Welcome to Part 2 of Q+A with Caroline Macleod-Smith, a personal stylist, sharing her tips on what to wear in Marrakech, what to pack, and how to accessorise an outfit.
Caroline and I studied together at the University of Leeds, way back when mobile phones were bricks. Funnily enough, we bought our first mobile phones together and had phone numbers one digit apart.
It is a dream to work with Caroline on a Marrakech shopping guide. To be able to combine our expertise and share our passion. Me, a Morocco-based travel writer/guidebook author and Caroline, a British fashion stylist and TV presenter.
In April 2026, Caroline and I spent four days researching shopping in Marrakech and creating an accessible, clear, user-friendly, "based on lived experience" guide to shopping in Marrakech. You can read Part 1 of this Q+A here, which includes what makes Marrakech stand out in the fashion world, what to shop for in Marrakech, where to find the best high street fashion, where to splurge for luxury fashion, and where to stop for coffee/ lunch/ a rooftop cocktail.
If you are looking for a central, well-priced riad to stay in the Medina, close to the best shopping in Marrakech, I recommend Riad Beij Boutique Hotel and Wellness or Riad RK Suites and Spa. You may also like to read Best Riads in Marrakech under GBP250/ night or Best Luxury Riads Marrakech 300-500 euros/ night. This post contains affiliate links. If you click them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Over to you, Caroline!
What fabrics are best to wear in Marrakech?
Caroline (left) in loose fitting, stone-striped co-ord, Sally (right) in a sweaty polyester onesie
Wear natural, lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen, and choose loose silhouettes.
Avoid man-made fabrics like polyester, which won’t breathe, trap heat, and make you sweat.
What cuts and shapes work best in Marrakech?
Caroline (pictured left in Topolina) and (right) wearing a loose fitting aqua cotton blouse and white linen trousers
Ideally, choose loose kaftan shapes or tops with a looser top line that doesn't fit under the arm; raglan sleeves or dropped shoulders let air circulate.
Tops and dresses with good coverage over the neckline and sleeves ensure you dress respectfully.
Avoid full-length maxi dresses or wide-leg trousers that may sweep the floor, catch dust, and become a trip hazard. Especially with the rooftop bars! Go for a midi or Midaxi instead.
What is your favourite outfit to wear in Marrakech?
My favourite outfit is a linen kaftan top for an easy, relaxed silhouette, with wide-leg cropped trousers to let the air flow and keep a practical length.
Any tips on best shoes for Marrakech?
Flat shoes (pictured left) for walking the cobbled streets, even a wedge (right) can be unstable
Flat, comfortable shoes are a must; a small heel is ok, but make sure it’s a block heel to keep you stable on the cobbled, uneven ground. Even a wedge heel can be unstable!
Any tips on accessories to wear in Marrakech? Maybe something to pack or buy there.
A lightweight scarf to cover shoulders, and a neckscarf to elevate an outfit, keep sun off your head
A great accessory is a lightweight scarf you can throw around your shoulders on a chilly evening, and also over your head if you're visiting a religious site 🕌
A few pieces of statement jewellery to elevate a simple outfit, especially when you want to stay in your lightweight relaxed outfit into the evening
A wide-brimmed hat to shade you from the midday sun
A neck scarf - not only a big trend piece to add to any outfit, but also great to elevate an outfit…and then use as a headscarf to change up a look for another day.
What kind of bag do you recommend buying or wearing in Marrakech?
Cross-body bag (left) and a bigger bag (right) found in the souk
A cross-body bag, maybe with fringing to tap into a key trend, is ideal for keeping valuables close. And you’re hands-free for all the shopping.
A bigger bag, maybe in a print or beautiful texture, to hold all your shopping treasure!
Thank you for reading to the end. If you enjoyed this blog, you may also like Part 1: Shopping in Marrakech: A Fashion Stylist’s Q+A on Best Places to Shop, Eat and Stay.
Please do get in touch if you’d like to register your interest in the Marrakech Shopping Guide.
For recommendations on places to stay in Marrakech, check out Best Luxury Marrakech Riads and Best Riads under £250 in Marrakech Medina.
If you would like help planning a trip to Morocco, contact me to arrange a travel planning call.
If you would like help with personal styling, fashion presenting or corporate styling events, contact Caroline Macleod-Smith.
