Introduce the Idea
I am creating a series of blind boxes called To Soft To Be Punk. This project explores the playful contrast between cuteness and rebellion through a series of collectible blind-box charms. Each character is an adorable, mainstream-appeal animal—like a cat, dog, or rabbit—decorated with punk-style piercings and metal accessories. Inspired by internet memes about trying to look “tough” but still being soft inside, the series humorously reflects how self-expression through piercings can create both confidence and vulnerability. By combining subcultural aesthetics with charming character design, the project celebrates individuality, emotional honesty, and the unexpected sweetness behind a seemingly edgy appearance.
What are you selling?
I am selling a series of blind-box charms featuring cute animals with punk-style piercings. Each character mixes softness with rebellion, creating a fun contrast that appeals to collectors who enjoy unique, expressive designs. These charms offer both a playful aesthetic and a small symbol of individuality.
Target Audience
The target audience includes young adults and art toy collectors who appreciate both kawaii culture and alternative aesthetics. Especially those who use fashion and body modification, like piercings as forms of self-expression. They will find the series relatable, as it reflects the struggle between wanting to appear strong and remaining gentle inside. The humor and emotional honesty make it both collectible and personally meaningful.
The Problems My Website has to solve
Showing the theme of the blind box series clearly, and visually striking.
Introducing the products clearly to the customer.
Enable to catch customers' attention to buy my product.
Having a shop and checkout page for purchasing.
Stating all the purchasing detail clearly for customer.
Enable merchants who like my creations and artistic style get in touch with me.
How the website solve the problems
Creating the website with strong artistic style related to the theme.
Having a home page or landing page for a briefly introduction for my product.
Having a About the Series page for creative inspiration and brand philosophy.
Having a characters page for showing all the details of each of the characters include in the blind box.
Having a cart and checkout page for purchasing and providing detailed information on price, inventory, shipping cost, and purchase requirements, etc.
Having a contact page for merchants and future collaboration.
Having a FAQ page for stating all the detail for purchasing clearly.
Distinction with similar website
Specific for this blind box seires.
Creator-Centered Storytelling: The website foregrounds my personal story with piercings, the meme that inspired the idea, and the emotional humor behind the project. This turns the site from a simple product page into a narrative-driven experience that feels intimate and authentic.
Visual Direction Inspired by Piercing Subculture: Piercing aesthetics rarely appear in designer toy websites.
A Hybrid Audience: Cute toy collectors and piercing lovers.
How does it addresses the target audience
The project and the website design connects with its target audience by combining two things they love: cute character design and expressive piercing culture. The series reflects the audience’s own mix of softness and rebellion, making each character feel relatable and emotionally meaningful. Its playful visuals, unique aesthetic, and emphasis on individuality appeal directly to collectors who value personality-driven, distinctive designs.
Research
POPMART
Clear and Intuitive Navigation
Well-defined categories such as New Arrivals, Blind Boxes, IP Characters, Events, and Membership.
Prioritized links highlighting limited editions, new drops, and seasonal collections.
Multiple entry points (top menu, homepage banners, recommendation sections) that guide users effortlessly.
IP-driven structure, helping fans directly find the characters they follow.
Eye-Catching Visual Appeal
Large, vibrant hero banners featuring new characters in high saturation colors.
Detailed 3D renders that show texture, gloss, and collectible value.
Consistent visual branding, combining cuteness with trendy, street-style elements.
Strong IP-Driven Brand Storytelling
Each character or series has a dedicated page showcasing its story, personality, and worldbuilding.
Strategic Product Presentation
Clean grid layouts that make browsing hundreds of items easy.
Multiple product images
Recommendations: Best Sellers, New Releases, and “You May Like.”
Sanrio
Warm, Friendly, and Highly Recognizable Visual Identity
Soft pastel colors, rounded shapes, and gentle typography create a comforting and welcoming atmosphere.
Character-centered visuals—Hello Kitty, My Melody, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi—appear immediately on the homepage.
Clear, Character-Driven Navigation
Dedicated “Characters” section allowing users to browse by IP
Product-focused categories such as New Arrivals, Best Sellers, Plush, Accessories, Stationery.
Seasonal and themed tabs
Highly Emotional Brand Storytelling
Short, heartwarming character bios reinforce emotional bonding.
Tone of voice is friendly, gentle, and nostalgic.
Consistent Global Brand Identity
The website matches the visual style of Sanrio stores, social media, packaging, and merchandise.
The tone is consistently cute, gentle, and optimistic.
Mood Board
Thumbnails and Sketches
Wireframes and Prototypes
Mockup