tateri

Tateri, also known as Tatteri, is a term primarily used in Japan to describe the characteristic wear and tear seen on aged textiles, particularly those that have been exposed to significant use and the passage of time. It refers to the fading of colors, fraying of fibers, and the development of a worn, often soft or almost translucent texture. This aesthetic is not necessarily viewed as a defect but can be appreciated for the history and character it imparts to an object.

The concept of tateri is often associated with traditional Japanese crafts and everyday objects. For example, old indigo-dyed fabrics, such as those used for work clothes or futon covers, frequently exhibit tateri. This wear can be so pronounced that the original pattern may become indistinct, and the fabric might have a multitude of small holes or repairs. In the context of fashion and design, tateri can be intentionally replicated or sought after in vintage garments and textiles to evoke a sense of authenticity and a connection to the past. The appreciation of tateri highlights a cultural perspective that values patina and the visible signs of an object's life journey.