Tag Archives: pop culture

LEGO’s Star Trek Turns 60 Into 1,701 Pieces of Pure Nostalgia

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The moment LEGO dropped its first Star Trek set last year, fans knew the brand was going deeper. The NCC-1701-D from The Next Generation was a gorgeous, sweeping display piece, the kind you put on a shelf and let dominate a room. But a significant portion of the fanbase was still holding out for the original. Kirk’s ship. Spock’s ship. The one that launched the whole franchise in 1966 and spent decades earning its place in the cultural canon. That wait is officially over.

LEGO’s second Star Trek set is the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge (set 11385), a 1,701-piece recreation of two of the original series’ most recognizable spaces: the bridge and the transporter room. The piece count is absolutely not a coincidence. It’s a deliberate nod to the ship’s registry number, NCC-1701, and it’s the kind of design decision that signals this set was built for people who actually love the source material, not just casual shoppers looking for a pop culture novelty. The set retails for $199.99 and goes on sale September 1, 2026, landing squarely within Star Trek’s 60th anniversary celebrations. Pre-orders opened July 23, and given how quickly the first LEGO Star Trek set moved out of stock, sitting on this one feels like taking an unnecessary gamble.

Designer: LEGO

Beyond the appeal of seeing the Enterprise bridge rendered in bricks, what makes this set genuinely compelling is the thought behind the interactive elements. You can rock the captain’s chair to simulate warp turbulence or the impact of a space battle. You can turn a dial to beam crew members from the transporter pads. You can push a lever to open the turbo lift doors. The transporter feature in particular, where minifigures appear to gradually materialize or dissolve as you turn the dial, is a clever mechanical solution that a less thoughtful product team would have skipped entirely. These features aren’t gimmicks. They’re the details that turn a shelf piece into an experience.

The minifigure roster covers the full original bridge crew: Kirk, Spock, Uhura, Sulu, McCoy, Chekov, Christine Chapel, and Scotty. All eight. That matters more than it sounds, because a lot of licensed collector sets give you the headline names and quietly omit everyone else. Having the complete team in one box is a statement of intent, and it means the set is immediately display-ready without hunting down additional figures.

The accessories are equally considered. Spock’s harp, two Vulcan Lirpas, a Trident Scanner, four phasers rendered with an all-new LEGO mold element, printed Starfleet communicator tiles, and four tribbles. The tribbles alone are going to land hard for anyone with a soft spot for “The Trouble with Tribbles.” None of this feels like padding. It feels like someone who genuinely loves this show was sitting in that design meeting, pushing for one more detail.

The viewscreen on the bridge displays a Klingon warrior, anchoring the whole build in mid-mission tension. The scene feels caught in the middle of something. At 57cm wide and 34cm deep, it’s a serious piece of real estate that fits neatly into LEGO’s growing adult-focused Icons line. LEGO has been leaning into this demographic for years now, and the bet keeps paying off. Their most loyal buyers are adults who grew up with these stories and want something physical and well-crafted to hold onto them.

The September 1 release date is worth noting. Star Trek premiered on September 8, 1966, and this year’s 60th anniversary is a genuine milestone for the franchise. Dropping the original Enterprise bridge set in that same month is deliberate, and it works as both a marketing play and a proper celebration.

At $199.99, this set earns every penny. It’s equal parts nostalgia and craftsmanship, with enough interactive detail to keep the build interesting long after the box is open. For sixty years, the Enterprise has been a symbol of curiosity and ambition. LEGO built something worthy of that legacy.

The post LEGO’s Star Trek Turns 60 Into 1,701 Pieces of Pure Nostalgia first appeared on Yanko Design.

LEGO Just Built the X-Files Set Every ’90s Fan Always Wanted

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During the mid-’90s to the early 2000s, all my friends knew that you couldn’t disturb me on Thursday nights because I was glued to my television set, watching The X-Files. I was so absorbed in the series’ mythology, the strange cases of the week, and all things alien during those years, even though I lived in a country where those monsters didn’t really exist (we had our own monsters, of course). Thinking about that era brings a certain sense of nostalgia and a longing for those kinds of TV series in this age of streaming.

If you’re of that certain generation, then this newest LEGO build birthed from the Ideas factory would make you absolutely delirious. For those unfamiliar, LEGO Ideas is a fan-first initiative where enthusiasts submit concepts that, once they gain enough votes and approval, become officially produced sets, and The X-Files Set #21369 is one that clearly earned its place. This almost 1,500-piece set lets you relive those days when we went on vicarious adventures with the unconventional FBI Agent Fox Mulder and the smart but skeptical Dr. Dana Scully, and all the aliens and monsters they encountered along the way.

