Balmain, the iconic French fashion house, has unveiled a limited edition collection in honor of the 30th anniversary of Disney’s beloved classic, “The Lion King.” This isn't just a capsule collection—Balmain and Disney have created a comprehensive fashion experience, captured in a stunning film directed by Nigerian filmmaker Femi Oladigbolu.
Imagine the majesty of the African savanna merging with the fierce energy of Balmain’s designs. This cinematic masterpiece offers a glimpse into the collection, highlighting how it seamlessly blends the spirit of Africa with the timeless power of the “Lion King” story. Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant colors, bold silhouettes, and a celebration of exceptional African talents.
Shot in South Africa with a Rousteing-led Balmain Army of models from all across Africa, this impressive work is a great testament to African ingenuity and craftsmanship.
I was only nine years old when ‘The Lion King’ was first released, but even now, almost three decades later, I can close my eyes and replay that incredible mix of music, images, and emotions. The lessons I absorbed, as I sat transfixed by the giant screen, have stayed with me for life.
— Oliver Rousteing, collection designer and creative director of Balmain
The collection will be available on July 8th, 2024:
It was clear when we started working with Olivier and the Balmain team—there was such a strong desire to get it right. We collaborated very closely with his team across multiple touchpoints. It resulted in a collection that’s unequivocally Balmain but also beautifully captures the spirit of the original film.
Every piece was executed with so much thoughtfulness and integrity, with its own story to tell. In addition, we further expanded our storytelling by collaborating with three incredible African artists who created unique artwork featured throughout the collection.
— Tasia Fillippatos, President of Disney Consumer Products
