Palermo

Designer Name: DORIA 1905

Our Palermo is a fedora-style hat made of Fine Panama. The material from which the famous Panama is obtained undergoes several processing stages: it is a weave of "paja-toquilla" strands, a type of straw obtained from the leaves of Carludovica palmata, a plant native to Central and South America. The artisanal processing of these straw strands is done entirely by hand and is an important element of Ecuador's cultural heritage; in fact, these ancient production techniques have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The splendid workmanship, carried out exclusively by hand by artisans, applies not only to the superior qualities but to all grades of weaving, and is truly extraordinary and meticulous. Even lower-grade Panamas, with a less fine, less dense weave, such as the Panama Brisa, which is Grade 3, are an excellent choice for those who want a classic summer Panama but at a more affordable price.

The process immediately following the weaving of the Panama is the shaping. Steam and the expert craftsmanship of our Salento artisans are the key components of this process. During this phase, the hat is given the desired shape using steam and ironing, performed exclusively by hand on wooden forms.

Depending on the type and degree of weave used to weave the straw, Panama hats are given different names and qualities. The finest straw can require up to eight months of manual labor by local artisans.

The grade 20 weave of our Palermo hat is already extremely fine, achieved by braiding the threads two by two. This hat features the classic Fedora shape on the head and a small brim. It comes with a grosgrain and cotton band in bauxite red and wine red.