•Different BODPY-based supramolecules are categorized.•The structure-properties effet of BODIPY-based supramolecules are summarized.•Diverse BODIPY-based supramolecules photophysical properties and applications are highlighted. In the last decades, BODIPY-based supramolecules have gained considerable research interest due to their excellent photophysical properties, good photostability and widespread applications in responsive materials, gel, liquid crystal, white light emission materials and phototherapy, etc. These supramolecules provide versatile platforms for functionalization due to different reactive sites in BODIPY core. In this review, we summarize the latest progresses on BODIPY-based supramolecules, including the empirical design strategies, photophysical manipulation and various applications.