Unlock Sarong Style: 10+ Ways to Tie a Sarong for Every Occasion

The sarong, also known as a pareo, is a versatile piece of fabric that can be transformed into a variety of stylish outfits. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring a tropical paradise, or simply want a lightweight and comfortable garment, mastering the art of tying a sarong opens up a world of possibilities. This guide will walk you through numerous tying techniques, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to elevate your sarong game.

What You’ll Need

• A sarong (rectangular piece of fabric, typically lightweight cotton, silk, or rayon)
• (Optional) Sarong clips or rings for added security and embellishment

Basic Sarong Tying Techniques

1. The Classic Halter Dress

This is perhaps the most popular and straightforward way to tie a sarong. It’s perfect for a beach cover-up or a casual summer dress.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, with the top edge just under your arms. Make sure the fabric is evenly distributed on both sides.
2. Bring the Ends Forward: Bring the two top corners of the sarong forward to the front of your chest.
3. Tie the Ends: Tie the two corners together securely. You can use a simple knot or a double knot for extra security. Adjust the knot to your preferred neckline height.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric around your body for a comfortable fit. You can pull the fabric tighter for a more fitted look or leave it looser for a more relaxed style.

2. The Strapless Dress

A simple and elegant way to wear a sarong, the strapless dress is ideal for showing off your shoulders and décolletage.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Similar to the halter dress, hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, just under your arms.
2. Overlap the Ends: Bring the two top corners forward and overlap them slightly in the center of your chest.
3. Twist the Ends: Twist the overlapping ends together tightly.
4. Tie Behind Your Neck: Bring the twisted ends up and tie them securely behind your neck.
5. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric for a snug and secure fit. Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure the sarong is evenly distributed around your body.

3. The One-Shoulder Dress

This asymmetrical style is chic and flattering. It’s a great option for a more sophisticated look.

1. Hold the Sarong Diagonally: Hold the sarong diagonally across your body, with one corner near your underarm on one side and the opposite corner near your hip on the other side.
2. Bring the Top Corner Over Your Shoulder: Take the corner near your underarm and bring it up and over your shoulder, draping it down your back.
3. Tie the Corners Together: Gather the corner from your back and the corner near your hip at your side. Tie them together securely at your waist or hip.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric to create a flattering drape. You can pull the fabric tighter for a more defined waist or leave it looser for a more relaxed fit.

4. The Skirt Wrap

The skirt wrap is a simple and versatile option for a beach cover-up or a casual skirt. It can be tied at the waist or the hips, depending on your preference.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind you, at the desired height for your skirt (waist or hips).
2. Wrap the Sarong Around Your Body: Bring the two ends of the sarong around to the front of your body, overlapping them slightly.
3. Tie the Ends: Tie the two ends together securely at your waist or hip. You can tie them in the front, to the side, or even in the back for a different look.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric for a comfortable and flattering fit. You can create a slit by adjusting the overlap of the fabric.

5. The Trousers

Transform your sarong into a pair of comfortable and stylish trousers.

1. Hold the Sarong in Front: Hold the sarong horizontally in front of you.
2. Tie the Top Corners Around Your Waist: Tie the two top corners around your waist in a secure knot.
3. Separate the Hanging Fabric: Separate the remaining fabric into two sections, creating two ‘legs’.
4. Tie Each Section Around Your Legs: Take one section of fabric and bring it between your legs. Tie it to the corresponding corner on your back. Repeat with the other section.
5. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric for comfort and style. You can adjust the length and width of the legs to your liking.

Advanced Sarong Tying Techniques

6. The Grecian Goddess Dress

This elegant style evokes the flowing robes of ancient Greece. It’s perfect for a more formal occasion.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, with the top edge just under your arms.
2. Cross the Ends in Front: Bring the two top corners forward and cross them over each other in the center of your chest.
3. Bring the Ends Around Your Neck: Bring the crossed ends up and around your neck, tying them together securely behind your neck.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric to create a flowing, draped effect. You can use a belt to cinch in your waist for a more defined silhouette.

