El Fenn, Marrakech’s landmark boutique hotel, has announced a new collaboration with iconic Italian fashion designer Romeo Gigli. Gigli, whose first Paris collection got a 25-minute standing ovation when it showed in 1989, has teamed up with El Fenn to showcase his first collection in over a decade. Featuring kaftans, jackets, dresses and shawls in the style reminiscent of his classic 1990’s designs, the collection is now available in store.
Gigli, who now resides in Marrakech, was renowned for his understated, feminine designs, and he brings these qualities to his latest collection – think dreamy lurex capes, statement kaftans and beautiful silk and brocade fabrics. Rather sweetly, shoppers can combine Gigli’s pieces with jewellery from his wife, Lara Arango’s range. The eye-catching, Dali-esque range is all hand-made and is exclusive to El Fenn.
Having begun life as a few shelves on the back wall of reception, El Fenn’s boutique now takes centre stage with its own entrance and stunning spiral staircase leading up to the roof terrace. Featuring an eclectic mix of handpicked products from both established and up-and-coming names on the Moroccan design scene, the boutique is a treasure trove of treats. Among the delights found in store are: limited edition kaftans, gandoras and jumpsuits from Norya Ayron’s atelier; contemporary modern crafts from Moro Marrakech; colorful clothing from US brand Res Ipsa whose products are made in Morocco; hand-woven shoes by Contre Allée from Casablanca; natural cosmetics and perfumes from Botanika Marrakech; a kaftan collection under El Fenn’s own brand; plus copious traditional artisanal home furnishings, many of which can be found in El Fenn’s own bedrooms.
El Fenn recently revealed the final stage of its grand expansion by introducing a further 10 bedrooms which sees the hotel connect with its Annex down the road to bring the entire hotel under one roof. A further addition is a new art installation by Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj featuring recycled food tins in multicolored pastel tones, alongside a wall of glass bottles inspired by the stained glass used throughout El Fenn. The new look El Fenn now boasts 41 rooms and offers guests a staggering two acres to call their home-from-home. Facilities abound with three swimming pools, a 1,300 sq. metre roof terrace with a rooftop restaurant, cocktail bar and the best views in town, a residents-only Colonnade Café, a stylish spa and of course a boutique.
Rates: A double room at El Fenn (el-fenn.com, Tel 00212 524 44 1210), including breakfast and afternoon tea, costs from €360 per night.
