If you’re a fashion aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, a trip to Marrakech isn’t complete without a visit to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum (Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech, or mYSLm). Nestled just steps away from the iconic Jardin Majorelle, this architectural gem is more than just a tribute to the legendary couturier—it’s a full sensory experience. And let me tell you, the museum shop? It’s the cherry on top of an already exquisite cake.
A Step Into Yves’ World
Walking into the Yves Saint Laurent Museum feels like stepping into a love letter to Morocco, penned by the designer himself. The building, designed by Studio KO, is a masterpiece of terracotta curves and cubic elegance, echoing the weave of fabric—a nod to Yves’ genius with textiles. Inside, the permanent exhibition dazzles with couture gowns, sketches, and accessories that span his 40-year career. But after soaking in all that inspiration, the shop beckons like a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
The Shop: Where Fashion Meets Souvenir
Located at the end of the museum’s exhibition path, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum shop isn’t your typical gift store. It’s a curated extension of the designer’s universe, blending Moroccan influences with his signature Parisian chic. The space itself feels intentional—think warm saffron-hued wicker furniture, Japanese-inspired curtains, and a minimalist vibe that keeps the focus on the goodies.
What’s on offer? Oh, where do I start? The shelves are lined with books that dive deep into Yves Saint Laurent’s legacy, from coffee-table tomes showcasing his runway collections to volumes on Moroccan culture and botany—subjects that fueled his creative fire. I couldn’t resist picking up a copy of Studio KO: Yves Saint Laurent Museum Marrakech, a gorgeous book chronicling the 1,423 days it took to bring this place to life. It’s the kind of keepsake that doubles as decor.
Then there are the postcards and posters—those iconic “LOVE” designs Yves sent out annually are reimagined here, perfect for framing or gifting. Jewelry lovers, take note: the shop features re-editions of pieces by Loulou de la Falaise, Yves’ muse and collaborator. Think bold, eclectic designs that mix semiprecious stones with a bohemian flair—pure YSL magic you can wear.
A Touch of Morocco
What I adored most was how the shop weaves in Morocco’s influence. Yves once said, “Marrakech taught me color,” and you feel that vibrancy here. There’s a selection of items that nod to the local culture—think Amazigh art references and botanical prints inspired by the nearby Jardin Majorelle, which Yves and his partner Pierre Bergé saved in 1980. I snagged a set of postcards featuring Jacques Majorelle’s landscapes (the artist behind the garden), a little piece of Marrakech to take home.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
The shop is cashless—credit cards only—so come prepared. Prices range from affordable (postcards start at a few dirhams) to splurge-worthy (those jewelry pieces and books can climb into the hundreds). It’s open during museum hours, Thursday to Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 5:30 p.m.), though it’s closed Wednesdays and adjusts slightly during Ramadan. Pro tip: pair your visit with a ticket to the Jardin Majorelle and Berber Museum for the full experience—combined tickets are around 315 MAD (about £25), a steal for the cultural immersion.
Why It’s Worth It
This isn’t just a shop—it’s a chance to bring home a slice of Yves Saint Laurent’s legacy. Whether you’re a die-hard fashionista or a curious traveler, there’s something here that captures the spirit of his love affair with Marrakech. For me, it was the perfect way to cap off a morning of marveling at his Mondrian dresses and sahariennes. I left with a bag of goodies, a head full of inspiration, and a newfound appreciation for how deeply Morocco shaped one of fashion’s greatest minds.
So, next time you’re in Marrakech, don’t skip the Yves Saint Laurent Museum shop. It’s more than a retail stop—it’s a stylish farewell to a man who turned fabric into art and a city into his muse.
