To tie a Tahitian style rolled pareo you will start off with the pareo long lengthwise
and we will fold it in half
and make a large knot in at the middle like so
and then you will wrap it around your hip and tie a knot on the other side
nice and tight from there we will roll the puddle evenly around
continue to roll to your desired length right above the knee preferably
push it down and there you go
The pareo, also known as “pareu” in Tahitian, is a vibrant and versatile garment deeply rooted in the cultural history of Polynesia. Its story is intertwined with the islands’ natural environment, social customs, and evolving interactions with the outside world.
Origins and Early Use
The origins of the pareo trace back to ancient Polynesia, long before European explorers arrived in the region. Polynesian societies, spread across a vast oceanic expanse, developed unique yet related cultural practices, and the pareo was one such tradition. The word “pareo” itself originates from Tahiti, but similar garments were found throughout the Polynesian triangle, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.
Originally, pareos were made from tapa cloth, a fabric created by pounding the inner bark of trees such as mulberry, breadfruit, and fig. This labor-intensive process involved soaking, beating, and drying the bark until it formed a thin, pliable material. The resulting cloth was often decorated with natural dyes made from local plants, producing intricate patterns and motifs that held cultural and symbolic significance.
Social and Cultural Significance
In traditional Polynesian societies, the pareo was more than just clothing; it was a vital part of social identity and status. Men and women wore pareos in various styles, often indicating their age, gender, marital status, and social rank. The way a pareo was tied or wrapped could convey specific messages or adhere to cultural norms. For instance, a woman’s pareo might be tied differently depending on whether she was married or single, while men might wear them as loincloths or shoulder wraps during different activities.
Pareos also played a significant role in ceremonies and rituals. They were worn during important life events such as weddings, funerals, and religious ceremonies, where the colors and patterns could denote the occasion’s nature and the wearer’s role within the event. The exchange of pareos as gifts was a common practice, symbolizing respect, friendship, and alliance between individuals or families.
European Contact and Transformation
The arrival of European explorers and missionaries in the 18th century marked a turning point in the history of the pareo. Captain James Cook and his crew were among the first Europeans to encounter and document Polynesian cultures. The Europeans brought with them new materials, including cotton fabrics, which gradually replaced traditional tapa cloth for making pareos due to their durability and ease of production.
Missionaries, in particular, had a profound impact on Polynesian clothing customs. They often encouraged indigenous people to adopt more “modest” Western styles of dress, leading to a decline in the traditional ways of wearing pareos. Despite this, the pareo remained a resilient symbol of Polynesian identity, adapting to new materials and influences while retaining its cultural significance.
The Modern Pareo
In the 20th century, the pareo experienced a resurgence, both within Polynesia and globally. As Polynesian societies gained greater autonomy and began to assert their cultural heritage, the pareo re-emerged as a proud emblem of identity. It became a key element of the cultural revival movements that swept through the islands, celebrating traditional arts, crafts, and customs.
Today, pareos are commonly made from brightly colored cotton or rayon fabrics, featuring bold floral and geometric designs that reflect Polynesia’s natural beauty. They are worn in a variety of ways, from beachwear to casual clothing, and even as formal attire in certain contexts. The versatility of the pareo makes it a popular choice not only among Polynesians but also among tourists who visit the islands and embrace the local style.
Cultural Impact and Global Spread
The global spread of the pareo can be attributed to several factors, including tourism, media, and fashion. As visitors to Polynesia experienced the relaxed and colorful lifestyle, they brought back pareos as souvenirs, helping to popularize the garment worldwide. Additionally, the pareo has been featured in films, music videos, and fashion shows, further cementing its status as an iconic piece of island culture.
In recent years, the pareo has also been embraced by the fashion industry, with designers incorporating its elements into their collections. This has led to a fusion of traditional Polynesian motifs with contemporary fashion trends, showcasing the pareo’s enduring appeal and adaptability.
Conclusion
The history of the pareo is a testament to the resilience and creativity of Polynesian cultures. From its origins in ancient tapa cloth to its modern incarnation as a symbol of island chic, the pareo has continually evolved while maintaining its cultural roots. It serves as a reminder of Polynesia’s rich heritage and the enduring influence of its traditions on the global stage. Whether worn as a simple beach cover-up or a statement of cultural pride, the pareo remains a vibrant and cherished part of Polynesian life.