Sarongs are essential beach wear. They’re perfect for stepping out and soaking up the sun in style, while also providing protection from dangerous UV rays. But sarongs are branching out from the beach. Women are wearing them more frequently in the workplace, where they make a professional yet individual statement, compared with traditional office clothing. They’re also increasingly popular for formal occasions, where wrapping on a sarong makes a stunning contrast to cocktail dresses and gowns.
If you’re wondering how to pull off wearing yours in a setting that lacks sand, read on!
Professional Patterns and Colors
Depending on the dress protocol at your office, there are many different colors and patterns to choose from. You’d be safest starting out with a simple, solid color. Black is always flattering and enhances the natural slimming effect of a sarong. Softer, prettier colors can also be professional, just as you see women in dress suits that are pink. The general rule of thumb for sarongs in the workplace is not to choose something too busy or vibrant. No big tropical flower patterns or beach scenes. Save those for the sand!
Workplace Wraps
For a sophisticated look, wrap your
sarong on as a long, slimming skirt, tied in the back or with a bit of fringe hanging down your hip. You can also tie it on as a dress, with the skirt hanging to your knees. This is a comfortable and flattering look. A little practice will help you learn to tie it off without bulkiness. If you have trouble making a satisfying tie, a simple tying device may help until you get the hang of it.
Pair your long skirt wrap with a tailored, oxford shirt, or a soft blouse in a shimmery fabric. Look for something with a flattering neckline, but don’t over-do the detailing. Keep it understated and professional. Simple heels can add even more height and slimness. A tailored blazer that accentuates your waist can top off your skirt, and cover your shoulders if you’ve wrapped as a dress. The blazer pulls your whole look together, and you can accessorize at will!
Now you’ve got a unique, feminine style that will make an impression on professional associates and clients alike. Standing out in a good way means people will remember your words with even more clarity.
Formal Dinners, Parties and Events
Sarongs work just as well for events at which most women would usually wear a cocktail dress or something more formal. They are sleek, feminine and unique. Wearing a sarong to a formal occasion works because of the smooth clean lines you can achieve with the wrap, because of the timelessness of the traditional style, and because, despite its timelessness, it makes a very modern fashion statement. Such a choice stands out as natural, yet upscale.
Solid colors are always a safe choice, but feel free to experiment with beautiful patterns and colors here. A lovely, hand-painted piece is so elegant in and of itself that it makes your outfit a work of art. There are also more dazzling pieces, hand-sewn with sequins or pearl detailing. Complete your look with some dazzling jewelry, and feel free to be as splendid as you like!
Formal Wraps
Here, as in the office, a long slender skirt is a good wrap choice, but you have more freedom to play here than in a professional setting. A dress is an elegant choice, tied up behind your neck. A sweeping, flowing toga tie is at once classy and comfortable, and can lay on your body with very few folds, showing off the pretty pattern and detailing of your fabric. Tying it up in one of these ways can also show off your legs, which can be a stunning effect even without the addition of stylish heels or sandals.
The versatility, comfort and class of
sarongs makes them ideal for so many situations, the possibilities are endless. All it takes is a little fashion sense and creativity, and you can make a statement that others will remember for a long time to come. At FairWindsSarongs.com, you will find ample choices to add to your wardrobe.
*****