Story
We believe in pieces that carry meaning: objects made with intention, designed to last. All my products are handmade by local artisans of natural and local materials, so each product is truly unique. I love our collection and hope that you will too.
Wendy Rodriguez
, Ecuadorian Panama Hats & More
Founde of Ecuadorian Panama Hats & More
I am Wendy Rodriguez
Originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, I found in the Panama hat a way to bring the essence and lifestyle of my homeland to Switzerland over 10 years ago. This product blends my passion for design, fashion, and social and environmental commitment.
Our collections combine classic tradition with the forefront of global fashion. I design each piece and collaborate directly with the artisans, which allows us to bring our clients’ ideas to life and offer them unique, tailor-made hats and bags.
Authentic Origin
Woven in Ecuador, where tradition lives.
Crafted by Hand
Each piece shaped slowly, by skilled hands.
Timeless Design
Created to outlast seasons and trends.
The Story of the Panama Hat
The Legacy and Perfection in the Art of the Panama Hat
For decades, the world has known it as the Panama Hat.
Yet this iconic woven hat has always been handcrafted in Ecuador.
Its name became popular during the construction of the Panama Canal, where thousands of Ecuadorian hats were shipped through Panama before reaching the world.
But the true value of a Panama Hat lies beyond the fiber itself.
It is defined by the artistry of its weave, the mastery of its technique, and generations of Ecuadorian craftsmanship passed down through artisan hands.
At Ecuadorian, we honor the true origin of this timeless tradition.
Elegance with a name of its own
Ecuadorian was born from a deep respect for craftsmanship and heritage.
Each hat is woven in Ecuador using traditional techniques, then carefully refined to meet a modern, timeless aesthetic.
«From the purity of toquilla straw to the final finish, every hat is shaped by time, technique, and generations of artisan craftsmanship.»
1
Toquilla Fibre
2
Hand Weaving
3
Refinement
4
Shaping
5
Final Details
6
The Finished Piece
1
Toquilla Fibre
Every piece begins with carefully selected toquilla fibres harvested in Ecuador. Chosen for their softness and flexibility, the fibres are prepared slowly by hand before the weaving begins.
2
Hand Weaving
Using traditional techniques, artisans weave each hat entirely by hand with extraordinary patience and precision. For the finest pieces, the process can require months of craftsmanship.
3
Refinement
To achieve exceptional fineness, artisans delicately moisten each strand while carefully tightening the weaves by hand. This meticulous process creates an extraordinarily refined texture — soft and almost silk-like
to the touch.
4
Shaping
Once woven, each piece is carefully shaped and refined entirely by hand to achieve its final silhouette
5
Final Details
From the finishing touches to the stitching of the Ecuadorian label, every detail is completed slowly and with careto the touch.
6
The Finished Piece
Once woven, each piece is carefully shaped and refined entirely by hand to achieve its final silhouette