Silk Habotai is a lightweight silk fabric made from mulberry silk, woven in a plain weave. The name "Habotai" comes from the use of factory silk and electric-powered looms, as opposed to traditional handloom and wooden looms. This fabric is tightly woven, smooth, soft, and has a gentle sheen. It provides a smooth, comfortable feel when worn.

Lower momme (weight) versions of Habotai are ideal as linings for high-end garments—8mm or 10mm Habotai is often used as a lining for silk chiffon or Georgette dresses, with excellent results. Habotai has a subtle silk sheen, making it lightweight and attractive, but not overly luxurious like silk charmeuse silk fabric. Additionally, Habotai can undergo a sand-washing process, which gives the fabric a soft, vintage-like texture with a slight matte finish. Sand-washed Habotai silk combines simplicity with an antiqued, smooth feel.