In Marrakesh, life is a performance. More than that, it’s a magical evocation of an Arabian Nights-style city of intriguing scents, ancient cries of commerce, and elegant architecture from the golden era of Islamic civilisation.
Modern Moroccan design at Max & Jan
WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM JESSICA LEE. PHOTOGRAPH: MARC VAN VAEK
33 RUE MAJORELLE
33ruemajorelle.com
More than 60 designers, mostly from Morocco, are represented in this two-floor emporium, and co-owner Yehia Abdelnour is dedicated to sourcing local talent. Quality is high and so can the prices be, but it’s still easy to find lovely threads for less. Star buys include silk harem pants, cotton children’s smocks and billowing kaftans. There’s also a small menswear corner.
AL NOUR
alnour-textiles.com
This smart cooperative run by local women with disabilities is where you can find fabulous neutral household linens, embroidered garments and top-quality accessories. All the textiles can be made to measure, and it’s a popular place for stylish hand-stitched Marrakesh-mod tunics, dresses and shirts for men, women and kids.
LEARN THE CRAFT
Ateliers d’Ailleurs’ studios offer a unique insight into traditional craft techniques and the chance to chat with artisans. Workshops are private and hands-on. Many
workshops are held in the souqs (
ateliersdailleurs.com).
ANAMIL
48 Derb Sidi Ishak,
Rue
Azbezt