Sarongs are far more versatile than we tend to give them credit for. This nifty stretch of fabric boasts a practical purpose, sure; it's a quick way of covering up post-sea swim. But it can also be the basis of many a holiday look, on and off the beach.
Any sarong you pack will be taking up precious suitcase space (though admittedly not much), so it's worth maximising the outfits you get out of it. You can wrap it into a strapless dress shape or tie it around your hair, but there's one use we think trumps all the others: Treat your beach wrap as a skirt, knotted at the waist, and we promise you the results will be effortlessly stylish. We're talking about the kind of breezy, "just threw it on" aesthetic that travel influencers radiate.
Speaking of influencers, we knew they'd be best placed to offer up some inspiration on how to wear a sarong this summer. Check out five laid-back outfits below, from simple swimwear looks to evening-friendly ensembles.
1. Coordinate Your Bikini + Throw On a Resort Shirt
Style Notes: Resort shirts work in tandem with sarongs to create an easy-going beach look. A matching bikini will make the finished outfit feel cohesive.
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Choose from five wearable colours.
This shade of blue always makes me think of holidays.
A week in Greece, anyone?
2. Wear it With a Cardigan After-Dark
Style Notes: A cardigan might seem counterintuitive in this context, but the reality is it gets chilly after five or six pm—even in the Mediterranean—and this combo is a chic solution.
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The key is to stick to a thin knit.
This pattern is so unique, and I think it looks really expensive.
Sleek and comfortable.
3. Try a Matching Set
Style Notes: Many brands make coordinating tops to wear with your sarong, and as crochet sets are so on-trend right now, we think this is a winning option.
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This is Marina's exact set—I'm obsessed with everything Monday Swimwear has to offer.
Show off your tan with this shorter sarong.
Statement sunnies.
4. Wrap it Around a One-Piece
Style Notes: I love the juxtaposition between the high-neck swimsuit and the sheer sarong, especially in this monochrome palette. It shows how easy it is to retain a classic, minimalist style even in the Tropics.
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When you're not in the mood to wear a bikini, opt for this elegant one-piece.
This will work over all your swimwear.
Trust COS to make flip-flops look this chic.
5. Swap Your Swimsuit for a Regular Tank Top
Style Notes: For this tank top look, you'll need a slightly thicker sarong to avoid your underwear showing through. Charlotte's outfit is an enviable example of how you can sport your sarong just like a regular skirt.
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This buttery yellow basic is destined for sandy shores.
I'm calling it—this is one of the best sarongs on the high street.
Trust me, you'll be glad you packed these.
Next Up, 8 Trends That You'll See in All the Coolest Holiday Destinations This Year