Just days after nearly breaking the internet with his Balmain creation for Gigi Hadid's finale appearance at Vogue World 2024, Olivier Rousteing has made history once again with an unexpected partner. In celebration of Disney's The Lion King 30th anniversary and ahead of the theatrical Mufasa: The Lion King release, the designer has teamed up with the entertainment giant to create a collection comprised of ready-to-wear clothing and accessories for both men and women inspired by the iconic film.
For Rousteing, the collaboration is a "dream come true" and a full-circle moment as he first watched the movie when he was 9 years old. "Even now, almost three decades later, I can close my eyes and replay that incredible mix of music, images, and emotions," he said in an Instagram post.
A perfect marriage of Balmain's free-spirited sophistication and the film's timeless significance as a coming-of-age phenomenon, Rousteing's line is inspired by main color schemes and settings. "The Lion King's entire universe is so inspiring, the scenery and characters are so beautiful in color and texture," he told Hypebeast. "I was inspired by the physical aspects and the story as well as the messages of destiny, heritage and resilience. Making this collection was a labor of love."
The partnership also amplifies young African artists. South African painters Nika Mtwana and Cassius Khumalo created intricate portraits for various tees, tops and dresses. Artist Enfant Précoce, who hails from Cameroon, illustrated Simba on coats, suits, gowns and totes.
The collection continues to show Rousteing's identity and evolution as a person and creative being. "As an adopted child, I see myself in Simba—the solitary lion cub creating his own unique family while exploring the truth about his lineage," he said. "This is the essence of resilience and heritage that I infuse into my designs for Balmain."
Balmain's The Lion King limited-edition collection will be showcased in a short film directed by Femi Oladigbolu that depicts the Balmain Army traverse landscapes in the Western Cape province. It will also launch on the brand's website and its stores on July 8 with the windows at the brand's Saint Honoré flagship housing all pieces. In the meantime, take a scroll through the campaign below.
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