So much for the Hemline Theory, which speculates that when hemlines rise, stock prices follow.Because despite aless-than-stellar economy, runway showsare filled with miles of legs in miniskirts.
The origins of the mini
We have the "youthquake" of the early '60s (and the resurgence in the '80s) to thank for giving birth to the short styles that leggy women love.
Valerie Steele, in Fifty Years of Fashion says there is still some controversy about who "invented" the miniskirt:
Courrèges insists 'I was the man who invented the mini. Mary Quant only commercialized the idea.' But Quant dismisses his claim: 'That's how the French are...I don't mind, but it's just not as I remembered it...It wasn't me or Courrèges who invented the miniskirt anyway -- it was the girls in the street who did it.
How to wear the miniskirt
- Very short styles are unquestionably youthful. Although the notion of "dressing your age" is dated, microminis look best on younger women. However, it's easy to modify the look for any age: just go a few inches above the knee for an updated look that's still flattering and wearable.
- Good rule of thumb in case you're wondering if your womanly figure can handle thigh-grazing stules: a skirt should never be wider than it is short.
- Remember that everything -- getting into a cab, picking up that lucky penny you stumble upon in the parking lot, sitting on a stool - is a challenge in a mini. Plan accordingly.
- Shoe choices: everything from flat sandals to kitten heels. Stilettos and microminis only for the fashionably fearless.
- Top your mini off with one of the new, fuller tops such as a bomber jacket for the most up-to-the-minute silhouette.