Designer: LEGO

This set, which is obviously meant for grown-ups given its scale and subject matter, features three distinct scenes. You have a detailed replica of Mulder’s iconic basement office, a forest clearing scene straight out of one of their paranormal investigations, and a hovering UFO to complete the eerie atmosphere of the build. You can display the office and the forest separately, or put all of them together as one grand set. And if you act quickly, purchasing the set between August 1–10, 2026 will also net you a bonus Scully’s Lab set, a recreation of the classroom lab at the FBI National Academy, complete with a Scully minifigure in her lab coat and scrubs.

The set includes eight minifigures that will be instantly familiar to faithful viewers of The X-Files. Aside from Mulder and Scully, of course, you have their beleaguered boss Assistant Director Walter Skinner, the infamous Cigarette-Smoking Man, the mysterious informant Mr. X, villainous henchman Alex Krycek, one of their classic monsters-of-the-week The Flukeman, and a grey alien. There are also several Easter eggs and authentic details packed into the build, including the “I Want to Believe” poster, a “The Truth Is Out There” tile, pencils stuck in the ceiling and sunflower seeds (two of Mulder’s most iconic habits), and an X-Files dossier.

What makes this set even more special is its origin story. The X-Files (21369) was chosen as the winner of LEGO’s “Build Your Nostalgia – 90s Throwback!” fan design challenge, meaning this build began as a dream submitted by a devoted fan before making its way to store shelves. It’s a love letter from one generation of fans to another, and that passion clearly shows in every carefully crafted detail. Even Gillian Anderson herself got in on the fun, starring in a cinematic mini-film reveal where she essentially steps into Scully’s shoes one more time, uncovering the LEGO set brick by brick.

Just thinking about building such a set brings me back to the days when I would eagerly devour everything I could about The X-Files universe, the fan sites, the collectibles, the episode guides dog-eared from obsessive rereading. This LEGO Ideas build would definitely appeal to big nerds (and I mean that lovingly) and anyone who appreciates the insane attention to detail given to this trip down nostalgia lane. At $199.99, it’s an investment, but for a set of this caliber, packed with character, memory, and the kind of Easter eggs only true fans will catch, it feels absolutely worth every cent. Whether you’re building it solo on a quiet weekend or proudly displaying it on a shelf, The X-Files LEGO set is a beautiful reminder that the best stories never really leave us. The truth is out there, and apparently, so are the bricks.

The post LEGO Just Built the X-Files Set Every ’90s Fan Always Wanted first appeared on Yanko Design.

LEGO Just Built the E.T. Every 80s Kid Always Wanted

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If you’re of a certain age or generation, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is probably part of your childhood (or adulthood). It’s one of the most popular sci-fi movies to this day, and E.T. itself is one of the most beloved aliens in movie history. There has been renewed interest in it lately because director Steven Spielberg went back to his alien roots with his latest movie, Disclosure. So now is probably the perfect time to release a new LEGO build featuring our favorite big-eyed extra-terrestrial who just wants to phone home.

What started out as a fan-born creation from LEGO Ideas is now produced by LEGO. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (21370) is a 1,226-piece alien figure designed primarily for adults, though there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying the build alongside your kids. It is a highly posable figure and comes with iconic accessories to help you re-live some of the classic scenes from the movie, or come up with your own scenes to let out your inner alien creativity. In other words, it truly is a set that the whole family can enjoy together.

Designer: LEGO

After you’ve finished building your very own E.T., you will be able to move its head up and down and even rotate it 360 degrees. You can also open and close its mouth and adjust its arms, wrists, and fingers, moving it whichever way you like. And of course, how can we not have that iconic forefinger pointing pose? There’s also a switch at the back for the light brick so you can make E.T.’s heart glow, just like in the movie.

The details of this build are particularly interesting, as you can see the wrinkles all over his body, and he has those distinctively long and spindly arms. Even the face is remarkably expressive, thanks to the clever use of offset curves and the printed eyes. The set also comes with a pot of sunflowers so you can recreate some of the most iconic scenes, including the tearjerking moment of him returning to his home planet, holding the pot as a fond remembrance of his time on Earth.

When it comes to size, this figure is no small feat. The finished build stands over 9.5 inches (24 cm) tall, 8.5 inches (21 cm) wide, and 6 inches (15 cm) deep, making it an impressive centerpiece worthy of any shelf, bookcase, or display cabinet. With 1,226 pieces packaged across nine bags and a 142-page instruction manual, the building experience itself is just as rewarding as the finished product. LEGO also offers step-by-step 3D building instructions through the LEGO Builder app, where you can zoom in, rotate the model, and track your progress as you go. Whether you’re a seasoned brick builder or a complete first-timer, the process is designed to be immersive, enjoyable, and surprisingly therapeutic.

