EXHIBIT 23.1


CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

         We  consent  to the  incorporation  by  reference  in the  Registration
Statement (Form S-8 dated June 25, 1999) pertaining to the Gerber Childrenswear,
Inc. 1998 Long-Term Performance Incentive Plan of our report dated March 3, 1999
with respect to the  consolidated  financial  statements  and schedule of Gerber
Childrenswear, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
December 31, 1998, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.




                                                    /s/ ERNST & YOUNG  LLP


Greenville, South Carolina
June 25, 1999