I received all sorts of discrepant advice before I was leaving as to what constituted appropriate attire for female travellers in this part of the world. There are many factors to keep in mind such as cultural respect, weather conditions, and discouraging unwanted attention. The US Department of State website mentions that verbal harassment of female travellers is fairly common in the country but for the most part, harmless. The environment and type of people you will encounter also varies significantly between different cities and more rural areas. Now, I saw a few tips on abiding strictly with long-sleeved loose tops and loose-fitted pants but I felt that this was often unnecessary.

Here are some basic tips based on my own experience:
1. Knees length or longer shorts/dresses, shoulders covered, and necklines should not dip too low. Don't wear anything particularly flashy or skimpy if you prefer not to get catcalls.
2. No clothes with loud phrases or symbols of sex or violence. This is rather instinctive for volunteers working with children anyway.
3. Bring/buy a few scarves/shawls. They were great for amping up an outfit and convenient for situations where more coverage felt necessary.
4. My personal preference for daily outfits was basic black leggings matched with long tops. This was the most agreeable outfit in the sweltering temperature and was also comfortable for a high level of physical activities. The weather was too hot for jeans.
5. Cotton is the most breathable material and hassle-free to clean and hand wash.
6. Sneakers, flats, and sandals were all acceptable as long as they were easy to walk in.
7. Sunglasses were essential (protection from UV rays and no accidental eye contact). I have mixed feelings about big floppy hats which are great for keeping out the sun but simultaneously draw attention to you as a tourist.
8. Many of the volunteers wore maxi dresses or knee length dresses paired with shawls for evening attire and encountered no problems.
9. Tank tops, short-shorts, and miniskirts should be reserved only for beaches and hotel pools. Wear a more substantial outfit when you are traveling to and from these activities.

Demeanor and behaviour
I frequently ventured about Marrakech, both in the medina and in new town on my own and was able to blend in fairly comfortably. Most people were quite polite and helpful. In fact, I found that if I wasn't in a loud pack of excited volunteers, it was easier to avoid undesirable comments and attention. However, during evenings and any time after dark, I would still say it's best to bring along at least one or two companions. I found that most locals in Essaouira were also friendly and unaggressive. It was in Fes that I had a more intense experience and encountered persistent harassment. I didn't stray away from fellow traveller companions out of safety precautions there.
Overall, if you maintain a respectful attitude and a good sense of humour, these daily encounters are not difficult to handle.

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