What to pack for a winter escape to Morocco?
Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.


Morocco is a perfect escape for those seeking winter sun. Over the years I have been lucky enough to travel there several times for photoshoots and have fallen in love with the place, so I will be going to Marrakech purely for a holiday for the first time with my boyfriend. I’m looking forward to channelling Talitha Getty while shopping in the souks, wandering through the Majorelle Gardens and admiring the views of the Atlas Mountains from the rooftops.
Hermès Rouge Hermès lip care balm

A lip balm has always been one of my in-the-bag essentials. This stylish, refillable balm by Hermès is great as it has a fine, soft texture that gently moisturises. I hate sticky lip balms and this formula gives non-gloopy nourishment thanks to the high concentration of bees and candelilla wax. £58, hermes.com
Re/Done wool-mix 50s V-neck cardigan

Vertical stripes are going to be big news for SS23. Huge! Start on it now with this plum-hued cardigan by Re/Done. On daytime explorations, I plan to tie it around my shoulders (another trend for SS23) à la Brideshead, while in the evenings, I’ll layer it on for warmth. £550, shoperedone.com
Manolo Blahnik calf-hair zebra-print slides

A highlight of a sunny winter escape is being able to wear summer sandals in winter. I am an animal-print devotee and these zebra print slides are perfect for long Medina walks and lounging around the Beldi Country Club. For cooler evenings, I’ll pack some cashmere socks to pair with them (a favourite aesthetic of mine). Raey and Pantherella have great options. £545, manoloblahnik.com
Levi’s denim Made & Crafted full-flare jeans

I’m never without denim on any trip – it’s even great for flying and I choose denim over joggers any day! I intend to pair these high-waisted flared Levi’s with the souvenir T-shirts and billowy shirts I buy from the local markets, thus creating my version of boho 2.0. £150, levi.com
Prism San Francisco sunglasses

I have been obsessed with this round retro shape ever since I first saw Kurt Cobain in a white pair, and these clear rose frames from Prism give the trend a 2020s update. Not only will they protect my eyes on my upcoming desert tour, they’re also perfect for concealing sleepy eyes on that early morning Heathrow trip. £210, prismlondon.com
Mulberry nappa leather Big Softie bag

For all the glassware, jewellery and babouches that I intend to accumulate, I will need the support of a great bag. It’ll also act as a beacon thanks to its bright-orange hue, making it easy for my boyfriend to spot me in the busy souks. £1,195, mulberry.com
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