A lightweight, plain-weave silk fabric with a smooth finish and subtle sheen, traditionally used for linings but now popular for scarves and lightweight garments.
From Japanese 'habutae' meaning 'feather-like', referring to the fabric's light, soft hand. Originally woven in Japan using traditional techniques, it became internationally popular in the early 20th century.
Habotai was the secret behind the perfect drape of 1920s bias-cut gowns – its fluid nature allowed designers like Madeleine Vionnet to create those liquid, body-skimming silhouettes! The fabric's name literally means 'soft as a feather' in Japanese, perfectly describing its ethereal quality.
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