Marrakesh, nicknamed the “Red City,” captivates the senses with its vibrant colours, rich culture, and mesmerising beauty. As the sun sets over the Atlas Mountains, the sky dazzles with a display of stars that has inspired artists, designers, and fashionistas for generations, influencing how we create and perceive fashion, art, and design.
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most iconic images of Marrakesh at night. Standing over 70 meters tall, this architectural masterpiece has been a city symbol for over 800 years. At night, its intricate carvings and delicate arches are illuminated with soft, golden light, inspiring countless artists and designers who have recreated its beauty in their works.
Marrakesh’s fashion scene has also been influenced by its starry nights. The djellaba, a long, flowing garment worn by both men and women, is one of the most famous pieces of Moroccan clothing. Made from light, breathable fabrics, it is perfect for the warm climate of Marrakesh. Its unique design has inspired fashion designers worldwide, such as Yves Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney, who have reinterpreted and adapted it to fit modern fashion trends while still paying homage to its Moroccan roots.
Moroccan jewellery is known for its intricate designs and bold use of colour, often featuring bright stones and intricate metalwork. Many jewellery designers have incorporated celestial motifs, such as stars, moons, and constellations, inspired by the starry nights of Marrakesh. These pieces, made from precious metals and stones, are highly sought after by fashion-conscious consumers.
Marrakesh’s artists have used the night sky’s deep blues, purples, and blacks to create stunning paintings and sculptures. Mohamed Melehi, a Moroccan artist, often incorporates these colours into his work, creating abstract pieces that evoke the feeling of gazing up at the stars. Henri Matisse, a French painter who spent much time in Morocco, was drawn to Moroccan textiles’ vibrant colours and patterns. He used them in his famous painting “La Danse,” celebrating Moroccan culture’s joy and joy vibrancy.
Marrakesh’s starry nights have also influenced the city’s architecture and interior design. Many traditional riads feature open courtyards that allow the stars to be seen from within. Modern architecture and interior design have been influenced, such as the Yves Saint Laurent Museum’s striking black-and-white facade inspired by traditional Moroccan textile patterns.
