At DeGreyes, we produce handcrafted toquilla straw hats, known worldwide as Panama hats, but with a deep-rooted Ecuadorian origin. Working closely with artisan communities, we honor their centuries-old hat-making traditions, ensuring these skills are passed down through generations while embracing modern design trends. We are committed to quality, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability, making hats that are not just accessories but symbols of culture, heritage, and craftsmanship.
Our diverse clientele spans wholesalers, retailers, hatmakers, designers, luxury fashion brands, and individuals across the globe. We believe in working with companies of all sizes to bring the beauty and tradition of Ecuadorian craftsmanship to the world.
The story of the toquilla straw hat, often misnamed the Panama hat, is one of tradition, resilience, and artistry passed down through generations in Ecuador. While these hats have gained international recognition for their elegance and style, their true origin lies far from the bustling cities — in the quiet villages of the Ecuadorian coast and highlands, particularly in Cuenca and Montecristi.
Although globally known as Panama hats, this term is a historical misnomer. The hats gained popularity during the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century when thousands of workers wore them to protect themselves from the tropical sun. However, each hat was handcrafted in Ecuador and then shipped to Panama for export, hence the name. Despite this, the hat’s true identity remains deeply tied to Ecuadorian culture and history.
Weaving toquilla hats is more than just a craft; it’s a spiritual tradition for Ecuadorian communities. Passed down from mother to daughter, father to son, the intricate weaving process reflects a profound connection to nature. Weavers often speak of the straw as a living entity—one that requires respect and care. The rhythmic process of weaving is akin to meditation, symbolizing the harmony between humanity and the earth.
What many don’t know is that the finest toquilla straw hats are woven in the early morning or late at night when the air is most humid. The moisture makes the straw pliable, ensuring a tight, durable weave. This secret, passed down through generations, is just one of the many elements that make each hat a work of art.
During times of political and economic hardship, the toquilla straw hat became a symbol of resilience for Ecuadorians. Weaving these hats provided income for many rural families, allowing them to preserve their traditions and support their communities. Today, the craft continues to empower local communities, particularly women artisans who blend ancient techniques with modern designs, keeping the tradition alive.
In 2012, UNESCO recognized the traditional weaving of toquilla straw hats as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, a prestigious acknowledgment of the cultural importance and craftsmanship involved in creating these hats. This recognition has helped shine a spotlight on the artisans, ensuring their skills and stories are not lost to time.
Yet beyond international acclaim, the toquilla straw hat remains a symbol of Ecuadorian pride. Each hat tells the story of the weaver, their community, and the land from which it came — a true embodiment of Ecuador’s rich heritage.
Creating a toquilla straw hat is a meticulous process that honors centuries-old traditions while incorporating modern innovation. The production process involves several steps, each performed with skill and care:
1. Harvesting the toquilla straw : Farmers carefully cultivate and harvest the Carludovica Palmata plant. The fibers are extracted from the palm’s inner stalk, boiled, and then sun-dried.
2. Weaving the hat : The weaving process requires exceptional skill, with the finest hats taking from several days to months to complete. The finest quality hats, known as Montecristi hats, are true works of art.
3. Shaping and finishing : Once woven, the hats are washed, molded, and ironed to achieve their final shape. The brim is carefully trimmed, and any additional details, such as ribbons or bands, are added.
4. Quality control : Every hat undergoes strict quality checks to ensure it meets our high standards before leaving the workshop. We take pride in every piece, knowing it represents not just our brand but the legacy of Ecuadorian craftsmanship. We know how you will treasure your hat, as you would a piece of jewelry.
At DeGreyes, we are deeply committed to supporting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By choosing our products, you are making a conscious decision to contribute to a better world.
• SDG 5 - Gender Equality : Many of our artisans are women who rely on their weaving skills to support their families. We empower female artisans by providing fair wages and opportunities for economic independence.
• SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth : We ensure that our artisans work in safe conditions and are fairly compensated for their exceptional craftsmanship. This helps foster economic growth in their communities.
• SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production : Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From the sustainable harvesting of raw materials to eco-friendly production methods, we ensure that our practices respect both the land and the people involved.
• Preservation of Heritage : Every purchase supports the preservation of an ancient Ecuadorian craft, ensuring that these traditions continue for generations to come.
• Exceptional Quality : Our hats are made with the finest Toquilla straw and woven by the most skilled artisans, ensuring unmatched quality and durability.
• Ethical Production : We prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally sustainable practices throughout our entire production process.
Our artisans are the heart of DeGreyes. Many come from rural communities where weaving is more than just a skill, it’s a way of life. We believe in showcasing the people behind the hats, sharing their stories, and highlighting the profound impact their craftsmanship has on their communities. Explore the stories of our artisans, learn about their lives, and see how your support makes a difference.
Looking for something unique? At DeGreyes, we offer custom orders for designers, retailers, and other businesses. Whether you need a special design or a large order, we are happy to collaborate and bring your vision to life.
At DeGreyes, we are passionate about the future of Ecuadorian craftsmanship. By blending traditional techniques with modern designs, we ensure that this beautiful art form remains relevant in today’s world. We believe that true luxury lies in sustainability, ethics, and the preservation of culture.
Join us in celebrating the spirit of Ecuador and the timeless beauty of handcrafted toquilla straw hats.
+593 (0)999 750 485
+31 (0)6 356 109 38
