Raffia Straw
Raffia
is a durable and versatile straw that flourishes in Madagascar. It’s
traditionally used for ropes, supporting beams, roof coverings, artisan
crafts and is perfect for straw fedoras. Our raffia is wild crafted in
Madagascar, meaning it’s an uncultivated native species harvested from
its natural habitat. Unlike traditional farming, wild crafting helps
protect endangered species in developed ecosystems. Locals stagger
harvesting to ensure plenty remains in supply and only the palms of
raffia are taken; the living root is left intact. Those raw materials
are then shipped to our factory and are woven, pressed and finished
with hemp/organic cotton accents.
- Ecuadorian
“Panama” hats have a truly revolutionary history. A Panama is a
traditionally brimmed hat of Ecuadorian origin that’s made from the
plated leaves of the toquilla straw plant.
- The hats are also known as Jipijapa, named for a town in Ecuador once a center of the hat trade.
- Ecuadorian
national hero and emblematic figure, Eloy Alfaro, helped finance his
liberal revolution of Ecuador through the export of Panama hats.
