A summer breeze blowing this week in The French Makers ! Remember 10 days ago when I took you behind the scenes of the umbrella factory Piganiol, (Oh the madness and desperation !) But then I decided to take my weather-dependent mood into my own hands and set off for a long weekend in Marrakech. With the 28 degrees at my arrival and a brightness that I hadn’t seen since Los Angeles  last August ! I was immediately disconnected! But not entirely… Since I have become a true detector of the French know-how wherever I go… I still enjoyed the tajine, mint tea and Moroccan pastries. Although I paid my honor to the local artisans by buying my raffia beach bag for this summer… I also went on the hunt for French creations. And I can say that they light up the red city! To begin with…

The jardin Majorelle ! 

This little marvel of serenity owes its name to the French painter Louis Majorelle.

In 1931 he requested from the architect, Paul Sinoir (also a Frenchman!), a painting studio in Art Deco style which he later painted in the famous Majorelle blue.

I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love it ! Another big surprise: the exotic plants and hundreds of cactuses all around that he brought back from his travels.

After the passing of the painter, the garden was bought by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé ! It was in this garden that the designer spent his holidays and where he drew most of his collections

Fun fact :

Every year, Yves Saint Laurent sent to his family  and clients a greeting card which he made himself with the word “LOVE”.

You can find all of them exposed in the tiny gallery located behind Maison Majorelle. A captivation of colors and creativity !

Okay now, a short visit to the shop and I head next door for the brand new…

Yves Saint Laurent Museum Marrakech :

It is literally the most attractive destination at the moment. The line in front of the museum is huge! It’s better to arrive before the opening if you don’t want to spend an hour on the sidewalk! I took the opportunity to take some pictures and read “The studio Yves Saint Laurent” Mirror and Secrets… to get in the mood. Loved this book!

In the first room “Yves Saint Laurent”, no photos were allowed. However, this one was taken during my visit to the YSL museum in Paris. It captures perfectly what I could see inside. (Besides, this cape must have been brought to Paris because I spotted it in Marrakech!). There were many of his creations, but also some quotes projected on the walls. You can even hear his voice from one of his famous interviews broadcasted in the room.

“Until then, I was making a lot of black. Marrakech opened my eyes to colours !” YSL

For the rest, I was able to bring out my camera… While visiting the museum, you will come across a small gallery which devotes the place every year for a different photographer who was connected to the designer. I loved this picture of Catherine Deneuve. First because I want this haircut right now, and second, the jacket! Breathtaking, isn’t it? I couldn’t even imagine the hours of work it took at the time in the Lesage workshops.

Iris jacket tribute to Van Gogh, haute couture Spring/Summer 1988. Photo: André Rau

The sketches room reminds us that Yves Saint Laurent also designed for ballets, theater, cinema and the Music-hall. In the brand-new auditorium, you can enjoy a 12-minute movie about YSL’s career. And for a coffee break, you can head to “Le Studio” to stay in the mood.

The visit was rather fast, but I’m absolutely in love. I have unlimited admiration for all Saint-Laurent’s creations. Now it’s time to go for an aperitif. Next stop…

The mythical Mamounia !

I don’t think I need to make any introductions as this palace is well known around the world. Don’t forget to check out the ceiling of the living room and admire it, decorated by the painter Louis Majorelle. (Yes again!)

Ending the day between traditional Moroccan and chic à la Française? That’s possible with…

The hotel Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa :

Special note for the breakfast that mixes croissants, fresh baguettes and traditional Moroccan pastries.

Even my fruit cocktail has its little French macaroon! Alright now I’ll leave you. I’m going for a dip before returning to Paris !

My adresseses :

• The jardin Majorelle :  Rue Yves Saint Laurent (Open daily from 8am to 5.30pm)
• Yves Saint Laurent Museum Marrakech : Rue Yves Saint Laurent (10h-18h / closed on Wednesday) www.museeyslmarrakech.com
• The Mamounia : www.mamounia.com
• Hôtel Sofitel Marrakech : Rue Haroun Errachid, Quartier de l’hivernage – Marrakech – www.sofitel.com
• Restaurant dar Moha : To eat by the pool in the former residence of designer Pierre Balmain. www.darmoha.ma