Zettai ryōiki

Zettai ryōiki (絶対領域, lit. "absolute territory") refers to the area of bare skin in the gap between overknee socks and a miniskirt (or shorts). It can also be used to describe the clothing combination. The term first became widespread in otaku slang as one of the attributes of moe characters in anime and manga, but it is now used by the general public in Japan.

Classification and ideal proportions

The ideal ratio of the length of the miniskirt, the exposed portion of thigh, and the over-knee part of the socks is often considered to be 4:1:2.5 with a tolerance of 25%.

Zettai ryōiki fans classify it by visible bare skin area, that depends on height of the socks and length of the skirt. Zettai ryōiki is graded from grade E (too much leg is seen, the skirt is also too long) to grade A (short skirt, high socks, short exposed area).

Popularity

The clothing combination is very popular in Japan. As with loose socks, a special "socks glue" can be used to glue the socks to the legs for a perfect look.