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Morocco has long appealed to the fashion world. Its warmth, light, colour and craftsmanship make it catnip for those with a love of beauty and creativity, from Yves Saint Laurent and Henri Matisse to Mick and Bianca Jagger. It’s a relatively conservative country, and Islam is a central part of life, so what you pack requires thought beyond aesthetic. While there are no enforced dress codes, modest attire will ensure you respect religious and cultural norms – and enable you to enjoy a hassle-free trip.
High on your packing list should be LOOSE SILHOUETTES. This is a place where the kaftan reigns so lean in, whether a 70s-inspired FLOOR-SWEEPING DRESS, a tunic or a pair of wide-leg trousers. Breathable fabrics are important when temperatures clime; pack a linen shirt which doubles as a cover-up. Kindred of Ireland’s intense, electric blue style is best in show right now, and a pleasing nod to YSL’S BELOVED MAJORELLE BLUE colour that was inspired by Marrakech.
“Cities are less conservative than the countryside, but, all the same, respecting traditions when abroad is always more comfortable,” says Vanessa Branson, co-founder of one of Marrakech’s most stylish hotels, El Fenn, where Gwyneth Paltrow and Alexa Chung stay when visiting the fabled ‘pink city’. “When at home, or in hotels and restaurants anything goes, but when out on the streets, I’d suggest keeping shoulders covered, as well as no shorts and skirts above the knees”. When it comes to accessories, a pareo that can be also used as a scarf is useful for visiting mosques. Keep barely-there fabrics for the hotel, and don’t forget a spacious shopping bag – the souks are treasure troves of ceramics, glassware and clothing to bring home.
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Lead image: Zimmermann
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
