Disney and Balmain Came Together for ‘The Lion King’ Collection: A Celebration of African Artistry

When you ask a millennial what their favorite Disney movie is they’ll 98% of the time say ‘The Lion King’. With the news that Disney and Balmain have come together to release “The Lion King” collection, a line of ready-to-wear designs and accessories for men and women inspired by Africa’s artisanal traditions and celebrating emerging African talents, we have to say that millennials win again. The collection is prominently featured in a short film shot in South Africa by Femi Oladigbolu, which showcases the designs against stunning natural scenery, following a diverse group of African models led by Balmain’s creative director, Olivier Rousteing.

The film debuted during the July 5th “Lion King In Concert” event at London’s Royal Albert Hall, accompanied by the Chineke! Orchestra. This collection commemorates the 30th anniversary of Disney’s “The Lion King” and the upcoming release of “Mufasa: The Lion King” in December, with a global launch set for July 8th.

Image: Joel Anderson

Rousteing, who has directed Balmain for thirteen years, integrates the brand’s signature silhouettes and Parisian couture craftsmanship with his personal reflections and African heritage, which he discovered through his birth parents from Somalia and Ethiopia. This collaboration, the first between Disney and Balmain, spotlights African craftsmanship and features contributions from young African artists, including South African painter Nika Mtwana, Cameroonian painter Enfant Precoce, and South African painter Cassius Khumalo.

Rousteing expressed his deep connection to the project, recalling how “The Lion King” profoundly influenced him as a child. “Celebrating where we come from helps us see where we are headed,” he remarked, highlighting the collection’s blend of tradition and innovation.

Image: Joel Anderson

The collection and film celebrate Africa’s rich cultural heritage, offering a powerful tribute to Disney’s timeless story and Rousteing’s personal journey. In addition, the collaboration will be featured in a documentary special, “On The Red Carpet Storytellers Spotlight: Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ x Balmain,” premiering on Hulu and ABC platforms on July 10.