Salamalikoum peeps! I have only just about recovered from my trip to Marrakech last month. To sum up the weekend: Total. Interiors. Porn. Period. Shopping in the souks is an assault on the senses and the most intense yet exhilarating shopping experience I have had in a while. Berber rugs a go-go, beautifully crafted brass lanterns everywhere, golden leather poufs at every corner, and don't get me started on the patterns, the colours, the textures... I wish I had gone a bit more prepared with a pot of cash, two empty suitcases and a pre-planned and fully rehearsed haggling technique. Unfortunately I was there for a hen do with limited funds and a full-on schedule of fun activities so had to keep the shopping madness to a reasonable level. I am obviously already planning my next trip there and will probably end up opening a Moroccan pop-up shop in East London if I buy everything I spotted on my last trip...

Moroccan design has been influencing our interiors for years, and it's a style than can be recreated easily at home either by going full ball on colours and accessories or by just adding a few key pieces mixed up with your existing decor. That's what I have done at home anyways... I came back elated and full of inspiration and here are some simple tips on how to add a little Moroccan touch to your home decor without breaking the bank.

1. Rug it out

This is probably the best way to add a bit of Moroccan vibe to your pad without having to rethink the rest of the scheme. Beni Ourain and Boucherouite rugs are my favourite rugs in the UNIVERSE and they just add luxurious texture and fabulousness into any home decor. If you can get yourself to a souk and show some serious negotiating skils, you could bag yourself beautiful hand-made extra-large Berber rug for under £200. Yes, that's about 5 times less than a vintage version from a UK supplier. And they have the most amazing technique to pack them all up in tiny parcels so you can take one back easily on the plane back. I regret not getting one every single day since I got back... If you can't make the trip to Marrakech and can't afford to buy one here, then check out my recent post on affordable Beni Ourain-style rugs available from the high street.

2. Embroidered leather pouffes

These are so eye-catching and practical if you haven't got the space to add a set of armchairs to your living room but still need extra sitting. Try and find hand-stitched ones made in Marrakech for full authenticity, they're usually exquisitely made using hand-dyed leather and decorated with gorgeous embroidery, and often come in a range of vibrant colours as well as silver and gold tones. Bohemia in the UK have a fabulous range of Moroccan pouffes, all hand-made in the Medina and shipped over here. Check out their collection here.

3. Customised storage baskets

I use storage baskets everywhere in the house and this customised beaut (which I used as a beach bag there and as stylish storage here because, well there is no beach at home, is there?!) is the latest addition to my growing collection... I had it made by the clever French peeps behind Original Marrakech in the Medina (near the Terrasse des Epices if you're interested) and it meant I was on brand at ALL TIMES while in Morocco... You can see their collection and customisable options here.

4. Lighten up

Another classic I wish I had brought back with me (but that comes with an entire different challenge transport wise) is the Moroccan lantern. The ones made of brass are just so chic and can fit in any decor. The detailed pattern creates beautiful light display on the walls as the candle light shines through at night. Either brass or multicoloured ones you can't go wrong. Notonthehighstreet.com have a good range and it never hurts to have a good browse on Etsy...

5. Pom Pom blankets

Some of the girls I travelled with went absolutely berserk for these and rightly so. Available in a ridiculously cool range of neon colours, these throws add a touch a fabulousness to any bland bedroom. You can find pretty much any style (striped, plain) and colours you like from local suppliers on Etsy.

Obviously there are SO MANY more beautiful items that I spotted in Marrakech that would look gorgeous in any scheme including tiles, handiras, side tables, stools, the list goes on but this is a good start if you're on a budget... Who knows, there might even be a second post dedicated to Moroccan decor soon.

In the meantime, happy decorating!

[Star Tips] 5 easy ways to add a touch of Morocco to your home decor