This Lion King Makeup Collection Is A Disney Collector’s Dream

It’s been over two decades since The Lion King became an instant Disney classic, and this summer the animated movie is getting a live-action revival, similar to Dumbo and Aladdin. The adaptation is going to have all the drama of the original — Mufasa’s death is the saddest scene in cinematic history (don’t @ us) — but with a new notable cast that features Donald Glover, Beyoncé, and Seth Rogan.
With all the excitement for this remake, it comes as no surprise that there’s a coordinating makeup collection. Because, in this day and age, an adjacent eyeshadow palette cements a movie as a cultural phenomenon. And who better to create The Lion King-inspired makeup line than the man who is responsible for Beyoncé’s glow?
Sir John was tapped by Disney to bring the iconic film to life in makeup form, and he partnered with Luminess Cosmetics to create the 8-piece collection. As a first step, Sir John took a safari in Johannesburg, South Africa. There, he was inspired by everything from the red pigments in the dirt to the rich colors in the animals’ fur. The collection features an eyeshadow palette, sculpting palette, highlighter, and lip products — all made with the movie and the spirit of Africa in mind.
One other important thing Sir John considered: inclusivity. “The most important thing in creating this line was that it translates to every complexion,” the makeup artist tells Refinery29. “Women are looking at me to create a line that everyone can bring home. So, this can work with a lighter skin tone like Nicole Kidman to darker skin tones like Lupita Nyong’o.”
While we wait for the limited-edition collection to drop on June 15 and The Lion King movie to premiere on July 19, we’re giving you a closer look so that you can get your coins ready. Ahead, all the products in The Lion King Limited-Edition Collection by Sir John x Luminess.

Sir John x Luminess Be Brave Matte Lipstick

This collection has small details — like the rose-gold in the packaging and the imprinted patterns on the lipstick bullets — that will make it a collector’s item. This highly pigmented, matte lipstick leaves a velvety finish and comes in two shades: a nude-mauve and a bold red.

Sir John x Luminess Be Prepared Liquid Lipstick

If you prefer liquid lipsticks, the collection has got you covered with this full-coverage, yet lightweight formula that comes in two shades: a brick red and a cinnamon brown. Sir John chose the burgundy shade to mimic the fruit juice Rafiki anointed Simba with in the Circle of Life scene.

Sir John x Luminess Legacy Tinted Lip Balm

For days when you want a more natural lip look, this nourishing lip balm has a hint of sheer color and a glossy finish.

Sir John x Luminess Can’t Wait To Be Queen Eyeshadow Palette

Sir John’s favorite product in the lineup is this 12-pan eyeshadow palette that will transport you to Africa with its rich colors. “We went for colors that would be aspirational to have in your kit,” says Sir John.

Sir John x Luminess Circle of Life Highlighter

If you take a closer look at the packaging of this highlighter, you’ll notice the glitter detail is meant to reflect Simba seeing Mufasa in the stars. You’ll be shining just like those stars when you apply this universal powder, which can be used on both face and body.

Sir John x Luminess Kingdom Sculpting Palette

Don’t think of this as just a six-pan contouring palette, it’s so much more, according to Sir John. It comes with cool tones that can be used to define facial features or dusted onto the eyelids. “It doesn’t matter if you’re super minimal, this is just an easy daytime palette,” he says.