Experience traditional Moroccan clothing shopping in Morocco’s bustling markets and souks. Browse the colorful textiles, experience the friendly haggling, and try on a variety of traditional garments. Moroccan fashion is a distinct style of its own, full of vibrant colors and intricate details. Shopping for traditional Moroccan clothing is an exciting experience that can make for a unique and memorable shopping experience. It is a distinct style of its own, full of vibrant colors and intricate details. In order to have a better understanding of it, today we invite Jenny, a famous and experienced fashion blogger who devotes herself to exploring Moroccan clothing for several years, to give some detailed information. Here is all you need to know to make the most of your Moroccan clothing shopping spree.
What Is Traditional Moroccan Clothing?
Traditional Moroccan costume is well known as its fashion and media for featuring long robes, “dresses with pointy hoods”, and colorful patterns. People usually dress up in this costume when there are some critical occasions such as weddings or festivals.So if you could see someone who wears such traditional clothing, it is the most important thing.
Popular Traditional Moroccan Clothing Items
Moroccan traditional costumes vary depending on the region and occasion, but some common elements include Diellaba, Kaftan, Sarouel, Jabador or Jellaba and so on.
- Djellaba：it is a loose-fitting, full-length garment with long sleeves and a hood, typically made of wool or cotton. The djellaba is worn by both men and women in Morocco and is often embellished with decorative embroidery or patterns. It is a practical and versatile garment that provides protection against the hot sun and cold weather, and can be worn for various occasions, from everyday wear to traditional ceremonies and festivals.
- Kaftan：it is a long smooth and flowing robe-like garment usually worn by women.And you can dress it up when there are weddings or other formal occasions.This kind of clothing has many small diamonds and some little sequins, which is the main factor being the traditional costume among women.
- Sarouel： also known as harem pants, suits men and women.You do not worry about whether it is suitable for some daily occasions, instead it can dress in most places.These are loose-fitting pants that drop below the knee and can be made of cotton or silk.
- Jabador or Jellaba：this is a long, loose-fitting, hooded robe worn by both men and women. It is made of wool or cotton and comes in different colors and designs.If you prefer to pursue something different, it is very suitable for you.
Traditional Moroccan Clothing Shopping
There is some general information which can give you more feelings.
Where to buy
Souks and Markets:One of the best places to shop for traditional Moroccan clothing is in the local souks and markets. The souks are winding labyrinth-like streets that are filled with vendors selling all different types of goods, including traditional clothing. The markets are located in every Moroccan city, including Marrakech and Rabat.
Boutiques:Many designers have opened up boutiques throughout Morocco that offer a mix of traditional and modern styles. Boutiques may offer a wider range of sizes and styles than what can be found in souks. Boutiques can be found in the more upscale neighborhoods of major cities like Casablanca and Tangier.
What to look for
Traditional Moroccan clothing is known for its vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and flowing fabrics. The most iconic garment is the djellaba, a long hooded robe worn by both men and women. Other traditional Moroccan clothing includes the kaftan, a long dress with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt, and the takchita, a two-piece outfit typically consisting of a dress and a jacket.
It’s important to keep in mind the weather when choosing traditional Moroccan clothing. Many of the garments are made of light, breathable fabrics that are perfect for the hot Moroccan climate. Additionally, be prepared to negotiate.
Shopping Experiences
Shopping for traditional Moroccan clothingcan be a unique and enjoyable experience. The colorful and vibrant textiles and intricate patterns of Moroccan fashion are breathtaking. Visitors can explore the winding streets of Marrakech’s bustling souks, browse chic boutiques in upscale neighborhoods, or take a day trip to a nearby village to buy traditional handmade garments.
Visitors to the souks can experience the hustle and bustle of Moroccan markets while admiring the offerings of countless vendors. They can find traditional clothing styles in various colors, fabrics, and designs while engaging in the bargaining process, which is a common practice in Moroccan markets.
Boutiques offer an entirely different shopping experience, with a larger selection of sizes, styles, and options for more modern interpretations of traditional garments. You may choose to shop in a boutique instead of the market if you’re looking for more high-end and upscale clothing options.
