Balmain Gives Disney’s ‘Lion King’ The Fashion Treatment For 30th Anniversary

By Mikelle Leow, 28 Jun 2024

Credit: Joel Anderson. Image via Disney Consumer Products / PR Newswire

Can you feel the luxe tonight? French fashion house Balmain joined the stampede to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disney’s beloved 1994 film with The Lion King collection. Creative director Olivier Rousteing, a self-proclaimed childhood fan, aimed to capture the essence of the film while spotlighting African artistry and craftsmanship.

Here, Rousteing weaves inspiration from the movie’s themes and savanna setting. Striking silhouettes—a Balmain signature—are adorned with bold prints featuring artwork by three African creatives.

Credit: Joel Anderson. Image via Disney Consumer Products / PR Newswire

South African painter Nika Mtwana’s vibrant piece finds itself reimagined on a flowy dress, while Cameroonian artist Enfant Precoce’s portrayal of Simba graced outerwear and tees. A showstopping gold polka-dot gown, reminiscent of the sunbaked African plains, adds a touch of grand theatricality.

Credit: Joel Anderson. Image via Disney Consumer Products / PR Newswire

But the heart of the collection lies in a celebration of Africa. Rousteing has collaborated with South African artist Cassius Kumalo, whose portrait of Nala was featured on hoodies and totes, to not only dabble into Disney nostalgia but also uplift African creative voices.

Credit: Joel Anderson. Image via Disney Consumer Products / PR Newswire

“Working on this collaboration was a dream come true,” the designer expresses. “I was only nine years old when The Lion King was first released, but still today, almost three decades later, I only need to close my eyes to replay that incredible mix of music, images and emotions. The lessons that I absorbed, as I sat, absolutely transfixed by what was happening on the giant screen in front of me, have remained with me for my entire life.”

Credit: Joel Anderson. Image via Disney Consumer Products / PR Newswire

In the accompanying video, filmed in South Africa’s Western Cape, a diverse cast of 30 African models—dubbed the “Balmain Army”—take to the stunning landscape, their journey culminating in a wonderful homecoming celebration.

The collection, available from July 8, 2024, features Lion King motifs on everything from T-shirts to couture gowns, inviting fashion enthusiasts to embrace their inner lion or lioness.