Description
Our Portofino is a drop model hat made from Panama Fine. The material from which the famous Panama is made follows several processing steps: it is a weaving of strands of "paja-toquilla," a straw made from the leaves of Carludovica palmata, a plant native to Central and South America. The craftsmanship of these straw strands is done entirely by hand and is an important part of Ecuador's cultural heritage; in fact, these ancient production techniques have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The splendid workmanship done exclusively by hand by artisans, which covers not only the higher grades but all the weave grades, is truly extraordinary and meticulous. Even Panamas of lesser grades, thus with a less fine, less dense weave, such as Panama Brisa which is grade 3, turn out to be an excellent choice for those who want to approach the classic summer Panama but with a more affordable cost.
The process immediately following the braiding of the Panama is forming. Steam and the skilled craftsmanship of our Salento artisans are the fundamental components of this process. In fact, at this stage, the hat is given its desired shape through the use of water steam and ironing, carried out exclusively by hand on wooden forms.
Depending on the type and degree of weaving imparted to the straw, Panama takes on different designations and qualities, suffice it to say that the finest ones can involve up to 8 months of manual labor by local artisans.
Grade 20 of our "Portofino" is a weave of already very high fineness that is achieved by braiding the strands 2 by 2. This hat features Doria's iconic drop shape on the head and is made with grosgrain and cotton belt in two shades of green, moss and mint.
