The Ultimate Sarong Guide: Styles, Uses & How to Wear Them

A sarong is one of those pieces that slips into your day without much thought, bringing a sense of relaxation and escape with it. Light, versatile and endlessly wearable, it’s become a favourite for anyone who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle, whether that’s by the water, on holiday or at home.

In this sarong guide, we’re taking a closer look at what makes this piece of fabric so chic and useful. Discover how to wear a sarong and the many ways it can add colour to your day.

What is a sarong?

A sarong is a long, lightweight piece of fabric that wraps around the body, creating one of the simplest and oldest garment styles still worn today. The name comes from the Malay and Indonesian word “sarung”, which means “to cover” or “to sheath”. This meaning of sarong reflects its original purpose as an everyday wrap tied around the waist. For generations across the Nusantara and wider Asian region, the sarong was one of the first forms of woven fabric worn by both men and women, valued for its practicality and ease of movement.

Traditionally, the fabric was tied like a tube around the hips, but over time, people have found even more ways to wear it. Modern sarongs can come in different colours, prints and lengths, giving you plenty of room to choose something that suits your plans and personal style.

What are the types and styles of sarongs?

Sarongs come in a range of lengths and designs, each offering its own look and feel.

Full-length sarongs

These offer generous coverage and can be worn as dresses, skirts or wraps. They’re great when you want something flowing and versatile.

Half sarongs

Shorter in length, these are easy to tie at the waist and perfect for quick cover-ups or a lighter layer.

Printed sarongs

From bold patterns to soft, earthy designs, printed sarongs bring personality and colour into any look. Tie-dyed and batik-inspired sarongs are popular choices, offering those beautiful artisanal details and subtle variations that make each piece feel unique and full of character.

Solid-colour sarongs

Loved for their simplicity, these sarongs create a clean look and pair easily with whatever you’re wearing.

What are the common fabrics used for sarongs?

Sarongs are made in a wide range of fabrics, and each one affects how the sarong drapes, feels and performs in different conditions. Here are the most common fabrics used:

Rayon

Rayon is known for its silky drape and comfortable feel. Rayon fibres absorb dyes exceptionally well, resulting in rich and vibrant colours and patterns.

Cotton

Cotton is breathable and easy to care for, which makes it a favourite for daily use. It has a natural feel on the skin and suits anyone who prefers a casual fabric with a timeless look.

Silk

Silk sarongs have a luxurious flow that feels beautiful to wear. They offer a smooth texture and gentle sheen, making them perfect for those who enjoy a more refined or elegant look in their wardrobe staples.

Linen

Linen sarongs have a crisp, airy quality that suits hot days and coastal living. Although slightly more textured, linen softens over time and offers that naturally effortless look many people love.

Polyester and synthetic blends

Synthetic materials like polyester can be durable, quick-drying and resistant to wrinkles. These blends are practical for travel, regular use and those who want a fabric that holds its shape well.

Each fabric brings its own charm, so choosing the right one often comes down to how you want your sarong to feel and how you plan to use it. Whether you prefer the softness of rayon or the breezy crispness of linen, there’s a fabric to match every mood and moment.

How do you wear a sarong?

One of the reasons sarongs have stayed popular for so long is the sheer ease of wearing them. There is no strict method to follow and no right or wrong approach.

As a classic waist wrap

Fold the fabric lengthwise if you prefer a shorter look, then wrap it around your hips and tie the ends together at the side or in front.

As a chic dress

Hold the sarong behind you, bring the top corners forward, cross them over your chest and tie them behind your neck. This creates a relaxed halter dress that is ideal for beach walks or slow mornings at home.

As a shoulder wrap

Drape it around your shoulders like a shawl when the breeze picks up or when you want a little extra coverage. This is especially handy when travelling or spending the day outdoors.

As a scarf or throw

Roll or fold the sarong and wear it as a lightweight scarf, or spread it out as a picnic throw or sun cover. Its generous size makes it easy to repurpose depending on what you need at the moment.

The best part is that wearing a sarong never has to feel complicated. Once you have tried a few simple ties, you will find your own favourite ways to style it and let it become part of your everyday rhythm.

When to use a sarong

A sarong is one of the most versatile garments you can own. It works in everyday life, travel, beach settings, special occasions and even as part of your wardrobe at home. Here’s a clear breakdown of when to use a sarong and why it’s so useful. 

For beach and pool days

Sarongs can serve as a cover-up, something soft to sit on or a simple way to move between the water and the rest of your day without needing to change outfits completely.

For travel plans

Wear it while wandering through markets, wrap it around your shoulders when you need a little extra coverage or use it as a light layer during flights and long drives. 

For outdoor adventures

Spread a sarong out for a picnic, fold it into a simple seat cover or drape it over yourself as a light barrier from the sun. Its generous size and soft texture make it an ideal companion for moments spent outside.

For days that need a little colour

On days that feel a little flat, knowing how to wear a sarong can brighten things right away. The prints, textures and colours you choose can shift your mood and outfit in small but meaningful ways.

Shop the best sarong styles in Sarong Hut

With so many ways to wear and enjoy a sarong, it’s easy to see why they’ve earned a place in every wardrobe. At Sarong Hut, we bring you premium sarongs for men and women. Each piece is crafted from cotton or rayon and comes in a stunning mix of colours, prints and textures. Shop now and enjoy free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $75. 

FAQs

Why are sarongs popular in Australia?

Sarongs are popular in Australia because they suit the way many of us like to live: relaxed, outdoors and never too far from the water. They’re light to wear, easy to pack and simple to slip on when you want a bit of coverage without any fuss. 

What is the best material for a sarong?

The best material depends on the feel you prefer. Rayon has a smooth, elegant fall, while cotton gives you a more grounded, familiar touch. Linen brings an airy structure, whereas silk offers a refined finish.

Are sarongs good for summer and travel?

Absolutely. Sarongs are multi-purpose and can be worn, wrapped or used in a variety of ways. They're especially practical when you want to pack light.

Can you wear a sarong as a dress or skirt?

Of course! Sarongs can be tied at the waist as a skirt or styled as a dress with a few quick knots. Their generous size makes it easy to adjust the look to suit whatever you’re doing.