A Moroccan's Opinion on Fashion

I think there is significantly more American influence on my Generation's fashion than ever before. I never saw more people wearing G-Unit (50Cents Hip-Hop Record Label) clothing in one place before I went to Morocco last summer. As far as religious clothing, I think it is now used more as of a fashion statement, especially from a musical taste point of view, than it is for prayer or religious holidays. The "Tagiyya", which is the thin bowl-likehead cap, can be a sign of Rock and/or Metal music influence; Whereas the"Jellaba", which is the long hooded shirt/dress, can signify Reggae,Gnawa, and/or Soul music influence.

Moroccans of my generation in general, across all economical and social layers, pay very close attention to fashion. In most cases, people preview each other under the perception of what you wear is what you are.So the more expensive the clothes, and the more famous the designer, the more highly regarded you are. There is actually a saying that "people can tell what kind of person you are by looking at your shoes".

My parent's generation I think is more religious in general and that reflects on the clothing. But I think also part of it is the lack of fashion options and awareness some 30 years ago.

As a recovering from occupancy 3rd world country (after 1950s) my parents generation was mostly poor; and the media infrastructure was not open and accessible enough to allow American and European fashion to leak in.

Currently, it costs a quarter of a dollar to spend an hour at a cybercafe in Morocco, so fashion access/influence is affordable by all.Also the number of Moroccan emigrants especially in Europe has increased dramatically. And most of them go back to the old country every take down their closets with them, and leave half of it to their cousins on the way back. So I see Morocco as a geographically strategic fashion consumer.

The higher society layers actually do most of their clothes shopping in Spain, Italy, and France (especially Paris).

Morocco is more famous for its Couscous than for its Jellaba so most of our fashion and clothing is imported.Right now the "Keftan" the modern women dress formerly worn in holidays and parties is fully exported to Europe (especially Paris) where it is taking part of "high couture" clientele’s interest, and is a big Défilée topic.

~~ZAK