Everything you ever want to know about the Sarong!

Throughout history, the sarong has been known by many different names to different countries, in different parts of the world. In Hawaii and Tahiti it’s known as the “pareo.” In Africa there are seven different names for this wrap or “kanga,”. It’s known as the "lava-lava" in Samoa and in India it is known as the “sri” or dhoti. Even in the ancient days of Rome and Greece, people would gracefully don the “toga”.

The western world has adopted the Indonesian name "sarong" due to its popularity and where the majority of "sri" are made today. Although the "lavalava" is mainly manufactured in Indonesia many countries make them, including the United States.

The "kanga" usually has large printed designs depicting animals, plants, the sea, landscapes or designs resembling batik or ikat. However the best thing about a sarong is that it’s easy to tie, takes up very little room in a suitcase, can be worn in a variety of different ways and is comfortable to wear for both men and women.

Return to hula-with-me "Home Page"