Unblocked raw Panama hat body, handwoven from fine toquilla straw. Each piece represents weeks of meticulous work, with a tight, uniform weave and natural ivory tone—lightweight, breathable, and ready for steam and shaping
Panama hats, though famously misnamed, are a proud tradition of Ecuador, particularly crafted in the small Andean towns surrounding Cuenca. Woven from toquilla palm, this craft dates back centuries to Ecuador’s indigenous communities.
Cuenca rose to prominence in the 19th century as a major hub for hat weaving, and when these hats were exported through Panama—worn notably during the construction of the Panama Canal—their global name was sealed.
At Zeil Millinery, we are honored to work alongside a company in Cuenca that holds deep knowledge and respect for this rich weaving heritage. Together, we support the continuation of this remarkable tradition, blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design.
