Contemporary by Marrakech - an Exclusive Event at Mayfair’s Sketch

It’s renowned for ‘souks and soothsayers’, ‘Kasbahs and kaftans’ but few think of Morocco as a modern destination.

On behalf of the Moroccan Tourism Board, ‘CONTEMPORARY by Marrakech’ will unveil collections from some of the country’s most contemporary fashion designers and communicate Morocco’s modern messages during an exclusive event at Mayfair’s Sketch on Monday 20th November 2006.

Reminiscent of its hedonistic heydays, Marrakech is back in fashion and can now be seen welcoming some of the world’s leading hotels and designer brands. It is praised for its adherence to old customs and its respect for architecture, but Morocco is more cutting edge than you’d imagine and Moroccan fashion has much more to offer then the humble fez.

In recent years, Morocco’s tourism has grown dramatically and it has become a favourite amongst UK travellers, due mainly to its proximity, antiquated culture and the country’s new tourism strategy, which, inline with the open skies agreement aims to welcome 10 million tourists per year by 2010.

Ali Kasmi, Director of the Moroccan Tourism Board commented. “We are delighted that so many people appreciate the authenticity of our country and enjoy its traditions. Whilst these elements are important to us too, we now want to celebrate and demonstrate the changes and developments taking shape in our country. Fashion is just one of the areas which has been modernised by fresh talent.”

The party will be kicked off by Pacha Marrakech’s resident DJ, who will also be providing the music for the girls from Britain’s Next Top Model who’ll be hitting the runway in creations by Morocco’s most respected designers; Kenza Melehi, Mohammed Lakhadar, Albert Oiknine and Myriam Kettani.