WORDS BY KATIE HILL
Picture this. You’re kicking back on a sunset terrace — the heady anticipation of the night to come is in the air and a glass of champagne is gently effervescing in your hand. Casablanca clothing can take you there, plane ticket or not.
Launched by Charaf Tajer in 2018, this label pays homage to the designer’s dual heritage. Growing up in Morocco before moving to Paris, Tajer’s style simultaneously conjures up the colours of spice markets, mosaic walls and the clay courts of Stade Roland Garros. Cutting his teeth as the co-creator of streetwear label Pigalle whilst also consulting for Virgil Abloh, the Casablanca clothing founder mixes fresh tennis whites with refined yet relaxed tailoring.
Casablanca is all about the ‘après-sport’ vibe with tennis club prints, silk and linen fabrics and relaxed fits. The brand’s shirts have become their signature piece with retro vibes, confident colours and always unexpected prints. If you’re wondering how this look translates to everyday life, we’ve got the answers for you. We asked seven style-savvy gents to try out the label’s printed shirts and tell us their thoughts on sizing, styling and more.
Sangiev Sriskumar (@sangiev)
Based in the UK
What do you love about Casablanca?
It’s fresh, playful and has a luxurious & ‘boujee’ feel to it without the extortionate price tag.
Tell us about why you chose the Casablanca striped trim shirt?
Have you seen the shirt?! The colours are incredible, and I love the illustrations giving me a fifties throwback vibe. I’m also a sucker for lightweight shirts, especially during summer. There’s nothing better than throwing on a shirt, having a ridiculous number of buttons undone (if you were to wear it without a top underneath) and letting your jewellery complement the outfit. It’s also one of those shirts that screams summer, which I immediately associate with a good time!
Styling:
I’m wearing the shirt with a pair of vintage flared trousers, and some brown boots. I love the way the colours merge together, sticking with a ‘70s vibe. I’m very big on jewellery, so when wearing such a loud shirt, I try to tone down the rest of the outfit and let the chains, rings & bracelets complement it. To me it’s a perfect holiday shirt, but I can also wear it on a date or a night out if I switch up the other elements of the outfit.
Size & Fit:
(Height: 5ft 8, Size M)
I stayed true to size with a size M and I’d like to think it has the intended fit, granted I’ve packed on some lockdown pudge so once we’re back in the gym, it should look even better. Comfort-wise — I like flowy and lightweight shirts, so this is right up my alley.
Any style & fit advice?
Make sure you’re happy with the way it sits on your shoulders, everything else can be tailored to your preference. Casablanca shirts are, in my opinion, versatile and easy to style. You could pair with black skinny jeans for that rockstar look or wear with wide trousers and opt for more of a ‘lounge’ vibe.
Casablanca boat print short-sleeved shirt
Gregory DelliCarpini Jr (@gregoryvelvet)
Based in New York
What do you love about Casablanca?
I love the carefree attitude of the brand. Wearing Casablanca makes me feel as though I am on permanent vacation in the Mediterranean. The look is effortless and cool. It can be dressed up or down and can easily go from the beach to having dinner overlooking the sunset. It is the kind of brand you wear, and everyone will ask — ‘who made that shirt?’ The prints are bold but not too in your face. The brand represents a kind of nonchalant attitude I aim to have.
Tell us about why you chose the Casablanca boat print short-sleeved shirt?
I am obsessed with summer. But who isn’t really? Maybe Santa? This boat shirt depicts the epitome of the perfect summer day. A day spent on a boat tanning and having wine is the best way to summer in my opinion. However, since I don’t own a boat and can’t always be on one, wearing this shirt is the next best thing. It gives me all the sea feels on a daily basis. It is the most beautiful shade of blue and adds such a fun pop to any look. It makes me feel like I am by the ocean, even if I am taking a meeting in NYC.
Styling:
I kept the style simple. I love pairing things down in the summer and keeping my look casual. I have styled the shirt with a pair of silk shorts also from Casablanca. This look is something I would wear to lunch or to dinner. I also added in some pearls because why not?!
Size & Fit:
(Height 5ft 8, Size S)
They run true to size. The shirt makes you want to stand by a breeze 24/7 and let the silk dance. It is so comfortable and light. You can’t go wrong with silk.
Any style & fit advice?
I would say let your inner fantasies fly free when looking to purchase from this brand. Go for the boldest and most daring look. Don’t be scared to make a splash. Casablanca makes it super easy to express yourself in a sophisticated way. Go for it!
Casablanca rivage printed shirt
Igee Okafor (@Igeeokafor)
Based in New York
What do you love about Casablanca?
From a consumer and creative perspective, it's very refreshing to see a brand embrace and contribute to what we are redefining as inclusivity in fashion. From casting to styling — we see various cultures and groups represented. Fashion-wise, the brand possesses a carefree and colourful attitude that I really gravitate towards. The style is intelligent and individual and I'm really looking forward to shopping more.
