What Is a Sarong? Your Guide to the Ultimate Beach Cover-Up
Share
What is a sarong?
A sarong is a lightweight wrap traditionally worn throughout Southeast Asia and tropical regions — but today it’s become one of the most easiest and most versatile beach cover-ups in the world. Sarongs are popular with both women and men.
You can wear a sarong as a surf wrap, dress, halter, shawl, scarf, travel wrap or beach blanket, making it a favorite for holidays, cruises and summer travel.
Why Are Sarongs So Popular?
Sarongs have become popular around the world because they’re lightweight, flattering, easy to pack and incredibly versatile.
Many people now use sarongs as an alternative to bulky beach cover-ups because they take up almost no space in luggage and can be styled in multiple ways.
A single sarong can work as:
• A beach wrap
• A skirt
• A halter dress
• A shoulder shawl
• A lightweight travel scarf
• A beach blanket or towel layer
Sarongs are especially popular for tropical holidays, cruises, beach vacations and resort wear because they dry quickly and feel comfortable in warm weather.
They’ve also become popular with minimalist travellers who prefer packing fewer items that can be worn multiple ways.
Different Ways to Wear a Sarong
One of the best things about a sarong is how many ways it can be styled.
At Sarong Hut, we regularly share easy styling ideas including:
• Classic wrap skirts
• Beach cover-ups
• Halter dresses
• Reverse halter dresses
• Shoulder wraps
• Resort-style layering looks
Many people are surprised that one lightweight fabric wrap can completely change look and function depending on how it’s tied.
Explore more sarong styling ideas and beach outfit inspiration throughout our blog and social channels.
What Fabric Are Sarongs Made From?
Sarongs are traditionally made from lightweight fabrics designed for warm weather and tropical climates.
Some of the most popular sarong fabrics include:
• Rayon – soft, natural, lightweight and flowy
• Cotton – breathable and natural-feeling
• Gauze cotton – airy and textured for relaxed resort wear
• Lightweight beach fabrics – designed for quick drying and easy packing
Different fabrics create different looks and styling options. See our size guide for help with measurements.
Lightweight rayon sarongs are probably the most popular choice for beach vacations and resort styling due to quick dry and wrinkle-resistant qualities. Plain black and white cotton sarongs are often preferred for softness and everyday comfort.
Sarong vs Beach Cover-Up
Many women now use sarongs as lightweight swimsuit cover-ups because they’re easier to pack, more versatile and more breathable than heavier resort wear. The terms sarong, beach wrap, pareo and beach cover-up are often used interchangeably.
In many countries, a sarong refers to a lightweight wrap worn around the waist or body, while in the USA people often search for terms like beach cover-up or swimsuit cover-up. The word “pareo” is commonly used in Hawaii and parts of the USA to describe a lightweight wrap worn at the beach. In many countries, the terms pareo, sarong, beach wrap and beach cover-up are used interchangeably.
Today, sarongs are worn globally as fashionable and versatile resort wear that can be styled in so many different ways. They’re especially popular for beach vacations, pool-side lounging cruises and tropical travel.
Shop Sarongs Online
At Sarong Hut, we offer lightweight beach sarongs for women and men in a range of colours, prints and fabrics including rayon and cotton.
Explore our collections
Looking for lightweight beach sarongs, wraps and cover-ups? Explore the latest styles online at Sarong Hut with fast shipping to Australia, the USA and the UK.
Feel the freedom ♡