Yves Saint Laurent is synonymous with Marrakech. His house is one of the most visited places in Marrakech. The blue masterpiece and exotic planting at Majorelle Gardens were his home for many years. He had a love affair with Morocco, with the colours and the textures of the country.
The new museum is a presentation of his work over his career. It is a space which absorbs you into the world of YSL. The main presentation room of the museum (which does not allow photographs) is breathtaking. The beauty of not allowing photographs is that this room is a wonderful surprise. I was lucky to be able to explore the space in relative calm. I had more than enough space and time to really get up close to the clothing to see the full detail. The influence of travel and art are evident is YSL’s creations which were amazing to see.
The fabrics are just stunning, detailed and so richly coloured. The mannequins are elegant, wearing clothes which have so much history and pieces that have influenced the whole of fashion. Along with clothing YSL’s prints and sketches are on display. I was so envious of his sketches, there’s such a sense of movement and life in his sketches. He could perfectly capture a creation in a simple sketch.
The museum was designed by Studio KO who are an architecture studio based in Hong Kong. The firm has said that “The outside of the building is intended to evoke the weft and warp of fabric while the interior is designed to evoke the lining of a couture jacket, velvety, smooth and radiant”.
To further explore the history of the label, there is an auditorium showing a film focused on YSL and his work in Marrakech.
The museum is perfectly formed with a lovely cafe leading to the courtyard called Le Studio Cafe. You should make a point to visit, it will give you a great view of the back of the museum and it’s a nice respite before heading back to the heat and craziness of Marrakech.
Visiting the museum.
The museum is next door to Majorelle Gardens in the new town of Marrakech, a taxi there should cost around 40DH. Every taxi driver will know Majorelle Gardens so it is an easy trip.
Open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Except for Wednesdays
Last admission: 5:30 pm
During Ramadan
From: 10 am to 5 pm
Last admission: 4:30 pm
Admission fee: 100 DH
Admission fee from Moroccan citizens and residents: 60 DH
Visit the website at https://www.museeyslmarrakech.com/en