Balmain joins forces with African artists for the Lion King anniversary

France – In celebration of The Lion King’s 30th anniversary and the upcoming release of Mufasa: The Lion King, Disney and Balmain have teamed up to create a limited-edition collection. Designed by Balmain’s creative director Olivier Rousteing, the collection features ready-to-wear pieces and accessories inspired by African artisanal traditions and Disney’s storytelling. 

Notable artists including South African painter Nika Mtwana and Cameroonian artist Enfant Précoce contributed to the designs, incorporating Afro-futuristic elements and characters from the original movie such as Simba. The collection was showcased in a short film by British-Nigerian director Femi Oladigbolu, capturing the essence of African craftsmanship. 

In our analysis of Moving African Fashion Forward, we highlighted how authentic collaborations with talent on the African continent were crucial for taking the market to its next stage on the global fashion landscape.