I've had a few flings with Lao women over the years. I'd suggest they're pretty much like Thais but without the same consumerism baggage... and even more conservative. Everywhere you go, you'll see women wearing the traditional 'sinh', even in the workplace, whereas you'll see Thai women go to work in a pair of jeans... but indeed, Isaan people probably have more in common with Laotians than Bangkokians. In the larger centres of Laos however, you'll still find a smattering of discos with girls in hot pants, if that's your thing.