Next Menswear in Marrakech

Craig of That Dapper Chap wears Next menswear in Marrakesh and gives us his top five things to do when you visit

In the last post featuring my trip to Marrakech I wore clothing by Burton Menswear, this time around the look is by Next and offers a more traditional British approach. Think 'An Englishman abroad' 

The flat lay of my Moroccan outfit, all from Next

This look is all about the 100% cotton light stone suit. Slim fit and breathable it works well in the Moroccan heat. What's more you don't need to just stop at the jacket and trousers as the suit is a mix and match suit and also comes with matching waistcoat and shorts!

The Jemaa El Fna Square as seen from a restaurant balcony

The tan leather weave loafers sitting on a Moroccan rug

For me footwear had to be the tan leather weave tassel loafers. At just £45.00 they are lightweight, comfortable, and look great with the suit. I did wear invisible socks with mine and while the shoes are cut quite low, the socks were not visible as they sometimes can be.

The sky blue linen shirt by Next

A closer look at the detailing of the linen shirt

The shirt again suits the Moroccan climate as it's 100% linen and the colour of summer skies. At £32.00 it's also available in a very nice grey. Okay so it might need a brief conversation with an iron when you unpack it, but that's the nature of linen and the benefits far outweigh the  hassle of pressing it, particularly if the manager of your Riad gets it done for you!

Stunning traditional Moroccan architecture can be found in the Riads

Beautiful souvenirs are on offer in the souks

Enjoying coffee and breakfast at our Riad

A panama hat is a good buy when visiting a hot country

Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the mid day sun, so they tell me, and when they do so they should most certainly wear a hat! This panama hat completes that vintage refinement that gentlemen of eras gone by would wear when exploring far off lands.

An Englishman abroad

Local people buying mint for their traditional mint tea

Time to put your feet up and relax

MY TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO MARRAKECH

1) Have a Hammam

Your skin will never be the same again! if you plan to sunbathe do this on your first day. Not only will it refresh you from your journey but it will remove ALL of your dead skin giving you a better tan. Sitting in a steam room you will be soaked, soaped, scrubbed and then covered in clay. It's an experience not to be missed.

Choose a cotton suit to keep you cool in the Moroccan sun

2) visit the Koutoubia Mosque

It's one of the most iconic buildings in Marrakech and is visible as a landmark from afar thanks to local laws that state that no buildings surrounding it will be taller than a palm tree.

Traditional horse drawn caleche on the way to the square

3) Enjoy cocktails at the Salama Sky Bar

With great views over Marrakech, the ambience and service are impeccable, and happy hour lasts all night. Relax to traditional music by candle light, watch the sun set and enjoy a belly dance. You might even get to join is!

The Salama Skybar at night

A closer look at the suit jacket

4) Visit the Jemaa El Fna Square during the day and at night

The square is one place you MUST visit, it's iconic and not to be missed. During the day you can buy from the market vendors or sit on a balcony at one of the many bars and restaurants that surround it, but at night the place comes alive with snake charmers, belly dancers and a carnival atmosphere.

Marrakech is a highly recommended city break

A look at the back of the suit

5) Visit the Souks

Take a deep breath and plunge into the maze that is the Marrakech souks. Haggle your heart out and grab a bargain. It's an experience not to be missed. Play the game and don't forget to do a sharp intake of breath when the vendor tells you their first price for that beautiful rug that you just must have! 

If you're worried you won't get it on the plane, don't fret, they can FedEx it to you!

A view of the Koutoubia Mosque 

Keeping cool in the Moroccan heat

On the balcony of our traditional Riad