A Sarong is a long strip of cloth worn around the body especially in Southeast Asia, some African nations and the pacific islands. This attire is usually made of brightly colored fabrics, 4 to 5 yards in length and is wrapped around the lower part of the body. They can be worn either by tucking or tying around the waist.

Traditionally, the sarongs are made in such a way that in the center of the long strip of cloth a layer of contrasting colors or patterns are woven or dyed into the fabric known as the kepala (head) of the sarong. This sheet is stitched in such a way that it takes the shape of a tube.

History:
Sarongs have a long history and it is not exactly clear where this dress form was invented. The ancient Romans and Greeks called it tonga. Even today it is known by different names in different countries, in the islands of Tahiti and Hawaii it is known as pareos, in India it is called sri, in Africa it is called kanga while people in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia call it sarong.

Indonesia is the largest manufacturer and exporter of Sarongs that is why this garment is popularly known by this name. In olden days, on the island of Java, sarongs of certain designs and patterns were reserved for royalty and were the property of Kings, Queens, Nobles and Aristocrats. Any body imitating those designs was liable to capital punishment.

Patterns:
Sarongs are available in many patterns like floral, striped, crocheted and animal patterns but the most popular is the batik pattern. Batik is a technique of dyeing and it is associated with sarongs. This is an Indonesian artwork and is done by hands, thus each sarong takes lot of time and hard work to get its finish and design.

Usage:
Sarongs are used in many ways, some of them are listed below:-

• Skirt
• After bath as a cover up
• Dress Toga
• Curtains
• Shawl
• Scarf
• Wall Hanging
• Table cover
• Beachwear
• Turban

Fabrics:
A variety of fabrics are used to make beautiful and stylish sarongs. Among the natural fabrics Silk and Cotton are used widely.
Silk: This fabric is used because it is fine textured, lightweight, and gives an elegant look.

Cotton: It is a very good absorbent and is light weight and comfortable, thus it is widely used making beach wear sarongs.

Synthetic fabrics like georgette, nylon, rayon and polyester are also used. These fabrics come in affordable prices and also look trendy.