What makes this set even more special is its origin story. Like all LEGO Ideas sets, this one started as a fan submission, dreamed up by a passionate LEGO enthusiast, voted on by the global community, and then brought to life by the LEGO design team. That community-driven journey gives this set an extra layer of heart, which feels incredibly fitting for a tribute to one of cinema’s most emotional characters. And since E.T. hasn’t appeared in LEGO form since 2016, this release is a long-awaited celebration that collectors absolutely won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a lifelong E.T. fan, an avid LEGO collector, or simply searching for a meaningful and nostalgic gift for yourself or a loved one, the LEGO Ideas E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (21370) is worth every penny of its $139.99 price tag. It’s part toy, part art piece, and all heart, quite literally given that glowing chest. This is the kind of set that doesn’t just sit on a shelf; it sparks conversations, brings back cherished memories, and reminds you why you fell in love with that little alien all those years ago. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (21370) launches on August 1, 2026. Don’t miss your chance to finally bring him home.

The post LEGO Just Built the E.T. Every 80s Kid Always Wanted first appeared on Yanko Design.

KPop Demon Hunters’ First LEGO Set Is the Duo We Didn’t Expect

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It’s been months since LEGO first announced that they were releasing KPop Demon Hunters sets, but we haven’t heard anything new, until now. The first of what we assume will be multiple sets will finally be arriving this summer, and surprisingly, it doesn’t feature the main characters of the animated global hit. Instead, the spotlight goes to two breakout characters that fans absolutely loved, even though they didn’t have a single spoken line: the magical tiger and his loyal bird companion.

The Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird set brings the beloved “pets” to LEGO life, letting kids and grown-ups alike assemble their favorite animated duo. It’s been about a year since Netflix released the surprise hit that captured the hearts and playlists of fans everywhere, so it’s only fitting that we’re finally getting the first build. While plenty of fans were hoping for Huntrix- or Saja Boys-focused sets, this one is undeniably adorable and will be a treat for both devoted KPop Demon Hunters fans and lovers of eye-catching LEGO builds in general.

Designer: LEGO

This build is recommended for kids 9 and above, which naturally includes the passionate adult fan base the movie has earned. With 825 pieces, it’s a manageable build that won’t overwhelm beginners while still offering enough complexity to keep experienced builders engaged. For Derpy Tiger, you can choose between two different expressions: have him sport his signature goofy grin or let him deliver a love note on his tongue, just like he did when passing important messages between Rumi and Jinu. The build also features several movable parts, including Derpy’s head, legs, and paws, as well as the magpie’s rotating neck and posable feet, so you can truly bring the characters’ personalities to life and pose them exactly the way you like. For those who prefer digital instructions, the set is also compatible with the LEGO Builder app, where you can zoom in, rotate in 3D, and track your progress as you go.

You also get a handful of accessories to help recreate some of the most iconic scenes featuring the two magical animals. The set includes two love notes and the flowerpot that triggered Derpy’s now-legendary OCD moment as it kept tipping over, a detail that will immediately bring a smile to any devoted fan’s face. These accessories can be tucked away in a hidden compartment inside Derpy’s head, a charming little Easter egg for builders to discover. The set measures over 8.5 in. (21 cm) high, 6 in. (15 cm) long, and 6 in. (15 cm) wide, and that’s with Sussie perched right on top of Derpy’s head, exactly where you’d expect to find her in the movie anyway.

Priced at $69.99, the Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird set is available for pre-order now and is set to ship starting August 1, 2026. For a build packed with this much detail and charm, the price feels more than reasonable, especially when you factor in the movie-accurate accessories and the dual-expression feature that gives the set real replay value. Just note that LEGO has placed a limit of 3 per household on this one, which only adds to its collectible appeal. Whether you’re picking it up for a young fan in your life or treating yourself to a piece of KPop Demon Hunters history, this set delivers on both the play and display front.

As the very first LEGO set from the KPop Demon Hunters line, it also signals exciting things to come. If this is how LEGO is kicking things off, with fan-favorite side characters, clever hidden details, and a display-worthy design, then future sets are going to be worth every bit of the wait. Here’s hoping that a Huntrix or Saja Boys set is already in the works, because if the demand for this one is any indication, the KPop Demon Hunters x LEGO collaboration is only just getting started. Consider this your sign to go ahead and hit that pre-order button.

