How to Style a Sarong: Five Ways to Wear One

A sarong is the most flexible thing in a beach bag. Tie it at the hip for a skirt, behind the neck for a dress, over the shoulders for a wrap or around your hair for sun cover. Start with the hip skirt below, then try the others.

By the AOBA team. Updated 6 October 2026. 3 minute read.

What you need

A sarong is a rectangle of light fabric, usually wide enough to wrap around the hips with room to tie. Most AOBA sarongs are one size, and the product page lists the dimensions.

Pick a sarong with some drape. Stiff fabric slips out of knots, and very thin fabric can slide. If you are not sure, a mid-weight sarong is the easiest to learn on.

Tie a hip skirt in four steps

The basic wrap. Every other style builds on it.

  1. Hold it behind you

    Hold the sarong flat behind your waist with a long edge at the top and the ends in your hands.

  2. Wrap it round

    Bring both ends to the front, pulling the fabric snug against your hips.

  3. Cross and knot

    Cross the ends at your hip and tie a double knot, so it holds while you walk.

  4. Adjust the drop

    Slide the knot to the side you like and let the long end fall, or tuck it in.

Four more ways to wear it

As a halter dress

Wrap the sarong across your chest, bring two corners behind your neck and tie them. Let the rest fall as a skirt.

As a shoulder wrap

Drape it over your shoulders like a shawl and knot the ends at the front. Good for cool breezes and temples.

As a bandeau cover

Wrap it across your chest, tuck the end in at the side and knot it for a quick change after swimming.

As a hair wrap

Fold it into a long strip and tie it around your head to keep the sun off, or use a small sarong as a scarf.

Styling tips that make a difference

  • Match or contrast. A sarong in the same colour as your swimsuit looks like a dress. A different print looks planned if one of them is a solid.
  • Tie it tight at the hip. A loose knot slides down when you walk on sand.
  • Keep one in your bag. It doubles as a towel, a seat on hot sand and a layer on a boat.
  • Wash it gently. Follow the care label and dry it in the shade.

Common questions

How do you tie a sarong so it stays on?

Wrap it snug against the hips, cross the ends and tie a double knot. Choose a fabric with some drape.

How many ways can you wear a sarong?

At least five: hip skirt, halter dress, shoulder wrap, bandeau cover and hair wrap.

Can I wear a sarong as a dress?

Yes. Wrap it across your chest, tie two corners behind your neck and let the rest fall as a skirt.

What do I wear with a sarong?

A bikini or monokini underneath, flat sandals and a bag. See beach outfit ideas.

What is the return policy?

AOBA offers easy 7-day returns. Read the full conditions on the refund policy page before you order.

Written by the AOBA team. Last updated 6 October 2026.

Stock, prices and sizes change daily. This page reflects what was available on the date above, and each product page shows live details.

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