SENSI STUDIO

Despite being named after another country, the Panama is made in... Ecuador. A symbol of the state that sits along South America's west coast, the classic hat is made from palm leaves, once dried and woven, give the design its iconic allure. It's precisely this "toquilla straw" that Sensi Studio has also been using to produce a selection of bags and totes since 2010. Founded by Stephany Hollihan de Sensi, the label was first set up in the port city of Guayaquil. Studying Fashion Design and obtaining a Master's degree in Brand Management at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni in Milan in 2006, the designer made her debut alongside Tomas Maier, whom she helped with his eponymous brand until 2010.
Once back in Ecuador, she established her own label to offer a range of summer basics. Starting with hats, she gradually expanded her skills into other areas of accessories before launching her Ready-to-Wear collection in 2014.
Crafted by hand, Sensi Studios accessories are created by women in the Andes, using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Working hand in hand with local craftspeople and paying them fair trade wages, the label's mission is to keep traditional crafts alive as well as creating local jobs. Once cleaned, the straw is dyed and dried in the sun. It is then collected by craftspeople who use it to weave a variety of designs. Products are subsequently sent to the label's factory for finishing touches. Ready-to-Wear pieces are also hand-embroidered by local artisans.
Bridging traditional and contemporary designs, all Sensi Studio pieces are made entirely in Ecuador. Stephany Hollihan de Sensi has no intention of stopping there. She is currently working on a swimwear collection that will also be produced locally. Plenty to brighten up many summers ahead.