About us

 

Our Story 

Our Story

 

THE ANNA’S HAT was founded in 2019 by Diana Davila, driven by a passion to create stylish, functional accessories that celebrate both fashion and practicality. Inspired by her vision of hats that not only provide protection from the sun but also add a touch of elegance to any outfit, Diana set out to design exclusive collections that blend beauty with purpose.

 

The name THE ANNA’S HAT is a tribute to the women who have shaped Diana’s life—her own name, alongside the names of her two daughters, Ivanna and Arianna, reflecting the values of family, heritage, and timeless style.

 

What started with beautifully crafted toquilla straw, wool felt, and leather hats has since evolved into a curated collection of accessories that elevate every wardrobe. Today, THE ANNA’S HAT offers not just hats, but also purses, shoes, and jewelry—each piece designed to complement a person’s unique style while maintaining a commitment to quality and sustainability.

 

At THE ANNA’S HAT, every product is 100% handmade with the finest materials, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship. We are proud to be eco-friendly, using organic and sustainable practices to create accessories that you can feel good about wearing.

 

Join us in celebrating style, quality, and sustainability with THE ANNA’S HAT—where elegance meets eco-conscious living.

 

Our Mission

 

At THE ANNA’S HAT, our mission is to preserve and celebrate Ecuadorian indigenous craftsmanship by supporting the creation of unique, handmade pieces that showcase traditional artistry to the world. We are dedicated to creating sustainable work opportunities for our talented team of Ecuadorian artisans, empowering them to continue their craft while sharing their heritage globally.

 

The story of the Panama Hat

 

Despite its name, the Panama hat originates from Ecuador, where it has been handcrafted for centuries. In the 1850s, due to limited tourism in Ecuador, skilled artisans began exporting their hats to Panama, a growing hub for trade and commerce. There, they gained significant popularity, especially among tourists. As the hats were sold to California during the Gold Rush, they became widely known as “Panama hats.”

 

The iconic Panama hat’s global fame was solidified in 1906 when U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt was photographed wearing one during his visit to Panama to oversee the construction of the Panama Canal. From that moment on, the hats were associated with Panama, despite their Ecuadorian origins.

 

Made from the plaited leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant, also known as toquilla straw, these hats are renowned for their craftsmanship and lightweight, breathable material. The intricate weaving process can take anywhere from a week to several months, depending on the quality and finesse of the hat. Perfect for sunny weather, Panama hats provide excellent sun protection and are commonly worn on golf courses and in tropical climates.

Mahalo 🌸