Pareo Skirts at Fairwindssarongs.com

Images of the lei always bring to mind the floral garlands that the people of Hawaii string about their own necks and the necks of visitors. The pareo skirts at fairwindssarongs.com have found a way to preserve this tradition in fabric. "Pareo" is the Hawaiian word for sarong, and the designers of this versatile wrap skirt have not failed to bring the lei to life in the Fair Winds pareo. Along two parallel edges, the fabric pattern stretches from end to end in two colorful and detailed leis, with petals floating between the leis. 

Although the sarong can be a casual garment worn as a beach cover up or shopping gear, it can also be accessorized for parties and other events that are slightly more formal. It is important to understand that a lei is not a casual, decorative symbol. Each strung arrangement carries meaning in Hawaiian culture. 

Purple, green or white orchids are a common symbol of gratitude. They make up the flowers for many of the leis that are hung around the necks of visitors to Hawaii. Native Hawaiians frequently give orchid leis to one another to say thank you.

To make personal statements about love with leis, many people choose the pua ilima flower. It is the official flower of the island of O'ahu and sometimes called the royal lei, since at one time, it was only worn by Hawaiian chiefs. Often these flowers are a golden orange color and it takes hundreds of ilima flowers to make a single lei. People often wear two ilima flower leis because the petals are relatively small. Carnation leis also symbolize love and are frequently exchanged by guests at wedding celebrations.

The green maile ti leaf lei is often seen in formal celebrations like memorials, graduations or other commemorative events. The giver of this flower is telling the recipient that he is deeply appreciated, admired and respected. These leis appear more like greenery than flower petals, and the leaves come from the maile vine, which smells like licorice. 

Because each type of lei carries a different meaning, it is a good idea to know the cultural significance of a lei pattern that might appear on a sarong wrap. Many people will not know the meaning of the pattern on clothing unless the wearer reveals its meaning. However, in the event that there is one envying onlooker who knows something about leis, it is a good idea for the sarong wearer to brush up on Hawaiian culture.