Hats

The fine toquilla straw hats are made by hand in Ecuador. This accessory is gaining strength in the fashion world every day, but it is necessary to take certain care to keep your hat looking new.

So Theodore Roosevelt meets for first time the toquilla straw hats. On that occasion he was photographed wearing one and this image appeared in the New York Times, which gave these accessories international fame, but their origin was initially confused and recived the popular name “Panama Hat“, after the place in which they were sold, although its origin was actually Ecuadorian.

The Panama Hat weaving is an ancient knowledge passed from generation to generation. It’s a tradition that continues today bringing entire families. Moreover, it represents a lifestyle that creates a sense of identity and social cohesion reference for both the craftsmen who manufacture the hats and the people of Manabi.

Panama hats have several models, each with its name and its main characteristics that distinguish each other. These fashion hats can be for all tastes: youthful, formal, sports and classic.

Toquilla straw hat, also known as Panama Hat, have become very popular among young people and adults.  If you have a Panama hat and you do not know how to combine it or you want to buy one, but you do not know which one is the right one, you have arrived at the right place. 

Since the first of October the straw hat has been exhibited in the MoMa (Museum of Modern Art in New York) museum. This is erroneously known as Panama Hat. Its true origin is from Ecuador. 

The Montecristi hat mistakenly known as the Panama Hat is woven by Ecuadorian hands. Montecristi is the center where these handmade hats are found. Weavers take between 1 to 6 months to weave a fine hat.

The program of workshop schools, and offices homes have their appearance in Spain.  It is created under the command of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. This school does not depend on the education sector, but it is an alternative training for the people; it is a way to learn to weave Toquilla straw hats.

For more than a century, Toquilla Straw Hats or Panama Hats have captivated important personalities and tourists around the world for their style and elegance.

"The Traditional weaving of the Ecuadorian toquilla straw hat" Declared "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity" by UNESCO since 2012