No matter where you decide to shop, the Moroccan shopping experience is guaranteed to leave visitors with a deeper appreciation for the culture and fashion of the country.
Tips For Shopping Traditional Moroccan Clothing
- Choose the Right Market: The traditional markets or ‘souks’ in Morocco are known for their unique cultural offerings. Choose a market that is known for selling the best quality traditional costumes.
- The Right Material: Traditional Moroccan costumes are mainly made of silk, cotton, and linen. Always check the materials used before making a purchase.
- Bargain: Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets. Always ask for a lower price and try to negotiate while keeping the fair price in mind as a benchmark.
- Try Before You Buy: Make sure to try on the costume before purchasing it to ensure it fits comfortably and appears flattering.
- Accessories: Complete your traditional Moroccan outfit by purchasing accessories such as jewelry, shoes, and handbags from the markets.
- Check for Quality: Look for authentic and well-crafted designs with attention to detail.
- Time your Visit: Shop during the off-season for the best deals and bargains.
- Be Respectful: Remember to be respectful when negotiating and not lowball sellers too much.
- Ask Questions: Feel free to ask the vendor about the history and meaning behind the traditional costumes.
- Preserve Your Purchases: Once you’ve bought your traditional Moroccan costume, take proper care of it so that it stays in good condition.
Styles And Trends
Moroccan traditional costumes are known for their rich colors, intricate embroidery, and elegant designs. The traditional outfits differ between regions and exhibit their unique embroidery, print, or material. Here are a few styles and trends that are popular in Moroccan traditional costumes:
Caftans – The Caftan is the most popular traditional garment, made of silk, brocade or velvet, and embellished with metallic embroidery and beads. A caftan fits a Moroccan occasion like no other garment, with some even considered haute couture fashion.
Djellabas – Djellabas are long hooded robes with long sleeves that are commonly worn by men and women in Morocco. It can be worn as a casual dress or formal wear depending on the fabric and embroidery work.
Jebba – Jebbas are a traditional costume for Moroccan men, usually made of wool or cotton and featuring embroidery details on the sleeves and neckline.
Berber clothes – Each Berber tribe has its unique clothing style, a combination of buttons and delicate hand embroidery. They make use of natural materials like wool, leather, and silk for their clothing.
Patterns: –the Moroccan traditional costumes feature geometric designs, paisley and floral motifs, and bold colors. The prints carry a symbolic meaning that relates to Moroccan culture, beliefs, and traditions.
In recent times, designers have been able to integrate Moroccan traditional costumes into high fashion and modern western wear. The popularity of traditional Moroccan fashions is increasing globally, with new trends emerging every day.
Conclusion
In short, traditional Moroccan clothing shopping . Not only is traditional Moroccan clothing not just a transactional experience but a cultural one. It is an opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the country, as well as to support local artisans and small businesses.Also, it is an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the Moroccan culture and take home a piece of it with you.So why not have such an experience about it as long as you are ready for it?
FAQs
Did the Kaftan originate from Algeria or Morocco?
Actually, it is not clear to say that this costume originated from which places.Kaftan is traditional clothing that is worn in many countries in North Africa and the Middle East, including Algeria and Morocco. It can be said that it has become general clothing,and the garment has been worn for centuries in many cultures and has evolved in different regions.So you need not pay much attention to where Kaftan originated.
What do Moroccan girls wear on engagement day?
They wear Takchita.It can be in different color, it will cost 300$ and more.This kind of clothing will be the most usual that girls choose. It is worn for celebrations, particularly weddings.It is composed of two pieces, a dress as a first layer called “Tahtia”, often of fine but not ornately decorated fabric, and a more elaborate second layer or over-dress that often buttons up the front using the traditional sfifa and akaad closures and it is called “Dfina”. The upper layer is often richly adorned with embroidery, beading or sequins.
What is the difference between Djellaba and Kaftan?
Although they are similar, it can be judged by some specific details.The difference between the two is that the latter does not have a hood.Nor should the kaftan be confused with the belted two-piece takchita, truly elegant attire. The defining features of a kaftan are its long sleeves, often worn with heels given the length of the cut.So you can judge them from this part.