The sarong, a rectangular piece of fabric wrapped around the waist, is a staple in many cultures across Southeast Asia. In Bali, both men and women wear sarongs, but with a key difference: the wrapping direction. Here’s a quick guide to rocking a sarong like a Balinese man:
The Wrap:
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Left Over Right: Unlike women’s sarongs, which wrap right over left, the men’s sarong goes left over right. Imagine yourself holding the sarong horizontally behind you, with more fabric on the right side.
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Center It Up: Stand with the sarong spread out. Bring the left side over your body to meet the center of your stomach.
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Right Around: Take the remaining fabric (the longer side) and wrap it comfortably around your back to the front again.
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Pleat and Secure: With the extra fabric in front, create pleats by folding it back on itself a few times. This will form a panel that drapes down the center.
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Tie Time: Secure the pleats by rolling the top of the sarong down over itself 3-6 times to create a comfortable waistband. Tuck the end of the roll under for a clean finish.
Pro Tip: Balinese men often wear a shorter piece of fabric called a saput over the sarong for added security and a touch of style.
Finding Your Style:
The beauty of the sarong is its versatility. You can adjust the tightness of the wrap and the height of the waist depending on your preference.
- Beach Ready: For a breezy beach look, keep the sarong on the shorter side.
- Temple Appropriate: For a more formal setting like a temple visit, opt for a longer wrap that reaches your mid-calf.
Embrace the Culture:
Wearing a sarong is a great way to immerse yourself in Balinese culture. It’s practical, comfortable, and allows you to experience the local way of dressing. Plus, you’ll look effortlessly stylish!
Learning More:
There are many resources online to help you visually understand the wrapping process. Check out [YouTube] videos for a step-by-step guide.
So, ditch the shorts and embrace the sarong on your next Balinese adventure!