Tell us about why you chose this shirt?
Originally, when I chose the graphic silk long sleeve, I was shopping for my summer wardrobe and I wanted to focus on silky clothing. I looked on Farfetch and saw lots of options by Casablanca. I also checked the Casablanca clothing Instagram and watched a short documentary by Loïc Prigent about one of the fashion shows. Upon further research, it turned out that I had screenshotted a look and put it on my summer mood board a couple of months prior. That sealed the deal.
I love the graphic on the shirt, it's dominated by my favourite colour blue and it really felt like I was looking at art.
Styling:
I wanted a semi-casual look that’s comfortable enough to wear at home. I know whatever I do, I want the look to be minimal enough to highlight the shirt and I’ll do this by co-ordinating with the colours already featured on it. I felt white chinos would be a great foundation and all the accessories would give it the look I’m going for.
Size & Fit:
(Height 5ft 11.5, Size S)
It's so comfortable, and the shirt feels soft and breathable against the skin. It definitely runs true to size, especially on the sleeves which I get nervous about with some brands because I have pretty long arms — but this was perfect.
Any style & fit advice?
Styling Casablanca fashion feels more instinctive and situational than pre-planned. The clothes have so much personality, so you should feel free to style accordingly. When it comes to fit, you're assured perfection.
Casablanca Souvenir De L'Archipel linen shirt
Alex Acero (@AlexAcerov)
Based in Mexico
What do you love about Casablanca?
Its unique style. Casablanca has a DNA that you can identify at first glance. The way it combines sporty style, mainly tennis, with the elegance of tailoring and such original prints, results in a refreshing aesthetic. Casablanca is a positive brand, that no matter how or when you wear it, it helps you transmit a style that is not only unique, but cheerful — thanks to its wide variety of colours. Dressing in Casablanca is like always dressing for holidays, but with style.
Tell us about why you chose the shirt?
Because it helps you stand out and to express who you really are. The mix of pastel colours with the greens of the Foo lions and the light touches of yellow and gold create a spectacular and harmonious combination which (although it catches the eye) is not extravagant. Wearing this shirt is dressing for both a wild and controlled personality. The touches of the Oriental combined with Western elements are captivating. I couldn't not have it in my closet.
Styling:
I love combining it with clothes such as tailored trousers and jackets, whether light or dark, for the day or for the night. Of course, wearing my favourite trainers, depending on the occasion, I vary the colour to complement the pink, green or blue. For me, this shirt is ideal for every occasion — from a party in the afternoon with my friends, because it has a casual air, to an evening event, where it can help me stand out. And, of course, in the morning, strolling through the streets of the city, this garment is the ideal one.
Size & Fit:
(Height: 5ft 8, size M)
Being linen, the texture is incredible and allows the skin to breathe, making it suitable for evenings with a fresh breeze by the sea. I love the size; it fits me perfectly. Being slightly baggy, it can fit any body type. Although I usually wear much tighter T-shirts and shirts, I don't hesitate for a second when it's time to wear this Casablanca shirt. It helps me feel a little freer.
Any style & fit advice?
I think anyone who likes fashion should have this or at least a similar Casablanca shirt. One of the keys to fashion is experimenting and having a shirt like this in your wardrobe will always help. If I can give any advice, it would be — take the opportunity and dress outside your comfort zone. And if this is already your style, why hesitate?
Leo Chan (@levitatestyle)
Based in New York
What do you love about Casablanca?
My personal everyday style reflects my love for mixing classic menswear with casual style. I always strive for my looks to be versatile, whether I’m travelling or heading to happy hour. My love for style mixing is why I really love and appreciate Casablanca’s unique mix of leisurewear and sportswear meets modern sophistication. The brand really fits my on-the-go attitude to be ready and eager for all occasions in life. I love that Casablanca’s pieces are refined and luxurious, but also comfortable and relaxing. Casablanca pieces feel like wearable art, making them the perfect statement piece for any look.
Tell us about why you chose this Casablanca shirt?
I genuinely believe that traveling is one of the most valuable experiences you can have in life. There’s nothing quite like exploring something new, being out of your element, feeling adventurous, and anticipating all you’re going to experience. I chose this Casablanca shirt because I instantly felt like it captured that feeling of wonder and my love of travel. I’m lucky to have been able to see over 50 countries, and this piece makes me happy to think back on all the great memories. I also love the bold pastel colours that make it the perfect summer shirt.
Styling:
My Casablanca shirt is a vibrant statement piece with pops of blue, yellow, and pink, so I want to keep the rest of my look minimal and clean. Since it’s summer, I pair my Island Print shirt with plain white jeans. To keep the outfit casual and fun, I’m choosing to style it with my favourite pair of trainers at the moment. I will definitely be wearing this piece for casual occasions such as chilling poolside or dress it up for events like outdoor cocktails or boating with friends.
