History of Sarongs
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The word sarong comes from the Malay word for “covering.” The sarong originated in Java and the Malay Archipelago and consists of fabric wrapped and tied around the body at the waist or arms. Dutch traders introduced the sarong to Europe in the sixteenth century, where sarongs are still very popular today. Sarongs are worn by both men and women, can be worn in many different ways, and are most often used as a wrap over a swimsuit. A sarong is also known as a pareo.
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The history of the sarong:
The word sarong is from the Malay word for "covering". The sarong originated in Java and the Malay Archipelago and consists of fabric wrapped and tied around the body at the waist or arms. Dutch traders brought introduced the sarong to Europe in the sixteen century where they are still very popular today. Sarongs are worn by both men and women. A sarong, also known as a pareo, can be worn many different ways but is most often used as a wrap over a swimsuit.
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You can learn more about Lisa Zajdel the owner of Sassy Sarongs at her profile on the Fashion Industry Network. You can check out Lisa's Sassy Sarongs profile.
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A Wrap With No Sewing
The sarong’s long history rests on a simple construction: a length of fabric, wrapped and tied, with no cutting to a pattern and no sewing required to make it a garment. That simplicity is what makes the same cloth adaptable — tied at the waist as a skirt-like wrap, tied at the arms, or worn as a light cover over swimwear as a pareo. Because fit comes from the wrapping and tying rather than from sized construction, one sarong serves many wearers and many uses.
From the Malay Archipelago to the Beach
From its origin in Java and the Malay Archipelago, the sarong traveled with trade: Dutch traders carried it to Europe in the sixteenth century, and its popularity there has endured. In modern fashion its strongest association is with the beach and resort wear — a colorful wrap over a swimsuit — but the garment itself remains what it has always been, a covering cloth worn by both men and women in warm climates around the world.
Common Questions
Where does the word sarong come from?
From the Malay word for “covering.” The garment originated in Java and the Malay Archipelago.
How is a sarong worn?
As fabric wrapped and tied around the body at the waist or arms. A sarong can be worn many different ways, and its most common modern use is as a wrap over a swimsuit.
How did the sarong reach Europe?
Dutch traders brought the sarong to Europe in the sixteenth century, and it has remained popular there since. Sarongs are worn by both men and women.