What does Tate-Ochi mean?

A Japanese buzzword referring to occurrences of fade forming in vertical lines in vintage denim.

Heddels explains Tate-Ochi

Translating literally to “vertical falls”, Tate-ochi refers to the vertical faded stripes that occur in denim made from slub yarn (i.e. yarn that has thicker sections, or slubs, along its length). Tate-ochi usually occurs on vintage jeans and is highly valued in Japan.

Additional Resources

Tate-Ochi or vertical falling fades: