Papeete Market Pareo Blue and Purple Reef Wonders

Inspired by the coral reefs of Polynesia, this pareo from the Papeete Market combines stunning shades of blue and purple with a marine motif featuring tropical fish, a turtle, and coral. Made entirely by hand in Tahiti from cotton voile, each pareo is a one-of-a-kind piece, similar to those found at the famous Papeete Market.

With its magnificent shades of ocean blue and lagoon purple, this "Merveilles du Récif" sarong pays tribute to the richness of Polynesian underwater landscapes. Its design features an elegant sea turtle surrounded by tropical fish, coral, and aquatic vegetation, evoking the beauty of Tahiti’s reefs. Made of cotton voile, it measures approximately 110 x 175 cm—a generous size that allows it to be worn as a traditional sarong, a beach dress, a stole, or a shawl.

SOLD WITH A TOTE BAG MADE IN TAHITI

Important information: Thephotos are for illustrative purposes only. Each sarong is entirely handmade in Tahiti using traditional artisanal methods. The piece you receive will feature the same dominant colors, the same style, and the same patterns as the one shown in the photo, but their arrangement, intensity, or certain details may vary slightly. These variations are part of the charm of a handcrafted creation and ensure that each sarong is a one-of-a-kind piece.

HANDCRAFTED

Each pareo from the Papeete Market is crafted in Tahiti using the traditional tie-dye technique, known in French as “teinture par nouage.” The fabric is first hand-dyed to create its magnificent color gradients. Stencils are then placed on the fabric before it is exposed to the sun. The areas covered by the stencils gradually lighten, while the areas exposed to the sun retain their color, revealing the patterns that give each creation its unique character.

This method is still widely practiced by Polynesian families who craft their pareos by hand. They also use fern leaves, coconut palm fronds, foliage from their gardens, and even fishing nets to create original, natural designs.

The dye used is made in Moorea. Solvent-free, it produces vibrant, luminous colors that are also highly lightfast. Your pareo will retain the full intensity of its colors for a long time.

Since each pareo is handmade, you may notice slight irregularities, minor variations in shade, or a few residual plant fibers or threads that can be removed. These details are a testament to genuine artisanal craftsmanship, created by a Polynesian family in Tahiti, and set this pareo apart from mass-produced, industrially manufactured items. 

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

The cotton fabric may feel slightly stiffer upon receipt due to the artisanal dyeing process. After the first cold wash, the fabric regains its full suppleness and becomes exceptionally soft.

For the first wash, we recommend washing the pareo separately to prevent color transfer onto other garments. Subsequent washes can be done in cold water to preserve the vibrancy and brightness of the colors over time.

TIPS FOR WEARING IT

Measuring approximately 110 x 175 cm, this pareo offers many styling options. Tied around the waist, worn as a beach dress, draped over the shoulders as a shawl, or used as a lightweight wrap, it adds a touch of escapism and elegance to all your summer outfits. Lightweight and breathable, it’s perfect for the lagoon, the beach, the pool, or your sunny getaways.