The post KPop Demon Hunters’ First LEGO Set Is the Duo We Didn’t Expect first appeared on Yanko Design.

This 1,048-Piece Grogu LEGO Set Is Perfect Movie Hype

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There’s something universally irresistible about Baby Yoda, or as the purists insist we call him, Grogu. Those enormous eyes, the tiny green hands, that perfectly timed head tilt. We’ve missed seeing the little green guy on our screens but The Mandalorian and Grogu arriving in theaters later this year to solve that problem. There’s no better time to celebrate everyone’s favorite Force-sensitive toddler than with LEGO’s Grogu with Hover Pram set. This 1,048-piece buildable figure has become one of the most beloved Star Wars collectibles on the market, and it’s easy to see why.

The genius of this set lies in how it captures Grogu’s personality through thoughtful design choices. At 7.5 inches tall when nestled in his iconic hover pram, the buildable figure features posable ears, a tiltable head, and dial-operated arms that let you recreate those memorable moments from the series. Want him reaching for the shifter knob? Done. Prefer him clutching a cookie with both hands? Absolutely. The articulation gives you genuine creative control over how you display him, which means this isn’t just a static model collecting dust.

Designer: LEGO

LEGO clearly understood the assignment when it came to accessories. The set includes brick-built versions of Grogu’s most iconic items: a Sorgan frog (his favorite forbidden snack that caused so much trouble), the infamous Razor Crest shifter knob, and a little cookie. These aren’t random additions. They’re carefully chosen callbacks to specific moments that defined Grogu’s character throughout The Mandalorian series. Each piece tells a story, which makes the building process feel more like a journey through the show’s best moments.

The hover pram itself deserves special attention. LEGO nailed the weathered, functional aesthetic of the original prop. The muted grays and browns, the mechanical details, the way it closes protectively around Grogu when needed. It’s instantly recognizable to anyone who’s watched the show, but it also works as a standalone piece of design. You can display Grogu sitting comfortably inside or standing beside his transport, giving you flexibility depending on your mood or available space.

With the upcoming theatrical release putting Din Djarin and Grogu back in the spotlight, this set takes on new relevance. We’re getting a feature film that expands their story beyond the Disney+ series format, and having this physical representation of their journey feels particularly meaningful. It’s a way to keep that connection alive between viewings, a tangible reminder of why we fell in love with this unlikely duo in the first place.

The building experience itself offers something special for anyone who appreciates detailed construction. With over a thousand pieces, this provides hours of engaging assembly without becoming overwhelming. The instruction booklet guides you through creating Grogu’s expressive features, the mechanical elements of the hover pram, and all those character-specific details. There’s real satisfaction in watching this beloved character take shape brick by brick.

What makes this set particularly appealing is how it bridges multiple interests. Star Wars fans get authentic screen accuracy. LEGO enthusiasts get sophisticated building techniques and smart engineering solutions. Design lovers get a display piece with clean lines and a cohesive color palette that works in adult spaces. Pop culture collectors get a character at the peak of cultural relevance. It’s rare when a product genuinely delivers across so many categories.

The display stand includes an information plaque and even has space for the included Grogu minifigure with a smaller hover pram, adding another layer of presentation options. This attention to the display experience shows LEGO recognizes these sets live on shelves and desks, not in toy boxes.

While the set is expected to retire sometime in 2026, that’s not really the point. The point is that we’re in a moment where Grogu mania is about to hit peak levels again with a major theatrical release, and this beautifully designed set lets you bring that excitement home. Whether you’re preparing for the movie premiere, looking for the perfect display piece, or just want to spend a weekend building something that brings genuine joy, this hits all the right notes.

The post This 1,048-Piece Grogu LEGO Set Is Perfect Movie Hype first appeared on Yanko Design.

Breitling Just Made the Astro Boy Watch Every 90s Kid Wanted

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Sometimes the best collaborations are the ones you never saw coming. Swiss watchmaker Breitling just dropped a timepiece that pairs aviation-grade engineering with a 1950s Japanese robot boy, and somehow, it works brilliantly.

The Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Astro Boy Limited Edition brings together two worlds that seem miles apart: the technical precision of luxury Swiss watchmaking and the retro-futuristic charm of one of manga’s most iconic characters. Created by the legendary Osamu Tezuka in 1952, Astro Boy embodies optimism about technology and the future, which makes this partnership with Breitling’s pilot-focused Avenger line oddly perfect.

