A Guide to the Best of Southern California : FASHION : Out Skirts

A funny thing happened to the girdle on its way to revival. Madonna and other trim trendsetters decided to wear the undergarment in lieu of a skirt, and a new look was born.

As with any revival, fashion terminology has been updated, leaving the word girdle in the dust with gauchos. Now called hip slips, these familiar foundations have been retooled in an abbreviated version. They are being paired with bustiers, big, white shirts, form-fitting Lycra tops and leather jackets.

Hip slips are infiltrating street fashion, says Leslie Marks, fashion director for Robinson’s. They are “worn by women who have long worn bike shorts and stretch leggings and are looking for something new.”

Hip slips are made of a heavyweight Lycra floral lace reinforced with a strategic tummy-centered, V-shaped panel. Underneath is a built-in panty. The slips come in three shades--nude, black or white--and two lengths. The super-mini is 15 inches long; the more modest version is 17 inches long. Each sells for $35.

More timid souls might consider starting an unthinkable trend--actually wearing them under clothes.

Hip slips are available at Robinson’s stores throughout Southern California.