What to wear in Marrakech
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Long days spent exploring the bustling souks, devouring delicious tagines at rooftop restaurants or wandering through the sensory experience that is Marrakech’s medina – not to mention the possibility of good weather and lounging in a tranquil riad – all combine to make it an ever-popular spot to visit. But packing for a trip to Marrakech requires careful consideration. Not only can the climate spell hot days and contrastingly cooler evenings, but it’s important to be respectful of the Muslim culture and dress modestly when outside your hotel or riad. Choose high necks and ankle lengths in light linen layers for daytime, and be sure to pack a lightweight shawl or scarf to cover up with. Most importantly? Leave your suitcase half empty for baskets and Boucherouite rugs galore.
Linens
A simple linen shirt set will become your multitasking best friend on a trip to Marrakech: keeping you cool while providing a modest layer for exploring the city, and you can mix and match depending on the temperature or your setting. If you’re staying in a riad or hotel with a pool, the shirt also doubles as an easy swimwear cover-up – a great hack for over packers. A neutral colour such as beige is a great all-rounder but we also love an earthy hue such as this desert red from Massimo Dutti.
Shoulder bag
A decent-sized shoulder bag is the perfect companion for a day perusing the souks and stocking up on souvenirs. Look for a style that will double as an evening bag, such as this divine handbag from Bottega with a golden sardine closure. If opting for leather, dark green, or tan, look chicer in warmer settings than playing-it-safe black. Also, non-block leather, such as woven styles, keeps things less structured and more holiday-mode. An oversized shoulder bag made of natural fibre is another great option, and it will double as a holdall for a day by the pool.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a vital part of any holiday look – protect your eyes under Marrakech’s yellow sun with a decent, wide-lens style. A cat-eye design gives full coverage without looking too oversized. Stay away from metal as this can really heat up in the sun, and go for acetate; if black feels too harsh but colour too statement, opt for a tortoiseshell colourway which looks chic with anything. Nod to the Yves Saint Laurent museum and gardens with a pair from the eponymous brand.
A wrap
This is a really useful, multi-purpose item, and one we wouldn’t travel to Marrakech without. If you’re planning on visiting any religious monuments or temples, it's vital to be covered up, so pack a lightweight scarf or shawl to throw over your shoulders. This can also double as a pool wrap or a sarong, or a headscarf if you're feeling particularly sartorially adventurous.
Sandals
For any hot-weather holiday where there might be more walking than the stroll from your room to the buffet, a comfortable and sturdy pair of sandals is a must. We love a fisherman-style sandal with chunky straps and support-boosting soles. They work with trousers or dresses and can be dressed up or down. They're also great if you’re planning any trips to the Atlas Mountains.
Swimwear
Escape the city’s heat with a day by the pool in the perfect swimwear. We love a patterned one-piece that keeps you covered while still being fashion-forward. Prints such as paisley or palm trees are great for any holiday mode.
Printed maxi dress
When in doubt, look to the maxi dress; from kaftans to kimono shapes, even a muumuu, this easy, breezy style is perfect for throwing on from day to night. Look for a print or pattern in a darker tone that works as an evening dress as well as a cover-up in the day. This is your one-stop style for looking chic with just one simple item.
Sunhat
Finally, the finishing touch to any look – the sun hat. Stay out of Morocco's harsh rays with a good sun hat to keep the light off your face and shoulders. Look for a classic style that can be paired with a dress, trouser suit, or swimwear. A little detail can pack a punch, so opt for a black ribbon trim or a colourful raffia stripe.
