In addition to the miniskirt , Mary Quant is often credited with inventing the colored and patterned tights ( pantyhose ) that often went with the miniskirt . These are also attributed to Cristobal Balenciaga or John Bates . In addition to the miniskirt , Mary Quant is often credited with inventing the colored and patterned tights that tended to accompany the garment , although these are also attributed to Cristobal Balenciaga or John Bates .