Morocco is one of those places I have always wanted to visit, but with a tight annual holiday allowance and limited budget, easy beach holidays to Cape Verde have won over the past couple of years. So I felt super lucky when New Look invited me to view their high summer 2015 collection out in Marrakech.
Dress, Zara
Now, aside from the amazing interiors opportunities, (I'm currently renovating a 1930s house and the rugs, fabrics, lighting and trinkets in the souks of Marrakech are just outrageously good!) the Moroccan sun and vibrant setting was the perfect backdrop for my collection of printed dresses, embellished sandals and summer jewels.
This Miss Selfridge necklace has been tucked away in my summer 'to wear' pile for weeks.
El Fenn riad is an absolute treasure. Set right on the edges of the Medina and a stones throw from endless souks, it's been the go-to haunt of those in-the-know since its opening in 2004. Aside from stunning rooms (mine had a pink marble bath), famous cocktails (everyone raves about their mojitos), yummy food and a great rooftop, El Fenn has pet tortoises, who happily wander around the courtyards, or nestle beside the open fires day and night.
This little chap took a liking to my bejewelled New Look sandals. (Soft suede, very comfy and in store now FYI!)
Keeping Moroccan evenings relaxed in a New Look off the shoulder top, Massimo Dutti silk trousers, Meli Melo clutch and Swedish Hasbeens.
Bikini, scarf, bag, all New Look
El Fenn rooftop.
A lovely touch by New Look, personalised embroidered pouches with sunscreen inside.
Another top tip for Marrakech is Le Pause. Set out in the desert about thirty minutes from town this little oasis is where New Look presented their high summer collection. Under the stars we took in the fashion, food and scenery. A must-visit.
The gang out in the desert at Le Pause.
New Look's 'Magical Marrakech' collection is inspired by Moroccan colours, traditional tile prints and fabrics of the souks.
My final two Marrakech tips are the YSL gardens and Sahara Palace.
Majorelle Garden was designer Yves Saint Laurent's haven. When he wasn't preparing or showcasing his collections, he would retreat to his holiday home in the grounds of these gardens for some much needed peace and quiet. Well, what can I say other than the gardens are just so beautiful, and I can only imagine the joy he took in spending so much downtime here.