Designer: Breitling

Let’s talk about what makes this watch special. The dial is a vibrant yellow that immediately catches your eye, chosen specifically to echo the fiery thrust of Astro Boy’s signature rocket boots. Against this sunny backdrop, three contrasting black sub-dials create visual depth and drama. But the real star of the show appears on the 9 o’clock sub-dial, where Astro Boy himself is rendered in mid-leap, complete with his spiky hair, those famous red boots, and an expression of pure determination.

Flip the watch over and you’ll find another surprise. The sapphire case back reveals both a playful portrait of Astro Boy and the impressive Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, a COSC-certified movement that offers a 70-hour power reserve. It’s this kind of detail that shows Breitling isn’t just slapping a cartoon character on a watch and calling it a day. The technical specs hold their own: column-wheel control, vertical clutch for precise chronograph engagement, and all the performance you’d expect from an Avenger. The watch itself is housed in a robust 44mm stainless steel case with square pushers and a screw-locked crown, offering 300 meters of water resistance. It’s paired with a rugged black military leather strap that keeps the overall aesthetic grounded and functional, preventing the watch from tipping too far into novelty territory.

This collaboration works because both Breitling and Astro Boy share DNA rooted in pushing boundaries. The Avenger line was built for pilots and adventurers, people who need tools they can trust in demanding conditions. Astro Boy, meanwhile, represented a hopeful vision of how technology could make the world better. When you look at it that way, a robot boy with rocket-powered flight feels like a natural mascot for a pilot’s chronograph.

Of course, exclusivity is part of the appeal. Breitling is only making 99 pieces, each individually engraved with “ONE OF 99.” The watch comes packaged in a specially designed Astro Boy collector’s box, turning the whole package into something that transcends just being a timepiece. It’s a collectible that bridges generations, appealing to vintage manga fans, watch enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates when two iconic brands take creative risks together. There’s one catch: this limited edition is exclusively available through Breitling’s website and boutiques in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Macau. That regional focus makes sense given Astro Boy’s massive cultural footprint in Asia, but it also means fans elsewhere might have to work a bit harder to get their hands on one.

What’s refreshing about this collaboration is how it balances playfulness with craftsmanship. Pop culture watch collaborations can sometimes feel like cash grabs, but this feels considered. The yellow dial isn’t garish; it’s bold and confident. Astro Boy’s inclusion feels integrated rather than tacked on. Even the red-tipped chronograph seconds hand ties back to the character’s iconic color palette. Breitling has proven that heritage brands can embrace pop culture without losing their identity. The Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Astro Boy Limited Edition manages to honor both the technical excellence that defines Swiss watchmaking and the imaginative spirit of Tezuka’s creation. It’s a watch that doesn’t take itself too seriously while still delivering serious horological goods.

For 99 lucky collectors, this timepiece offers something rare: a conversation starter that also happens to be a genuinely impressive chronograph. And in a market flooded with safe choices and predictable designs, that kind of bold creativity deserves a round of applause.

The post Breitling Just Made the Astro Boy Watch Every 90s Kid Wanted first appeared on Yanko Design.

Puma Just Dropped Mismatched Rick and Morty Basketball Shoes

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There’s something brilliantly chaotic about a basketball shoe that refuses to match itself. That’s exactly what Puma delivered with their latest collaboration featuring LaMelo Ball’s MB.05 and Adult Swim’s cult classic Rick and Morty, and honestly, I’m here for every interdimensional second of it.

This isn’t just another celebrity sneaker drop trying too hard to be relevant. It’s the third installment of what has become one of the most unexpected yet perfectly executed partnerships in recent footwear history. LaMelo Ball, the NBA All-Star known for his flamboyant court presence and genuine love for the animated series, has helped create something that feels authentically weird in the best possible way.

Designer: LaMelo Ball x PUMA

The design itself is pure multiverse mayhem. One shoe channels Rick’s chaotic genius with charged-up aqua and electric peppermint tones, while the other bursts with Morty’s anxious energy through vibrant orange and yellow. It’s asymmetrical, it’s bold, and it looks like it tumbled through six different portals before landing on shelves. The colorway, officially dubbed “Rickie Orange-Electric Peppermint,” breaks from the rockstar theme that has defined previous MB.05 releases.

What makes this collaboration work isn’t just the eye-catching colors. The MB.05 is built for performance, featuring Puma’s NITRO Foam technology that provides responsive cushioning without sacrificing court feel. The engineered mesh upper serves as the perfect canvas for Ball’s storytelling, while the revamped outsole stays true to his aggressive, unpredictable playing style. These aren’t just display pieces for your shelf, they’re legitimate performance basketball shoes that happen to look like they were designed by a mad scientist with impeccable taste.

