Ampliare
Ampliare
Ampliare

LAS TABLAS, IN THE PROVINCE OF LOS SANTOS, IS HOME TO THE NATIONAL POLLERA FESTIVAL, A GATHERING THAT FEATURES THE VERY BEST OF PANAMA’S COUTURE

Inherited from the Spanish metropolis back in the 17th century with a watered-down version of thin linen fabrics –suitable for the sweltering tropical heat- and embroidered by refined crafty hands with dazzling decorations made up of pearls, precious gems and pure-gold tassels, the Pollera skirt won its place as Panama’s female garment of choice.
Beyond the exaltation as the supreme complement to the beauty of the Panamanian woman, worn in national holidays and in the most sumptuous social functions –even when the time to tie the knot finally comes- the Pollera sits with increasing glamour atop the altar of folklore-oriented haute couture.
Consisting of two separate pieces –a shirt and a large skirt called polleron- the garment is woven by hand with an array of different stitches and spruced up with little plaits and embroideries.
The making process can stretch out from one to two years, something that bears out its delicate splendor. Its location of choice is Las Tablas, a sightseeing place in the province of Los Santos and home to the most traditional polleras of all.
The originality, colorfulness and happiness that reigns during the National Pollera Festival –it was founded in 1957 and it’s taken place every year since July 22 as part of the Santa Librada Patron Day Festivities in Las Tablas– gathers thousands of girls from across the country, as well as national and international visitors that swarm over the streets and squares.
Viewed as the only known contest –officially recognized– that doles out an annual prize, the different festivities and celebrations that unfold around the country all year long actually pay tribute to the pollera. But the festival held in Las Tablas confirms that this small town is no doubt an interesting travel destination that’s complemented by its proximity to the El Uverito Beach, blessed with special conditions for the practice of windsurfing.
Considered a powerhouse of national culture –as put it by Panamanian writer, composer and folklorist Bolivar Gonzalez– the pollera from Las Tablas takes the cake as far as originality is concerned, let alone a token of enthusiasm for girls from around the country that keep the fire of its popularity burning as a garment of good taste and high patriotic values.

 

Read more on www.caribbeannewsdigital.com/panama