The cool and respectable style of the Panamanian Man.

Cari Mackey
Aug 21, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Apr 24, 2023

The first time a boy gets to wear his montuno is a great day of pride for him. This word "montuno" translates to "made of the life of the mountains." It originated in the interior of Panama and is the traditional dress for the men of of Panama to wear for national celebrations, and the special festivities in their lives.

Having watched the men around him working hard, providing for their families, and being his role models, the little boy dreams of being strong like them one day and this is his first shot at belonging to the tribe that makes up his world. This is his day and the pride shows on his face, in his walk, and they way he spends time with his family who he now gets to emulate.

The hat he wears is called a Sombrero Pintado which is the traditional Panamanian hat. It is made from the toquilla palm leaf and the way you wear it can signify if you are looking for love...or not.

His hand woven sandals are called Cutarras and it is believed that they originated in this area of Panama where indigenous people made them entirely from leather. Florencio (photo) makes his own sandals. They are simple, comfortable, functional, and awesome.

Did you know the most expensive shoe ever is valued at $20 million?! This is what my sister would call a "sitting shoe" definitely not made for walking.

That sweet woven bag he's rockin' is called a Chácara. Traditionally woven of three different natural fibers, it is part of the Ngöbe Buglé idigenous life used for everything from carrying their babies to produce and come in all colors and sizes. A great artisan craft to take home with you as a gift for the dog-sitter.