How to Wear a Sarong in the Northeast
The dress of men in the Isaan region is unique and interesting, different from other regions, especially the wearing of a "sarong," which has specific cultural characteristics. Wearing this sarong was influenced by the Indian lungi cloth, which is made of cotton with a similar checkered pattern. However, in Isaan culture, these sarongs are woven with silk fibers, giving them a distinctive material quality compared to the Indian lungi cloth.
Identity and Uses of Silk Sarongs
In Isan culture, silk sarongs are often worn during merit-making ceremonies and other important occasions. The sarongs are used by people of all social statuses, and wearing sarongs has played an important role in transmitting culture to different ethnic groups. Each ethnic group in the northeastern region has its own unique colors and designs, which have become distinct local identifiers. For example, the Phu Thai people in Ban Phon, Kham Muang District, Kalasin Province, prefer dark-colored sarongs, while the Kui (Suai) group in Sisaket and Surin provinces prefers brightly colored sarongs, such as reddish-orange mixed with green, called the betel color. These unique colors and patterns showcase diversity and create a distinct identity for the region.
How to Wear a Sarong in Daily Life
Wearing a sarong can be categorized into two main styles: formal wear and everyday wear. For formal occasions, Isaan people often wear the sarong by "pleating it in the front" and securing it with a silver or metal belt at the waist for a polished look. For daily wear, it is more common to "tie it at both sides and knot in the middle," making it more practical for activities like using the restroom or doing general work. This method also makes daily life more comfortable, without the discomfort of a tight belt around the waist.
Sarong vs. Sarong: How Are They Different?
In Isan culture, there is a distinction between sarongs for men and sarongs for women. Men commonly wear sarongs, while women wear sarongs (often referred to as "sin"). In some areas of Ubon Ratchathani Province, there is even a tradition where men and women swap their respective sarong or sin attire to astonish the heavenly angels and bring rain. This tradition gives a special significance to the sarong in Isan society.
Summary
The culture of wearing sarongs in the Isan region is rich, unique, and beautifully diverse. Silk sarongs with different patterns and colors from each ethnic group symbolize the cultural richness of Isan. Wearing sarongs in everyday life is a reflection of modernity and convenience for the Isan people, while some traditions even attribute good fortune and prosperity to changing gender roles in clothing. Preserving these cultures and traditions gives deeper meaning to sarongs and sarongs for the wider Isan community.
If you are interested in exploring more about the culture and traditions of the Isan people, visit our shop to choose from our wide selection of silk fabrics for luxury dresses. Visit us at: www.silkket.com. Our shop offers a variety of silk fabrics, including plain colored silk, Mudmee pattern silk, native silk, and national silk—all meticulously crafted with high quality by expert technicians.
Thank You to the Source
Intellectual Heritage Book: Isaan Textiles
Thank you for photo credit: Isaan Arts and Culture Conservation Group, Ajahn Adisak Sasiri
```