Ways to Wear a Sarong

A sarong worn as a long skirt

Sarongs and pareos are not just comfortable, they're convertible. Made from just one piece of rectangular fabric, sarongs and pareos can be wrapped, folded and knotted to make dresses and skirts. You're most likely to see them on the beach but sarongs and pareos can be quite elegant when cut from fine fabric.

Instructions

1. Hold a corner of the sarong in one hand, wrap it around your back and hold the other corner with the other hand, as if you're drying your back with a towel. Twist the two top ends around each other twice at chest level. Tie the ends behind your neck. Tuck one side under the other for an airy dress.

2. Wrap the sarong the same way as in the last step, but don't twist the ends. Simply wrap them one over the other and tie the ends behind your neck. Adjust the fabric over the chest to your desired amount of coverage.

3. Start the same way you did with the first wrap. Holding the sarong lengthwise, bring the top corners around to the front and twist them one over the other one time. Loosen the end of the fabric and lay it smoothly over one breast and tuck it in in back. Do the same for the other corner. This strapless wrap is reminiscent of a Grecian goddess.

4. Make a skirt by wrapping the sarong around the waist and tying it on one hip. Roll the waist down until the hemline is right above the knee.

5. Create a sexy backless dress by tying the ends behind the neck first letting the sarong fall in front of you. Gather two pieces of fabric at either hip and tie them together.

Tips & Warnings

• Sarongs and pareos were traditionally worn by residents of the Pacific islands. The fabrics often pictured large hibiscus flowers or other foliage as adornment.