A short skirt trademarked in 1960 by British designer Mary Quant. The miniskirt was a symbol of sexual freedom for women during the mod period in fashion. They were offered in lengths ranging from 18 inches below the waist, or mid-thigh, to less than 12 inches below the waist, which were called micro miniskirts. The mini dress, derived from the miniskirt, was revived in the 1980s and both the dress and the skirt continue today as fashion staples, either worn with boots, leggings, or on their own.
See also Mod look.
Historical Dictionary of the Fashion Industry. Francesca Sterlacci and Joanne Arbuckle.