That's interesting Rho4life,
I prefer "ladies," because I agree that "girls" has a dimunitive quality to it. I don't see a "lady" as someone who has to necessarily be so prim and proper as to always do things such as wear a slip under her skirt, etc. I see a "lady" as someone who does what is proper and carries herself in a respectful way. If a slip isn't needed, then I wouldn't wear one and would still consider myself to be a "lady."
SC