty Designer Toy Stores
Cities like Paris and Lyon host several stores that carry Bearbricks. These are often found in high-end streetwear shops or toy stores focused on art collectibles.
Luxury Fashion Boutiques
Some fashion boutiques stock limited-edition Bearbricks, especially when tied to a brand collaboration like Chanel or Bape.
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like StockX, Grailed, and even French resellers like Vinted and Leboncoin occasionally list Bearbricks. Look for verified sellers with high ratings.
Pop-up Art and Fashion Events
Limited releases are often sold during art shows, fashion weeks, or pop-up events. Following Bearbrick fan pages or Instagram accounts dedicated to designer toys in France will help you stay ahead of drops.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks
With their growing popularity, counterfeit Bearbricks have unfortunately become more common. Here’s how to spot the real deal:
Check the Box Details
Authentic Bearbricks come with branded packaging that includes official Medicom logos, item numbers, and release information. Counterfeit boxes often look cheap or lack printing details.
Inspect the Paint Quality
Genuine Bearbricks are known for sharp, clean lines. Fake versions often have blurry graphics, smudged paint, or poor color accuracy.
Look at the Joints
Bearbricks have very specific construction. The arms and legs move smoothly. If your figure feels stiff or flimsy, it might be a fake.
Verify the Collaboration
Cross-check the design with official announcements. If you can’t find a record of the specific Bape Bearbrick 1000, Coco Chanel Bearbrick, or Kaws Bearbrick on trusted collector forums or news outlets, be cautious.
Use Trusted Marketplaces
Always purchase from verified sellers with return policies or authentication services. If the price seems too good to be true—it probably is.
FAQs About Bearbricks
What sizes do Bearbricks come in?
Bearbricks are produced in multiple sizes:
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100% (7 cm)
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400% (28 cm)
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1000% (70 cm)
Some limited series also include 200%, 50%, and even keychain formats.
Are Bearbricks toys or art?
They’re technically both. Originally considered designer toys, Bearbricks have evolved into collectible art pieces with cultural significance. Many collectors in France display them as décor or invest in them as art assets.
Are Bearbricks a good investment?
Yes, especially rare collaborations like the Coco Chanel Bearbrick or Kaws Bearbrick. Prices can increase significantly over time. However, like all collectibles, market trends can vary.
How often are new Bearbricks released?
Medicom Toy releases new Bearbricks several times a year through themed series and special collaborations. Following official news or collector communities is the best way to keep up with new drops.
Can I buy Bearbricks in France without importing?
Yes, many local stores and resellers offer Bearbricks within France. You can find them in specialty boutiques, online platforms, and occasionally in luxury concept stores.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re captivated by the edgy Bape Bearbrick 1000, the elegance of the Coco Chanel Bearbrick, or the artistic energy of the Kaws Bearbrick, one thing is clear—Bearbricks are more than just collectibles. They represent a lifestyle, a passion for design, and a deep appreciation for where fashion and art meet.
For collectors in France, the Bearbrick scene offers endless inspiration, rarity, and style. Start your collection wisely, know where to buy authentic pieces, and enjoy owning one of the most iconic design objects of our time.
