Tuesday, December 25, 2007

How They Wear it: Queen Lalla Salma of Morocco

The flame-haired Princess Lalla Salma of Morocco is not only one of the Middle East’s most glamorous humanitarian campaigners, but at 29, also one of its youngest royal consorts. After graduating with a degree in computer science she wed King Mohammed VI in 2002. In February of this year she gave birth to her second child, Princess Lalla Khadija. Like Queen Rania of Jordan, who has long been a figure-head for women's rights in the Arab world, Lalla Salma is paving the way for women's advancement herself, by being the first female member of the Moroccan royal family to have been publicly acknowledged and given a royal title. Today she uses her enhanced profile to support charities such as one for cancer research, as well as promote Moroccan interests abroad.

She is frequently seen at state functions and royal banquets in sumptuously embroidered caftans. On other official occasions she dons beautifully constructed Chanel and Valentino suits. She tends to go for more classic pieces that are altered slightly (the lengthening of a skirt hem, or covering of the shoulders) to adhere to Islamic customs modesty.

Clockwise: With her sister in law Princess Lalla Meryem wearing richly embroidered caftans; In Valentino couture Fall 2004; Often eclipsing the women in western dress, she attended a dinner at Versailles in an embroidered silk and chiffon caftan; in a Valentino couture coat, Fall 2004.

© THE POLYGLOT (all rights reserved) CHICAGO-PARIS

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