If you’re a fan of designer toys, street culture, or contemporary art, then chances are you’ve already encountered the world of Bearbricks. These highly stylized, collectible bear-shaped figures have become iconic in pop culture, fashion, and design communities worldwide—including in France. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this article is your ultimate guide to discovering the best Bearbricks, including the rare and coveted Bape Bearbrick 1000, Coco Chanel Bearbrick, and Kaws Bearbrick.
Let’s explore why Bearbricks are such a big deal, where you can find them in France, and how to make sure you’re buying an authentic piece.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbricks (also styled as BE@RBRICK) are collectible figures designed and produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. The name is a mash-up of “bear” and “brick,” referencing their bear-like shape and modular, LEGO-like design.
They come in various sizes, with the 1000% Bearbrick (standing about 70 cm tall) being the most impressive and sought-after by collectors. What makes them so appealing? It’s the fusion of art, fashion, and play—each Bearbrick is a canvas for unique collaborations with designers, brands, and artists.
In recent years, they’ve grown in popularity across France, appearing in galleries, concept stores, and even luxury homes.
Why Bearbricks Are So Popular in France
France has always had a rich appreciation for both fine art and fashion. Bearbricks blend those two worlds effortlessly. They’re not just toys; they’re miniature sculptures. In cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, they’ve become staple pieces in design-forward homes and high-fashion boutiques.
Collectors in France often treat Bearbricks as art investments. Limited editions, rare designs, and big-name collaborations make them valuable and deeply personal.
Top Bearbrick Designs You Should Know
Let’s take a closer look at three of the most iconic Bearbricks in the collector community: Bape Bearbrick 1000, Coco Chanel Bearbrick, and Kaws Bearbrick. Each brings its own unique story and aesthetic appeal.
1. Bape Bearbrick 1000
The Bape Bearbrick 1000 is one of the most hyped pieces in streetwear and toy-collecting culture. A collaboration between Bearbrick and A Bathing Ape (BAPE)—a Japanese streetwear brand known for its camo patterns and shark hoodies—this Bearbrick screams exclusivity.
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Design: It features BAPE’s signature camo prints and often incorporates bold logos and street motifs.
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Why it’s special: The Bape Bearbrick 1000 is not only large in size but big in demand. It often sells out in minutes and becomes a centerpiece in any serious collection.
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Value: Resale prices can climb into the thousands of euros depending on the edition and condition.
2. Coco Chanel Bearbrick
Luxury meets pop art in the stunning Coco Chanel Bearbrick editions. These Bearbricks are a tribute to the iconic French fashion house and its founder.
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Design: Dressed in the style of Chanel’s classic black-and-white aesthetics, some even include faux pearls and miniature accessories, capturing the essence of Chanel couture.
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Why it’s special: It represents the perfect blend of fashion and collectible art, making it a favorite among both fashion lovers and art collectors in France.
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Cultural Relevance: Chanel is a beloved French brand, and the Bearbrick edition has a unique local appeal.
3. Kaws Bearbrick
Perhaps the most artistically important Bearbrick collab, Kaws Bearbricks are designed by Brian Donnelly, the American artist better known as KAWS. His bold, graphic style has made his Bearbricks some of the most valuable on the market.
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Design: Often featuring the famous “X” eyes and skull motifs that KAWS is known for.
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Why it’s special: KAWS has collaborated with major names like Nike, Dior, and Uniqlo, and his Bearbrick editions carry that same pop-culture prestige.
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Collectible Value: Some editions have sold for tens of thousands of euros at auctions and private sales.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in France
Buying Bearbricks in France can be both thrilling and challenging. Because of their limited nature and global demand, you’ll need to know where to look.
1. Specialty Toy Stores and Art Collectible Shops
Some high-end designer toy stores in Paris and major cities carry Bearbricks. These include:
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Concept stores like Colette (if still active via pop-ups or collabs)
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High-fashion boutiques that stock streetwear collectibles
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Designer toy stores in Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés
2. Art Galleries and Designer Showrooms
Some Bearbricks, especially the artist collaborations, appear in contemporary art galleries or design showrooms. They are often displayed as statement pieces and sometimes available for purchase.
3. Online Platforms and Resellers
If you’re not near a physical store, the internet is your best friend. Some top options include:
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Resale platforms like StockX, Grailed, and eBay
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High-end fashion marketplaces like Farfetch and SSENSE (occasionally)
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Private Facebook groups and Instagram pages focused on Bearbrick trading
Tip: Always vet your sellers and read reviews to avoid counterfeits.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks
With great hype comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to authenticity. Fake Bearbricks flood the market, and it’s essential to know how to spot a real one.
Here’s how to legit check your Bearbrick:
1. Examine the Packaging
Real Bearbricks come in high-quality boxes or blister packs, often with branded security seals. Poor printing, pixelated logos, or weak packaging are red flags.
2. Inspect the Material
Authentic Bearbricks are made from solid, smooth plastic with clean joints. Cheap fakes may feel light, flimsy, or have uneven color.
3. Check the Logos
Legit Bearbricks always feature Medicom Toy branding and a © stamp on the back. Some also include collaborative brand logos—check placement, spelling, and print quality.
4. Research the Edition
Each Bearbrick release is documented online. If you’re unsure about a piece, search for its release history. If your version doesn’t match any known drop, it might be fake.
5. Buy from Verified Sellers
Reputable platforms often verify items before resale. Use them over unverified sources or street vendors.
Common Questions About Bearbricks
What is a Bearbrick?
A Bearbrick is a collectible toy figure designed by Medicom Toy, shaped like a stylized bear and used as a canvas for artistic, fashion, and cultural collaborations.
Why are Bearbricks so expensive?
Limited releases, big-name collaborations, and global demand make Bearbricks highly valuable. The larger the size and the rarer the edition, the higher the price.
How tall is a 1000% Bearbrick?
A 1000% Bearbrick stands about 70 cm (roughly 27.5 inches) tall, making it a popular display piece for collectors.
Are Bearbricks a good investment?
Yes—especially rare editions like Kaws Bearbrick, Bape Bearbrick 1000, and Coco Chanel Bearbrick. Many increase in value over time and are considered collectible art.
Can you buy Bearbricks in France?
Absolutely. France has a growing community of Bearbrick collectors, and you can find them in select boutiques, art galleries, and through trusted online resellers.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Bearbrick Collection Today
Whether you’re drawn to the bold graphics of a Bape Bearbrick 1000, the elegance of a Coco Chanel Bearbrick, or the cultural prestige of a Kaws Bearbrick, one thing is clear: Bearbricks are more than toys—they’re art, fashion, and identity wrapped into a single figure.
In France, where culture, creativity, and design are deeply valued, Bearbricks are a natural fit. They belong on bookshelves, in art galleries, and proudly on display in homes that appreciate style and story.
So, if you’re ready to enter the world of Bearbrick collecting, start with what speaks to you—just be sure to buy smart, buy authentic, and above all, buy what you love.
