"And all your future lies beneath your hat." John Oldham
"The suit's real neat, but do I have to wear the hat?"
"These are unsophisticated men...The way we look together presents a uniform image of strength and organization. Don't say anything. Look mean. No smiling." Jake & Elwood
Hats. How many "hats" have you had to wear this year? I get it. Crazy.
Beyond sheer functionality, the symbolism of hats is truly endless and fascinating. Take the "Panama Hat" for example. Most the world knows it as a fedora style hat like Jake and Elwood here but made of straw. Think, Hannibal Lecter. Yeah, gives me chills too. OK, let's think of Gatsby instead. Much better.
Despite its name it is made in Ecuador but the name stuck as transients from Ecuador were seen passing through Panama on their way north sporting the stylish hat for sun protection in the 1800's and then there's all those photos from the canal. Yes, it's a touchy subject in Ecuador.
Getting to the point now. The true Panama Hat is actually called the "Sombrero Pintado." Named after the town where it originated in Panama. It's made of the same straw as the Panama Hat but has some secrets to tell. Depending on the way you wear it, it could signify that you are looking for a lover (ooh la la) or looking for a fight. So, you might want to look into that if you plan to wear one.
Isn't this so much easier than trying to figure out which way to swipe?
National Hat Day is January 15th so you can expect we will revisit this again and I expect to see some serious hat photos so start planning. Hopefully, I will remember. Feel free to remind me!
We would love to hear from you and if you have time, let us know something about the hats in your life, I bet it's fascinating.
Your Friends in Morrillo sending you so much love,
Cari and Ryan Mackey
Owners and Hosts
Morrillo Beach Eco Resort