What to Wear in Morocco: Outfit Guide for Female Travellers
Wandering the alleys of Ait Ben Haddou in Morocco.
Packing for Morocco can feel confusing. You want to stay cool in the desert heat, warm in the Atlas Mountains, comfortable for long days exploring, and stylish for those Instagram-worthy medina photos - all while respecting Morocco’s conservative culture.
After my trip across Morocco, here’s the ultimate guide on what to wear in Morocco as a woman - complete with outfit inspiration for different regions and seasons.
Understanding Morocco’s Dress Code
Morocco is a Muslim-majority country with modest dress expectations, especially for women.
You don’t need to cover your hair (headscarves are optional).
Covering shoulders, cleavage, and knees is recommended to avoid unwanted attention in rural and cultural areas.
Loose, breathable fabrics are best - and you’ll blend in more easily.
Layering is essential. Morocco’s weather swings from hot days to cool nights.
Outfit Essentials for Morocco
Tops
Lightweight blouses or t-shirts (covering shoulders).
Long-sleeve tunics for cooler evenings.
Flowy shirts that are breathable but modest.
Bottoms
Maxi skirts and dresses (great for photos in Chefchaouen).
Loose linen trousers or culottes.
Avoid short shorts - save them for the beach resorts.
Jumpsuits and playsuits are Instagram-friendly and wind-friendly.
Outerwear
Light cardigan (easy to throw on in conservative areas).
Warm jacket, fleece or puffer for the Atlas Mountains (yes, it gets cold!).
Shoes
Comfortable walking sandals (Birkenstock-style).
Closed walking shoes/sandshoes for medinas.
Hiking boots if you’re tackling the Atlas Mountains.
Accessories
A scarf (handy for sun, sand, wind, or visiting religious sites).
Daypack.
Wide-brim hat and sunglasses for the Sahara.
Making friends with street cats in the blue streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco.
What to Wear in Morocco by Destination
Marrakech
Think breathable fabrics that can handle the heat while keeping you covered.
👉 Outfit idea: maxi dress + scarf + sandals.
Photo tip: Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby pop against intricate Moroccan tiles.
Chefchaouen
Every photographer’s dream! Cooler in the mountains, perfect for colourful photos against the blue walls. Discover Why Chefchaouen Deserves a Spot on Your Moroccan Bucket List.
👉 Outfit idea: flowy maxi dress + scarf for layering + sandshoes.
Photo tip: Colour is key. Choose white, yellow or orange to pop against the blue walls.
Sahara Desert
Daytime is hot, nights get chilly. Pack layers.
👉 Outfit idea: wide-leg pants + breathable top + scarf + fleece/jacket for evenings.
Photo tip: Whites, neutrals and black contrast beautifully with the dunes.
Fes
A more conservative city, expect more attention.Be prepared for Fes by learning about Common Scams in Morocco (And How to Avoid Them).
👉 Outfit idea: linen trousers or maxi skirt + blouse + comfortable sandshoes.
Photo tip: Comfort is key exploring the Medina. Bring sun protection to take in the views from rooftop restaurants.
Atlas Mountains & Midelt
Cooler temperatures year-round. Expect windy and rugged conditions.
👉 Outfit idea: leggings + long sleeve top + fleece + hiking boots.
Photo tip: Earthy tones like olive, beige, or rust blend beautifully with the rocky landscapes.
Ait Ben Haddou
The clay architecture and dusty allleys call for outfits that are comfortable and dust-friendly.
👉 Outfit idea: neutral-toned skirt + lightweight blouse + sturdy sandals or sandshoes.
Photo tip: Golden hour is the best time to shoot here.
Meeting camels in the Sahara Desert in Morocco.
What to Wear by Season in Morocco
Spring (Mar-May): Light layers, perfect weather.
Summer (Jun-Aug): Loose, breathable fabrics, sun protection.
Autumn (Sep-Nov): Similar to spring, with cooler nights.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Warm layers, especially in the Atlas Mountains and desert nights.
Morocco Female Packing List
Maxi dresses & skirts (photo-friendly + modest)
Wide-leg trousers & culottes
Lightweight tops with sleeves
Scarf or shawl (for sun, modesty, & photos)
Light jacket/fleece for mountains & desert nights
Comfortable walking shoes (trainers, sandals)
Hat & sunglasses
Swimwear (for riads with pools & coastal towns… wear only at hotels/beaches, not public areas)
Small crossbody bag for exploring souks
Extra Tips for Dressing in Morocco
Layers are essential: Hot days, cool nights.
Scarves do it all: Sunshade, modesty cover, headwrap in the desert, and a fashion accessory.
Blend in respectfully: You’ll avoid unwanted attention and feel more at ease.
Shop locally: Morocco is the perfect place to pick up a colourful kaftan or handwoven scarf.
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.
FAQs About Dressing in Morocco
Can women wear shorts in Morocco?
Shorts are accepted in most major cities, though not recommended in rural and cultural areas - you’ll stand out and attract attention. Opt for skirts or lightweight trousers.
Do I need to wear a headscarf in Morocco?
No. Headscarves are optional for travellers, though handy for sun protection, sand, or visiting mosques.
What shoes should I bring for Morocco?
Walking shoes are essential - many medinas have cobbled streets. Add sandals for heat and hiking boots if heading to the mountains.
Can I wear leggings in Morocco?
Yes, but pair them with a long top or tunic that covers your hips when in rural or cultural areas.
How do I dress stylishly but respectfully?
Choose flowy maxi dresses, colourful scarves, and bold jewellery - stylish yet modest.
Dressing for Morocco doesn’t mean sacrificing style - in fact, it’s the perfect chance to experiment with flowy dresses, colourful scarves, and photo-worthy outfits that keep you cool and comfortable.
👉 Ready to pack? Grab my Ultimate Guide to Morocco (with a 14 day Morocco itinerary included!) and check out What to Eat in Morocco to make sure you don’t forget a thing.