How to Dress Respectfully in Bali

How to Dress Respectfully in Bali: A Guide to Island Etiquette & Effortless Style

By Zvjezdan

There’s a certain magic in the Balinese air—a fragrant blend of plumeria, incense smoke, and the distant crash of surf. Perhaps it’s no surprise that travelers, myself included, are drawn to this emerald speck in the Indonesian archipelago with the same longing we feel for the Adriatic coast, where turquoise meets stone and history lingers in every olive tree. But, as I quickly learned on my first visit, Bali’s charms come with their own set of rules—most notably, what (and what not) to wear.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Ubud or watching the sunset over Tanah Lot, dressing respectfully isn’t just about blending in. It’s about honoring an island where tradition is woven into daily life as intricately as the offerings on every doorstep. So, slip off your sandals (you’ll be doing this a lot), and let’s explore the art of Balinese attire—where comfort meets custom, with a dash of island flair.

1. Sarongs, Sashes, and Smiles: Temple Attire 101

Imagine wandering through a sea of emerald rice terraces only to stumble upon a temple, its gates adorned with checkered cloth and guardian statues. Your instinct is to step inside, camera at the ready. But pause! Bali’s temples (pura) are sacred spaces, humming with offerings and the daily dance of the devout.

Proper temple attire is non-negotiable:
– Sarong (kain): This traditional wrap skirt is tied around the waist, covering the legs. Men and women alike don them, and, trust me, nothing says “I respect your culture” like properly sporting a sarong.
– Sash (selendang): Tied just above the hips, the sash is more than a fashion statement—it symbolizes humility and self-control.
– Covered shoulders: Leave the spaghetti straps for the beach. Opt for a T-shirt or blouse that covers the shoulders. (Pro-tip: Carry a lightweight scarf in your daypack. It doubles as shoulder coverage and a makeshift headwrap for particularly sunny days.)

Most temples rent or lend sarongs and sashes at the entrance, but for the truly adventurous, pick one up at a local market in Ubud or Seminyak. The colors and batik patterns make for a delightful souvenir (and, if you’re Croatian like me, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship—think of it as a Balinese paška čipka for your wardrobe).

2. Island Casual: Navigating Day-to-Day Dress Codes

Outside the temples, Bali’s dress code is relaxed but not reckless. The tropical climate begs for linen, cotton, and batik—fabrics that breathe as easily as the ocean breeze. But “island casual” doesn’t mean “beach party 24/7.”

Here’s the unspoken rule:
– Keep it cool, keep it covered (ish): Short shorts and tank tops are fine for Kuta’s surf scene, but in villages, markets, or when visiting a family compound, modesty is appreciated. Aim for clothing that covers your thighs and shoulders. Think breezy culottes, midi skirts, or loose-fit trousers paired with sleeved tops.

Footwear:
– Bali is a slip-on, slip-off world. Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for temple visits and beach strolls, but keep a pair of sturdier shoes for jungle hikes or motorbike adventures. And always, always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred space (a practice that feels oddly familiar if you grew up along the Dalmatian coast, where shoes and stari kamen never mix).

3. Beachwear Boundaries: Where Bikinis Belong

I get it—the temptation to live in your swimsuit is real. But remember: scanty beachwear belongs on the sand (or by the infinity pool), not in town. Wandering through a market in swimwear is a surefire way to earn disapproving glances.

Golden rule: Cover up before leaving the beach. A simple sarong, sundress, or loose T-shirt transforms you from “tourist lost in translation” to “respectful traveler.” Plus, it’s a good way to dodge the mid-afternoon sun—a lesson I learned after one too many sunburns, both in Bali and back home in Split.

4. Ceremony Season: When in Doubt, Go Local

If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Balinese ceremony—a wedding, cremation, or full moon blessing—think of it as your runway moment. Locals dress in their finest: women in kebaya (delicate lace blouses), men in crisp shirts and udeng (traditional headcloths). You don’t have to go full regalia, but err on the side of formality.

Pack or borrow:
– A long skirt or smart trousers
– A bright, clean shirt or blouse
– A fresh sash
– Extra respect (and perhaps a flower behind your ear for good measure)

Be prepared to sit cross-legged, smile often, and accept whatever coconut concoction is offered with both hands. It’s the Balinese way.

5. The Little Things: Tattoos, Hats, and Other Nuances

• Tattoos: Bali is famously tattoo-friendly, but cover them in temples or during ceremonies, especially if your ink features religious motifs.
• Hats and sunglasses: Remove them before entering temples or homes.
• Rain gear: Tropical downpours arrive unannounced. A vibrant poncho is as essential as your sunscreen—and makes for great photos amidst the island’s sudden monsoon moods.

Final Thoughts: Dressing the Part, Living the Spirit

Dressing respectfully in Bali isn’t just about fabric and fit—it’s about stepping lightly on the island’s sacred ground, moving with intention, and embracing the dance of daily life. When you swap your flip-flops for a sarong, you’re saying, “I see you, Bali. I honor your traditions.” And, if you’re lucky, Bali will honor you right back, revealing corners of its soul that most tourists never find.

So go forth, traveler. Wrap yourself in color, walk with humility, and let the island’s spirit dress you from the inside out.

Travel tip from Zvjezdan:
If you’re ever unsure, just smile and ask a local. Their warmth rivals the Balinese sun, and their advice? Always in style.

Ready to discover more offbeat corners of Bali? Follow my island adventures for stories, tips, and the occasional recipe—because, after all, the best journeys begin with curiosity and a well-tied sarong.