The timing couldn’t be better. Rick and Morty has transcended its origins as a late-night cartoon to become a cultural phenomenon that resonates across demographics. Its humor is smart, dark, and unapologetically strange, much like Ball’s own approach to basketball. He plays with a creativity that feels improvisational, making passes that shouldn’t work but somehow do, launching shots from impossible angles. The connection between the show’s multiverse-hopping adventures and Ball’s style of play feels natural, not forced.

This partnership between Puma and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products has expanded beyond just the MB.05. The collection includes the Puma Sportstyle Inverse and RS Surge styles, along with a full apparel line featuring two graphic tees, a long-sleeve option, shorts, a hoodie, and sweatpants. It’s the kind of comprehensive collaboration that shows real commitment to the concept rather than just slapping a logo on a product and calling it done.

At $135, the MB.05 Rick and Morty edition sits at a competitive price point for signature basketball shoes. Released on November 21, 2025, through Puma’s website, mobile app, the NYC flagship store, and select Foot Locker locations, the shoes represent accessible pop culture fashion for fans who want to express their interests through their footwear.

What’s particularly clever about this collaboration is how it embraces the core philosophy of Rick and Morty itself: nothing is sacred, everything is up for reinterpretation, and normal is overrated. In an era where most athletic footwear collaborations play it safe with neutral colors and subtle nods to their inspiration, Puma and Ball went full portal-gun chaos. They created something that demands attention and conversation, shoes that make people ask “what are those?” in the most complimentary way possible.

The broader implications for sneaker culture are worth noting too. This collaboration represents a growing trend of athletic brands embracing pop culture properties in genuine, creative ways. It’s not enough anymore to just reference something cool; the execution has to match the energy of both the athlete and the inspiration. Here, that balance is struck perfectly. Whether you’re a sneakerhead, a Rick and Morty superfan, or just someone who appreciates when design takes risks, the Puma x Rick and Morty MB.05 delivers. It’s weird, it’s functional, it’s conversation-starting footwear that doesn’t apologize for being exactly what it is: basketball shoes from another dimension.

The post Puma Just Dropped Mismatched Rick and Morty Basketball Shoes first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 5 Pop Culture-Inspired Footwear That Are The Coolest Designs You’ve Ever Seen

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Footwear is not simply a practical necessity any longer, something we just wear on our feet to protect them. It has become a powerful form of self-expression. We can select styles that represent our favorite TV shows, movies, music, and iconic characters from pop culture. Footwear brands have begun to create designs that capture the essence and magic of various popular trends and franchises. And, we’ve curated a collection of pop culture-inspired footwear that will excite collectors and enthusiasts alike. Irrespective if you’re a major lover of pop culture or someone who simply enjoys unique fashion designs, these innovative and one-of-a-kind styles will elevate your shoe game.

1. Batmobile Crocs

These Batmobile Crocs are truly iconic! They’re modeled after the dashing vehicle from the 1989 Batman movie starring Micheal Keaton. The shoes are brilliantly designed and amped with all the bells and whistles, such as a graphic on the front that displays the hood. It also features a set of fins near the ankle, and there are wheel-shaped details around the heel. The front section includes actual windshields! The Crocs are also equipped with headlights, taillights, a jet engine intake at the front, and an afterburner on the back.

2. Pringles x Croc Boots

Meet the Pringles x Crocs boots – these boots are the perfect culmination of functionality and fun, and they’re intended to grab attention. The primary color of the boots is a chill beige, which will complement all your outfits very well. The shoes also include bold red accents which instantly call for attention. The Pringles logo is displayed on the cuff and the side pocket, imparting the boots with a snack-themed vibe. The boots are unique and cool, but they may make you look like a sore thumb, so if you’re okay with that, then they’re a great fit for you.

3. The Simpson Stan Smith Sneakers

Adidas brought back the Simpsons to its popular Stan Smith sneakers! The sneakers form a symbiotic fusion that transcends fashion trends. The shoes are embellished with Marge’s husband Homer, and one of Homer’s popular scenes has been integrated into the shoes – where he slowly moves back into the bush. This scene is pretty popular amongst meme enthusiasts from all over the world!

4. Marvel x Nike Footwear

Say hello to these stunning Marvel x Nike Football sneakers created by Paul Parsons using MidJourney’s AI. The unique and mind-blowing shoes perfectly capture the grandeur and power of MCU’s most iconic heroes and antiheroes. The sneaker series includes 9 different footwear models, which are inspired by the memorable and distinct characters from the Avengers movie, and Wolverine too!

