Rutete

Rutete is a Norwegian term describing a checkered or plaid pattern used in textiles and other surfaces. The pattern consists of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines that create squares or rectangles in alternating colors. The checks can be small or large and may use two colors or several. Rutete fabrics can be produced by weaving, knitting, or printing, and are common in cotton, wool, and blends.

In fashion, rutete appears in shirts, dresses, jackets, skirts, and accessories, and is also widely used in home textiles such as tablecloths, curtains, and blankets. The style is associated with casual and classic aesthetics and is often used in school uniforms or traditional-inspired outfits. Variants range from small gingham-like checks to medium- and large-sized plaids.

While rutete denotes the checkered geometry in general, it is distinct from more specific patterns such as tartan or plaid with clan or regional associations. Those terms refer to particular traditions and sett definitions, whereas rutete serves as a broad descriptor for the checkered motif itself.

In textile manufacturing, achieving even checks requires attention to weave alignment or print registration. Care instructions vary by fiber; many rutete fabrics are machine washable, though wool blends may require gentler handling. Rutete remains a versatile and enduring motif, recurring across fashion and home decor across different eras and cultures.