Badia Tazi is a Moroccan jewellery and accessories designer with a backstory that’s as intriguing as her pieces. She was born and grew up in the feudal opulence of Tazi Palace in Rabat, surrounded by awe-inspiring architecture and art, and living alongside members of the royal family – many of whom remain loyal customers to this very day.
I’m wearing a kaftan by Kukhareva London, swimwear by Lavishly Appointed and a clutch by Badia Tazi
From an early age she was drawn to the precious metals and exquisite craftsmanship of the local artisans that surrounded the region, while her early life in an area considered an architectural gemstone inspired her passion to create. Over fifty years ago Badia set up her atelier, and she still uses the same traditional manufacturing methods to create bespoke and truly unique pieces of art.
Expertly crafted metal ornamentation, the purest Swarovski crystals and rhinestones adorn most of her accessories, so it’s hardly surprising that Moroccan brides flock to her. Visitors to the region often use the palace (which has been transformed into a luxury 5-star hotel) as a venue for tying the knot.
Badia’s brand has expanded to incorporate all manner of traditional bridal garb, specialising in ‘amarias’ (ornate roofed platforms used by brides during wedding parties), as well as all the other jewellery expected to be worn by brides and bridesmaids during official ‘Berza’ ceremonies. Badia is now considered one of the most skilled bridal jewellery makers in the country, with many of her pieces made specifically to correspond with the traditional kaftans of Morocco’s most prestigious couturiers.
On my most recent trip to Marrakesh, I fell deeply in love with her evening bag collection. During a dinner at the Royal Mansour I spotted a concession of Badia’s designs near the entrance and decided I absolutely had to speak with the bags’ designer. Upon hearing her story, the rarity and opulence of her accessories made even more sense!
Each piece is hand-made and unique with the finest attention to detail. Many of them reflect the decadent glamour of a bygone era such as the 1920’s. The detail is incredible – tiny crystals are embedded into dainty and lady-like purses, complete with velvet linings and delicate chain straps, while customary Arabic motifs pay homage to the designer’s rich cultural heritage.
