The Moroccan caftan took center stage during an African fashion show held on Wednesday evening in Paris as part of the Africa Week of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The caftan, a traditional garment that is a living expression of Moroccan identity and the most eloquent demonstration of the skill and craftsmanship of Moroccan maâlems, captivated with its beauty, refinement, and glamour a large audience of diplomats, including Ambassador Samir Addahre, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to UNESCO, artists, designers, international personalities, and journalists.
After the Mali fashion show kicked off the event, the Moroccan caftan took over in its various forms to loud applause and cheers from an ecstatic crowd. Designed by Moroccan stylist Nissrine Zaki, the models took the audience on a journey through time, from a traditional garment that represents a living national heritage that transcends centuries while retaining its authentic charm. In an interview with MAP, Nissrine Zaki expressed her honor in representing Morocco at this UNESCO event. “It is a very important event because we are here to defend our heritage and legacy, which is the Moroccan caftan,” she said.
Her collection showcases a beautiful mix of modern and antique caftans, some nearly 100 years old, she noted, adding that one of the caftans displayed at the show is entirely woven in gold and passed down from generation to generation. The fashion show also represents the different regions of the Kingdom in their most beautiful authentic jewelry, Zaki added, noting that this colorful show is a story that unfolds from beginning to end. “We start from the era of the Merinids, the heyday of the Moroccan caftan, to the present day to demonstrate how Moroccans have protected their heritage and preserved this authentic traditional beauty that has evolved over time while retaining its authenticity,” she explained.
Held on May 22-24, UNESCO’s Africa Week 2024 offers an eclectic program of exhibitions, youth workshops, conferences and debates, artistic events, and tastings of authentic African cuisine. The opening ceremony of the week was marked by Moroccan music from Daqqa Marrakchia and Reggada, in the presence of Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, the guest of honor of the event, Ambassador Samir Addahre, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to UNESCO, and Ambassador of HM the King in Paris Samira Sitaïl, accompanied by African ministers, ambassadors, and senior officials of the UN organization.
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