How to Wear a Tube Sarong (Men)

Reviewed by Kalee Hewlett

Last Updated: October 7, 2024

Sarongs are worn by both men and women in many parts of the world, but especially in south and southeast Asia. This long, brightly colored fabric can be worn on a hot summer day, while lounging around the house, sitting by the pool, and even while entertaining guests for a casual, backyard dinner. Sarongs are extremely comfortable, striking, and versatile, and you don't need to be in an exotic locale to wear one.

Steps

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Turn the sarong until the dark stripe is towards your back side. Hold the top open at waist level.^{[1]
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It helps if you hold the inner fold against your body with one hand as you draw the front to the other side of your body with the other hand.^{[3]
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Do this several times. The tighter the roll, the easier it will be to keep the sarong on. It's best if the final roll ends up above the hips.^{[5]
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Community Q&A

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Question

Can I wear it as a dress?

Community Answer

Yes you can, although it's meant to be more like a skirt.

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If South Asian men can wear it without underwear, can I also do so in the United States?

Community Answer

As long as you aren't (either accidentally or intentionally) exposing yourself, sure.

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When I want to defecate while wearing a tube sarong, what shall I do?

Community Answer

Normally, the Malays pull it up (instead of down) due to wet floors that they normally have in their bathrooms. You can pull it up, and take it off if you need to, or leave it hanging on your neck as a scarf.

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Tips

It is common for the sarong to slip or loosen over time. When this happens, just open it up, refold and re-tighten it again.

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If the sarong you purchase has ties, then lightly pull on the ties until the sarong fits tightly and comfortably around your waist.

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If there are no ties, as an alternative to the rolling method, a solid decorative pin may be used. The fabric can be tightly tucked under itself in layers with the corners of the main sheet going around the body and knotted, or a belt might be used to hold the sarong in place.

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Warnings

The sarong takes the place of trousers, so make sure you wear underwear underneath. However, Indonesian and Malay men in rural Southeast Asia countries normally wear sarongs without underwear, especially at home, due to the tropical heat.

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