Ecuador: Home to the Toquilla straw hat

Ecuador is a beautiful and vibrant country situated right on the equator. West of the Galapagos, this diverse country borders Colombia and Peru as well as the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest. From Ecuador’s humid climate emerged one of the most iconic type of summer headwear. The wildly popular misnomer: Panama hat.  

Straw hats were a staple in Ecuadorian wardrobe well before Teddy Roosevelt made them popular during his visit of the construction of the Panama Canal. Roosevelt who first noticed the hats being worn by Panamanian construction workers was eventually photographed wearing a toquilla Optimo hat, incorrectly identified by newspapers as Panamanian.   

Since then, the demand for toquilla hats has supported artisanal and indigenous weavers. Straw weavers are often women and use regional weaving techniques taught to them by the older generation. These family businesses have maintained the old world traditions of high quality, hand woven hats that require an immense amount of skill and patience. The subtle elegance of these hats is seen in its tight weave and smooth finish.  To own a genuine toquilla hat is to witness a living piece of art and history.  

Over the years, Mark has travelled to Ecuador to visit the weavers and hand select the best toquilla hats he could find. Last year Mark was grateful for an invitation by the Ecuadorian government to visit the country and meet with local vendors.  

Photos and blog by: Sonia Mejia