Craftsmanship, Culture & Community
Alma Montecristi celebrates Latin American identity by empowering artisan communities, preserving ancestral weaving techniques, and promoting sustainable luxury craftsmanship.
We aim to:
• Empower artisans mostly women
• Protect ancestral weaving traditions
• Promote sustainable craftsmanship
Revitalize and protect the ancient hand-weaving tradition of the sombrero de paja toquilla (Panama Hat),officially recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Valerie Garmino and her team work directly with intergenerational master weavers, documenting each artisan’s unique story and technique.
Launch a digital archive and storytelling platform to preserve and share weaving methods, family lineages, and artisan voices for future generations.
A timeless craft passed down through generations.
The toquilla straw hat globally known as the Panama Hat is more than a symbol of elegance. It is a living expression of Ecuador’s ancestral artistry, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Each Valerie Garmino hat is a tribute to this legacy, handcrafted in Montecristi by certified master artisans who honor centuries-old rituals and weaving techniques.
Backed by Ecuador’s IEPI Denomination of Origin, every piece guarantees authenticity, cultural integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship.
More than a fashion statement, the toquilla hat is a living symbol of ancestral heritage and enduring artistry.
