In the untouched landscape of the Moroccan Atlas Mountains lies the exceptional Ourika Gardens where YSL Beauty have supported the creation of an inclusive women’s cooperative. This cooperative relies on the expertise of local women to care for the gardens and harvest botanical ingredients to better understand them and use them in selected YSL signature products. Through the Ourika Gardens, YSL Beauty proudly promotes the unique skills of these local communities and has helped support their financial independence since 2012.
HOW IT ALL STARTED
For the landscape designers Eric Ossart and Arnaud Maurières: “it is a resolutely contemporary interpretation of the ancient Garden of Eden, which seeks to portray Yves Saint Laurent’s affection for the Mediterranean culture.”
The gardens are divided into three distinct areas. The first is composed of 64 square plots for growing plants where botanical ingredients are harvested to be incorporated in selected YSL signature products. In addition to the saffron pistils extract used in the Or Rouge skincare range, you can find walnut leaf extract (used in our Top Secrets setting spray), marigold extract (used in our signature product Touche Éclat), and many more. A second space called the “botanical area” is an experimental area for exploring and understanding new ingredients. Finally, a “legacy” space pays tribute to Yves Saint Laurent and his passion for flowers, with clusters of hibiscus, wheat, and lilies.
Morocco:
a vibrant heritage
In Morocco, the country where Mr Saint Laurent explored his creativity, YSL Beauté invites you to discover the Ourika Gardens
Explore our social impact toward women's autonomy, as we promote their unique skills and financial independence through their local ancestral know-how.