When it comes to beachwear, nothing is as versatile, stylish, and functional as a beach cover-up. The most popular options are the pareo and the sarong which are made of two lightweight fabrics that are perfect for covering up after a swim or lounging by the sea or poolside. These pieces come in a huge array of colours, patterns, and fabrics, making them a must-have for any holiday wardrobe.

Here’s an overview of all you need to know about how to tie, style, and care for these essential pieces of beach fashion.

What is a Pareo?

A pareo is a large, rectangular piece of fabric that is traditionally worn around the waist or tied across the body, making it the perfect option for a simple beach cover-up. It originated in Polynesia and is typically made from light, breathable fabric such as cotton, linen, or rayon. Pareos can be worn in a multitude of ways depending on the occasion and are known for their vibrant prints and versatility.  They fold up easily without creasing and are perfect for popping into your beach bag.

What is the Difference Between a Pareo and a Sarong?

Although pareos and sarongs are often used interchangeably, there are slight differences between these two.

• Pareo: A pareo is more commonly associated with Polynesian and Tahitian cultures. It is often smaller and can be made from lighter fabrics, perfect for the tropical climates it originated from.
• Sarong: A sarong is typically longer and wider and has roots in Southeast Asia. It tends to be slightly more formal or traditional and can be worn in many different ways, from casual beach cover-ups to evening wear.

Despite their origins, both pareos and sarongs can be worn the same way, and both offer similar stylish coverage by the beach or the pool. The choice often comes down to personal preference, fabric, and size.

Inspiration for How to Tie and Style a Pareo & Sarong

One of the best things about pareos and sarongs is the number of ways these can be styled. Here are some inspiring ways to tie and style your beach cover-up:

• Basic Wrap Around the Waist
  The simplest way to wear a pareo or sarong is to wrap it around your waist like a skirt. To do this, fold the fabric in half and wrap it around your hips. Secure it in place with a knot or a twist. This works perfectly as a beach skirt or in combination with a one-piece swimsuit.
• Halter Dress
  For a chic and casual dress, place the centre of the sarong on your back and pull both ends forward under your armpits. Pull the two corners of the fabric back and tie behind your neck or across your back for a simple halter-style dress.
• One-Shoulder Dress
  For a more elegant look, drape the sarong over one shoulder, bringing the ends to your opposite side, and tie a knot just above your hip. This creates a sophisticated asymmetrical look that’s perfect for sunset cocktails.
• Beachside Poncho
  If you want something more relaxed, simply drape the pareo over your shoulders and let the ends hang loose. You can tie the fabric loosely at the waist or let it flow freely for an effortless beachside cover-up.
• Bikini Cover-Up
  For a simple cover-up over your swimsuit, fold the sarong into a triangle and tie it behind your neck for a cute, boho-inspired beach look. This works particularly well with a two-peice swimsuit and is perfect for poolside lounging.
• Gathered Skirt
  To wear your sarong as a fitted skirt, tie it at the waist and twist the fabric several times to create a ruched or shirred effect. This gives the piece a bit more shape and structure.

Key Styles & Trends

Fashion trends in beachwear come and go, but certain styles remain timeless. Here are some of the key trends for pareos and sarongs in recent seasons:

• Tropical  Prints
  Bold tropical patterns and colours such as palm leaves and hibiscus flowers have perennial appeal.  These bright, vibrant prints are perfect for making a statement on the beach.
• Bohemian Vibes
  Boho styles featuring earthy tones and detailing like fringes and trims are incredibly popular for both pareos and sarongs. These pieces add a relaxed, effortless feel to any beach look.
• Monochrome & Minimalism
  If you prefer a more understated look, you can’t go wrong with classic neutral tones like white, beige, or black. Simple and elegant, these solid colours work well for pairing with various swimsuits.
• Abstract Ikats
  Playful and bold patterns are perfect for adding a fun, colourful touch to your beachwear. From soft pastels to bold hues, abstract prints give a playful look to sarongs and pareos.

Care & Packing Tips

To ensure your sarong or pareo stays looking fresh season after season, follow these care and packing tips:

Care:

• Wash Gently: Always check the care instructions on your pareo or sarong. In general, hand wash or use the delicate cycle on your machine to preserve more delicate fabric.
• Dry Properly: Avoid using a dryer to dry your cover-up. Instead, lay it flat to air dry to prevent shrinkage or damage.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: While it’s meant for the beach, try to avoid leaving your cover-up in direct sunlight for long periods, as it can cause fading, especially with vibrant prints.
• Iron or Steam: If your cover-up gets wrinkled, use a steam iron or a steamer on a low heat setting to smooth out any creases.

Packing:

• Roll Instead of Folding: To minimize wrinkles, roll your pareos and sarongs instead of folding them. This also saves space in your suitcase.
• Use a Garment Bag: For more delicate fabrics, pack them in a garment bag to prevent snags and damage during travel.
• Keep Away from Heavy Items: Avoid packing heavy items that could crush your light cover-up. Use soft pouches or compartments for extra protection.

Pareos and sarongs are essential, versatile pieces for any beach or holiday wardrobe. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, taking a stroll on the beach and heading to a tropical destination, these simple pieces offer an array of styling possibilities. With so many ways to tie, style, and accessorize, you’ll always be prepared to look fabulous and mix things up while staying comfortable.  With the right care, your beach cover-up will stand the test of time for many summers and holidays to come!