WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SARONG AND A PAREO?

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SARONG AND A PAREO?

Summer is winding down but the warm weather is still here and there is no better time than now to enjoy the beautiful beach weather. A sarong or pareo is the essence of casual summer wear and perfect for the warm tropical weather. What is the difference between a sarong and pareo?

A sarong is a piece of fabric usually between 4-5 foot in length that is worn as a loose fitting skirt or dress. The name sarong comes from the Malay word “sarung” meaning sheath or covering. These fabrics are often dyed in rich colors and were traditionally made with batik fabric.

The Pareo on the other hand was developed in Tahiti and adapted to Western fabric when it was introduced by European explorers in the 1700. In Hawaii, the names are often interchangeable. The modern day fabrics are often colorful vibrant and detailed with floral or some other type of tropical print representing the island lifestyle. Fabrics can be sheer or heavier depending on style.

Today women often wear their sarongs as a short or long skirt with a bikini or as a complete dress cover up. Whatever style you are looking for check out SHAKATIME for their large selection of Sarongs/Pareos.