Couture
Panama hats and weaving qualities
Learn the secret of the quality grades of panamas
The Panama Hat: It’s Not from Panama!
Panama Hat
Fun Fact: Despite its name, the original Panama hat actually comes from Ecuador! Crafted from the fibers of the Carludovica Palmata palm, this unique straw was first woven by indigenous communities in the south of the country. Naturally white or cream, the hat’s wide brim was designed for one main purpose: protecting against the sun.
Read more ...The Genuine Panama Hat Comes from Ecuador
Thanks to its worldwide popularity, the Panama hat now comes in a variety of colors, shapes, and straw types. Prices can range from affordable to high-end, depending on the quality of the straw and the craftsmanship involved in the weaving process. The choice is yours—just take your time to find the perfect one!
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Buying my authentic Panama
Despite its name, the panama hat is from Ecuador. The panama is not a shape, but a way of making: it designates all the hand-woven hats made from palm tree straw. Therefore, it exists under the versions of fedora, floppy, bowler, trilby (it is then called Cuban panama)... It is a reference for all headgear lovers.
Known to be assimilated to male hats, it can be worn by men and by women as well. The panama got famous thanks to the quality of its straw and to its lightness. If white panamas are more classical, it is today possible to dye the straw with any shades.
Meticulously hand-woven from toquilla straw, it is a national symbol in Ecuador. The thinner the straw, the better the quality. It's worth noting that there is no limit: the making of certain exceptional models can lasts one year and be sold several thousands of dollars! The most renown being the Montecristi panamas: hats with a so fine and tight weaving that they result waterproof.
To recognize a real Panama from a fake one, just look at the top of the hat. If you see a rose on the top, then it is genuine as that is the beginning of the hand-weaving. Copies don't have that rose! Then, with your Panama, you will be ready for the summer and the beach while being chic!
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