|
Moroccan fashion is a rich tapestry of heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural diversity, reflecting deep-rooted influences from Berber, Arab, and Andalusian traditions, as well as the distinctive character of each Moroccan region.
The coastal city of MOGADOR (now Essaouira) has been a significant contributor to this heritage, known historically as a thriving port that connected Morocco to Europe, sub-Saharan Africa, and beyond. This unique blend of influences has created an iconic style that embodies Morocco’s vibrant cultural legacy. Moroccan textiles are central to this legacy, with time-honored techniques in weaving, dyeing, and embroidery passed down through generations. Patterns and motifs, such as the bold, earthy colors of Berber rugs and the intricate geometric zellige tilework found throughout Moroccan architecture, have inspired modern Moroccan fashion and continue to echo Mogador’s artistic influence. Jewelry, too, holds deep cultural significance, particularly the intricate silver pieces traditionally worn by Berber women, adorned with amber, coral, and turquoise stones, each symbolizing protection, health, and spirituality—values cherished in Mogador’s rich heritage. Today, Moroccan fashion designers are blending these traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics, sharing Morocco’s cultural artistry with a global audience. MOGAD'OR seeks to bring this vision to life, combining Mogador’s enduring heritage with current fashion trends. Each piece of clothing or jewelry created is more than a fashion statement; it is a tribute to the history, identity, and beauty of Mogador’s diverse cultural influences. Curators: Raja Felgata & Karima Ahmadouch / Alwan Styling |
“Mijn wortels liggen niet alleen in Essaouira (Mogador), maar ook in Ounagha, dat 35 kilometer verderop ligt. (De verwijzing naar ‘35’ in de volksmond komt voort uit deze verbinding, en is ook terug te zien in de tribal tekening boven het logo.) Als kind bracht ik vele zomers door in Ounagha met mijn zusjes, broertje en ouders. Het is het land van mijn voorouders, trots en vol geschiedenis. Deze regio is rijk aan arganbomen, bossen, cultuur en sterke vrouwen. Hun verhalen geven mij veel kracht, en Ounagha stroomt altijd door mijn aderen. Het vormt mij tot wie ik ben: een fluïde Marokkaanse vrouw die cultuur en mode met elkaar verbindt om (visuele) verhalen te vertellen.”
Raja Felgata “My roots lie not only in Essaouira (Mogador) but also in Ounagha, which is 35 kilometers away. (The reference to ‘35’ in popular usage comes from this connection and can also be seen in the tribal design above the logo.) As a child, I spent many summers in Ounagha with my sisters, brother, and parents. It is the land of my ancestors, proud and full of history. This region is rich in argan trees, forests, culture, and strong women. Their stories give me a lot of strength, and Ounagha flows through my veins. It shapes me into who I am: a fluid Moroccan woman who connects culture and fashion to tell (visual) stories.” Raja Felgata |
|
|
|
Mogador is the historical name of the coastal city now known as Essaouira, located in western Morocco. The name “Mogador” is believed to have originated from the Phoenician word “Migdol,” meaning “small fortress” or “watchtower.” The city was known as Mogador during the colonial period and in various historical accounts, particularly when it served as a strategic port and cultural hub connecting Morocco with Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.