Size & Fit:
(Height: 5ft 11, Size L)
Casablanca shirts are incredibly light, breathable, and comfortable. In terms of fit, Casablanca is a mix of tailored meets vintage sportswear, so even though the shirt may fit slightly oversized and slightly boxy, you will still be left with a tailored look. I typically wear a size large in all my shirts, and the large on this sleeve is just slightly bigger than usual. However, I would not choose to size down from my typical large because I want the shirt to be breathable. Depending on your body type and style preference, you may want to size down.
Any style & fit advice?
Casablanca offers so many unique print designs, you’re sure to find one that really speaks to you. The brand makes bold statement pieces, so I recommend styling the look to let your Casablanca item stand out. You can’t go wrong in the summer months by styling your Casablanca shirt with plain white jeans as I did. Polish off the look with a pair of slip-on loafers for a sophisticated look or a sleek pair of all-white trainers for a more casual, clean poolside vibe. I like to leave the top two buttons of my Casablanca shirt unbuttoned to add to the relaxed look.
Casablanca Souvenir De L'Archipel linen shirt
Anthony Urbano (@oh_anthonio)
Based in New York
What do you love about Casablanca?
When I first discovered Casablanca, I fell in love with the brand’s unique perspective on menswear. Their clothes look elegant and decadent but still very comfortable and not too pretentious. With so much emphasis on streetwear and logos lately, it’s refreshing to see a brand that brings back some refinement. Casablanca’s aesthetic very much reminds me of the perfect vacation. The clothes transport you to somewhere bright and luxurious, but it’s still playful and relaxed. I’ve never been to Casablanca but wearing their clothes makes me feel like I’m on that dream vacation.
Tell us about why you chose the Casablanca Printed Bowling Shirt?
For today’s outfit I chose the Souvenir De L'Archipel Linen Shirt. What first caught my attention was the colour. The soft pink with touches of blue and green in the details have a very summery feel to them. I was looking to make a statement in this shirt, so the large Chinese Foo dogs printed on the front and back with smaller illustrations of surfers and clouds have that bold effect while also being whimsical. The back of the shirt is just as good as the front so it makes an impact whether you’re coming or going and for me that makes it the perfect statement piece to add to my wardrobe.
Styling:
When I was styling this shirt, I thought of so many ways I’d want to showcase it. The colours are bright and the graphics are playful so I really wanted to have fun with that while still making the shirt the centre of attention. I paired it with seafoam green trousers to really lean into that summer vacation vibe.
I’d just as easily throw this on over a bathing suit for lunch at the beach, or pair with denim for a casual rooftop cocktail or backyard barbecue. It really is a great summer shirt so I’d make it work for any occasion just so I’d get to wear it more.
Size & Fit:
(Height: 5ft 7, Size S)
When it comes to comfort, you can’t go wrong with linen, especially in the warmer months. It’s airy and breathable so I could wear it on even the hottest summer days. As for sizing, I’m a true size US 36 (small) but I prefer a more relaxed fit with my clothing, so I usually buy a US 38 (medium). I chose to go with my true size, a small, for this shirt which worked out well since it’s already designed for a slightly oversized, boxier fit.
Any style & fit advice?
For anyone looking to make their first Casablanca purchase, I’d say just go for what you gravitate towards first. Casablanca has so much personality, so I think if you follow your initial instincts, you’ll find the piece that suits you perfectly. Don’t choose based on practicality. Their clothing is so much fun, just give into the decadence and buy the piece that makes the biggest style statement.
Casablanca striped trim shirt
Juan Pablo Jim (@jimness)
Based in Mexico
What do you love about Casablanca?
I really like its summery spirit and the use of distinctive prints. I understand that each shirt needs to be cut out of one piece of fabric because of its design, and I think that makes it very special. Also, the fact that it has a Moroccan founder, and mixes both French and Moroccan heritage, makes the origin of the garments interesting.
Tell us about why you chose the shirt?
I love colours and prints, but I do not own a lot of pink clothes. The colour caught my eye. I also love perfumes, and I own a lot of them, and I mix them to create my own scent — the fact that the shirt has perfume bottles on it feels like it tells a personal story.
Styling:
Right now, after months being home, I will be at the beach any opportunity I get. I think this shirt works amazingly with swim shorts for a day look, and then tailored trousers for a casual night.
Size & Fit:
(Height: 5ft 6, size M)
With all shirts, I prefer a looser fit. I love that Casablanca is a little bit oversized, which makes the silk drape better on the body.
Any style & fit advice?
I would say buy your first piece — they are all so special and different — and you'll most probably go back for more. With their unique designs, they feel like collectibles.
Shop The Edit