7. The Kimono Wrap

This stylish and comfortable wrap is perfect for layering over a swimsuit or a casual outfit.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, with the top edge just under your arms.
2. Bring the Ends Forward: Bring the two top corners forward, leaving them loose in front of your body.
3. Tie at the Waist (Optional): You can tie the ends together loosely at your waist for a more secure wrap, or leave them open for a more relaxed look.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric for a comfortable and flattering fit. You can roll up the sleeves for a more casual look.

8. The Braided Halter

Add a touch of detail to your halter dress with a braided neckline.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, with the top edge just under your arms.
2. Divide and Braid: Divide each of the top corners into three strands. Braid each set of strands separately.
3. Tie Behind the Neck: Bring the braided ends up and tie them securely behind your neck.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric around your body for a comfortable fit. You can pull the fabric tighter for a more fitted look or leave it looser for a more relaxed style.

9. The Twisted Front Dress

This style creates a visually interesting twist at the front of the dress.

1. Hold the Sarong Behind You: Hold the sarong horizontally behind your back, with the top edge just under your arms.
2. Bring the Ends Forward and Twist: Bring the two top corners forward and twist them together tightly in the center of your chest.
3. Tie Behind the Neck or Back: Depending on the length, tie the twisted ends behind your neck for a halter style, or bring them around and tie them in the back for a strapless look.
4. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric for a snug and secure fit. Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure the sarong is evenly distributed around your body.

10. The Sarong Top

Transform your sarong into a stylish top to pair with shorts, jeans, or a skirt.

1. Fold the Sarong: Fold the sarong in half lengthwise.
2. Hold Behind Your Back: Hold the folded sarong behind your back, with the folded edge at the top.
3. Bring the Ends Forward: Bring the two top corners forward to the front of your chest.
4. Tie the Ends: Tie the two corners together securely, adjusting the knot to your preferred neckline height.
5. Adjust and Style: Adjust the fabric around your body for a comfortable fit. You can create a more cropped look by tying the knot higher.

Tips for Tying a Sarong

• Choose the Right Fabric: Lightweight fabrics like cotton, rayon, and silk are ideal for sarongs. They are breathable and drape well.
• Consider the Size: Sarongs come in various sizes. A larger sarong offers more versatility in tying options.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right on the first try. Practice each technique until you feel comfortable.
• Use Sarong Clips: Sarong clips can add extra security and prevent the sarong from slipping. They can also add a decorative touch.
• Experiment with Different Knots: Try different knotting techniques to find what works best for you. A square knot is generally more secure than a simple overhand knot.
• Accessorize: Add a belt, jewelry, or a hat to complete your sarong look.
• Consider the Occasion: Choose a tying style that is appropriate for the occasion. A simple skirt wrap is perfect for the beach, while a Grecian goddess dress is more suitable for a formal event.
• Adjust for Your Body Type: Experiment with different tying styles to find what flatters your body type the most.
• Secure the Sarong: Make sure the sarong is tied securely to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions. Double-knotting and using sarong clips can help.
• Be Creative: Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own unique sarong styles!

Styling Your Sarong

Once you’ve mastered the art of tying a sarong, it’s time to start styling it! Here are some tips to elevate your sarong look:

• Pair with Swimwear: A sarong is the perfect cover-up for your swimsuit. Choose a color or pattern that complements your swimwear.
• Add a Belt: A belt can cinch in your waist and create a more defined silhouette.
• Accessorize with Jewelry: Add a necklace, earrings, or bracelets to add a touch of glamour to your sarong look.
• Wear with Sandals or Heels: Depending on the occasion, you can wear your sarong with sandals for a casual look or heels for a more dressy look.
• Layer with Other Garments: You can layer your sarong with a tank top, t-shirt, or cardigan for added warmth and style.

Caring for Your Sarong

To keep your sarong looking its best, follow these care tips:

• Hand Wash or Machine Wash on Delicate: Wash your sarong in cold water using a mild detergent.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric.
• Hang to Dry: Hang your sarong to dry in a shady area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colors.
• Iron on Low Heat: If necessary, iron your sarong on low heat.
• Store Properly: Store your sarong in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

The sarong is a versatile and stylish garment that can be transformed into a variety of outfits. With a little practice and creativity, you can master the art of tying a sarong and create your own unique looks. So, grab your sarong and start experimenting! Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring a tropical paradise, or simply want a lightweight and comfortable garment, the sarong is the perfect choice.