5. Wednesday Stomp Clogs

Inspired by Tim Burton’s hit Netflix series Wednesday, the Wednesday Stomp Clogs are the perfect culmination of gothic style and comfort. Designed by Crocs, these limited-edition clogs are creepy yet chic. They are designed to provide a fresh and dramatic look that is great for fans of the show and lovers of spooky fashion. They feature a glossy black upper and a white color detail, giving a nod to Wednesday’s schoolgirl outfit. The Crocs are great for casual outings or Halloween events this spooky season!

The post Top 5 Pop Culture-Inspired Footwear That Are The Coolest Designs You’ve Ever Seen first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best LEGO Pop Culture Sets For Collectors

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If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. Because we’re gonna take it up a notch for you and introduce you to some pop-culture-based LEGO builds. We’ve curated some of our favorite pop culture LEGO builds for you to try building by yourself! From a LEGO version of the Brooklyn 99 show to a LEGO variant of Harry Potter’s Sorting Hat – these LEGO builds are complete collector’s items for pop culture lovers.

1. LEGO Downton Abbey Set

LEGO builder BRO3 created a dedicated LEGO set for the historical drama series Downton Abbey to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary. The LEGO Ideas Downton Abbey set is extremely detailed, featuring the old Highclere Castle, as well as the expansive Crawley family including the butlers and the castle caretakers who make up the main cast of the show. The built has been designed with incredible attention to detail, and it includes multiple rooms, and at least 15 minifigures – 16 if you count the dog Pharaoh. It even includes Lady Mary’s bench!

2. LEGO Godzilla

Created by the LEGO builder Matthew Esposito, the LEGO version of Godzilla is the first LEGO Godzilla, despite almost ten or more movies coming out. The LEGO build is a small-scale variant of the city-destroying reptile, and it is inspired by the ‘King of Monsters’ Godzilla’ (from the 2019 movie). The Godzilla is only a few inches tall, featuring a hefty body and long tail. It can even blow blue flames in all directions.

3. LEGO Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

LEGO builder Teljesnegyzet created the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a LEGO-based action figure set. The LEGO Ideas TMNT kit accurately represents the four turtles in their superhero garb. The set includes turtles in their four colored bandanas and bands, with their own weapons of choice. The turtles have a belt with their initials labeled on the buckle, and they have been color-matched to their originals, and display four shades of green.

4. Sorting Hat

The LEGO Group has launched another cool Harry Potter-based build – meet the LEGO version of the Sorting Hat! It is a dedicated LEGO variant that includes a hidden sound box that emits loud and randomized phrases in English, which we’ve all surely heard before. The hat is 9.5 inches tall, and 7.5 diameters in length, and you can showcase it proudly on a stand with Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols on it.

5. LEGO Barad-dûr

The new LEGO set- themed on Barad-dûr, Sauron’s iconic stronghold is a must-have for the Lord of the Rings fans. It is a build consisting of 5471 pieces and is topped with the Eye of Sauron, which is the disembodied eye that overlooks his evil domain. It includes four main sections – a prison, an armory, a throne room, and a kitchen. Users can also get a complementary 269-piece Fell beast set, with wings for the flying creature and the Nazul Minifigure.

6. LEGO Portal 2 Gun

The gun from Portal 2 doesn’t exist in real life, but Hooded-Blaze built this gun to be a perfect replica of the cyberpunk quantum gadget from the game. The Portal 2 Quantum Tunneling Device is built entirely from LEGO bricks and includes its own stand. It also has the ability to alternate between shooting orange or blue tunnels, much like the game. How cool is this build?!

7. LEGO Kung Fu Panda

A LEGO Kung Fu Panda from the first movie in the franchise was submitted to the LEGO Ideas Forum. The super cute Po is equipped with a dragon scroll and a bowl of noodles, and he performs the epic Wixu Finger Hold as well! The brick panda is equipped with a completely positionable body with movable hands, legs, head, fingers, and even eyebrows! Po also has a jiggling belly that bounces if you touch it.

8. The LEGO® Ideas 21348 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Red Dragon’s Tale

LEGO has finally combined with DUNGEONS & DRAGONS to mark DND’s 50th anniversary, creating The LEGO® Ideas 21348 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Red Dragon’s Tale. It is a 3745-piece playable box set designed by LEGO-builder Lucas Bolt and was initially submitted to LEGO’s Ideas forum, where LEGO’s internal team selected it and converted it into this stunning set, featuring a tavern, mysterious dungeon, and a tall wizard’s tower. It also includes a massive Cinderhowl, a menacing red dragon as well.

9. LEGO Brooklyn 99

Brooklyn 99 will always be hands down my favorite TV show ever, so when LEGO builder Ben Fakhauser created an adorable build for it, I was super excited. The LEGO creation includes the entire 99th precinct – all the rooms and characters as well! The precise and intricate build contains everything – from the bullpen to the captain’s office, even the printer room! Important aspects of the precinct floors were incorporated, and even secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were recreated too!

