Orphaned/Sandbox/Zattai Rouiki

"Absolute Territory" (zettai ryouiki in Japanese) describes the area of uncovered thigh between the skirt and thigh-high stockings. It actually shows less skin than simply a short skirt, but the lighter area of skin draws the eye, making it seem more scandalous than it actually is. Zettai Ryouiki is made up of three components: socks, skin, and skirt.

In addition to being a fanservice trope, Zettai Ryouiki is, by nature, a sensual costume that doesn't reveal the "naughty bits". It symbolizes budding, innocent sexuality, a trait common for The Ingenue who is already aware of her attractiveness but not (yet) cynical enough to put it to use (which is why many a Tsundere wears Zettai Ryouiki). Of course, as with any symbols, Genre Savvy characters can Invoked Trope it on purpose even if far from the described archetype themselves.

An Action Girl may trade the skirt for hotpants but if it doesn't include thigh-highs and visible skin, it's not Zettai Ryouiki. This trope not only covers socks, but Thigh-High Boots as well.

The term originates from Neon Genesis Evangelion to designate an area of Absolute Terror, although it's had considerable semantic drift.

When combined with a type of Girlish Pigtails called "tsundere tails", this can be a visual cue that the character is a Tsundere. This can be considered a Moe attribute and thus, appear prominently in character designs and schoolgirl outfits.

See also Sailor Fuku (a school uniform this trope is often combined with), Stocking Filler (for stockings without the skirts), Mini-Dress of Power, Who Wears Short Shorts?, and She's Got Legs. Compare with Opera Gloves, which is the equivalent for arms.

Note that the stockings or boots must come above the knee and there must be exposed skin between the stockings and skirt in order for it to qualify for this trope.