10. LEGO Seven Dwarf’s Cottage

Say hello to this cute LEGO version of the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney movie – Snow White. The fascinating build is made using 2228 pieces, and 10 mini figurines. The build is created with a lot of attention to detail and reminds you of all the interesting and lovely bits of the table. The set also features Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Prince, and the Seven Dwarfs.

The post 10 Best LEGO Pop Culture Sets For Collectors first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Pop Culture-Inspired LEGO Builds For You To Try At Home

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If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. Because we’re gonna take it up a notch for you and introduce you to some pop-culture-based LEGO builds. We’ve curated some of our favorite pop culture LEGO builds for you to try building by yourself! From a LEGO version of the Brooklyn 99 show to LEGO variant of Harry Potter’s Sorting Hat – these LEGO builds are complete collector’s items for pop culture lovers.

1. LEGO Brooklyn 99

Brooklyn 99 is one of my favorite TV shows ever, and LEGO creator Ben Fankfauser immortalized it with this adorable build which encapsulates the entire 99th precinct, including all the rooms and characters from the show. The detailed set includes almost everything, ranging from the bullpen to the captain’s office, and the printer room as well! Integral and precise aspects of the precinct’s floor were recreated, and some secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were added to the mix as well.

2. LEGO Sorting Hat

Harry Potter fans should rejoice because the LEGO Group recently unveiled the Sorting Hat! The Sorting Hat has unveiled a dedicated LEGO version, with a hidden sound box that will emit out loud randomized phrases in English, which we all are familiar with. It is 9.5 inches tall, and 7.5 diameters in length, and it can adorned on a stand that features Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols.

3. LEGO Seven Dwarf’s Cottage

Meet this adorable LEGO version of the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney animation – the Snow White movie. This lavish build is made of 2228 pieces, and 10 mini figurines. It is intriguingly and precisely detailed to bring to mind all the interesting and memorable aspects of the tale. The build also comes along with Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Seven Dwarfs, and the Prince.

4. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull

The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is one of the first Jurassic World sets intended for museum-like display. It is a 577-piece set that includes a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to proudly display it. The build also includes an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.

5. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene

LEGO builder Minibrick Productions has recreated the iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the iconic Interstellar movie with this little LEGO-based build that features the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and CASE. The two robots are equipped with repositionable arms that allow them to walk like humans, while Hathaway and McConaughey wear their space suits.

6. LEGO R2D2

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Star Wars, LEGO has launched a 1050-brick version of R2D2. R2-D2 is the iconic droid in the multiple Star Wars adventures, who was loved by everyone! He is making a fascinating return in his brick-built form, in a compact and smaller form than the 2214-brick version 3 years ago. It is intended for younger galactic lovers aged 9 and above.

7. LEGO The Great British Bake Off

The Great British Bake Off is now available in a LEGO version! The LEGO Great British Bake Off is equipped with an impressive amount of detail. It recreates almost every aspect and element of the show, down to the tiniest and minute details. It features six decked-out participant islands littered with utensils, a sink, burners, a KitchenAid mixer, and an oven at the bottom. The backdrop is adorned with signature string lights, Union Jack flags, and a kitchen pantry.

8. LEGO Avengers Tower

This impressive LEGO set measures 35.5 inches tall, and it was created as a part of the 60th anniversary of the Avengers. It is supposed to be one of the tallest sets when put together! As you look at it, you’ll notice the Quinjet, Leviathan, and two Chitauri flyers from the 2012 Avengers Assemble. The interior of the set features scenes from the Infinity Sage, Age of Ultron party, and Endgame.

9. LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

LEGO collabs with Mario in the form of this LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. The build is made up of 540 pieces, and when you put it together you get a sharp-toothed Piranha Plant! The build commemorates this little ‘villain’ from the game, and it is also camera-ready letting you show off that you’ve completed the masterpiece. It features the spiky leaves, the polka-dot head, and the green pipe from which it grows.

10. LEGO Quidditch Trunk

Meet the LEGO Quidditch Trunk! It may not be LEGO’s most complex or difficult Harry Potter build, but it is quite entertaining and interactive. It is a 599-brick build and is equipped with a comprehensive Quidditch setup that includes brooms, hoops, players, and a launcher that lets you shoot disc-shaped quaffles through the hoops.

The post Top 10 Pop Culture-Inspired LEGO Builds For You To Try At Home first appeared on Yanko Design.