DATE: Wednesday, May 7, 1997                TAG: 9705060079

SECTION: DAILY BREAK             PAGE: E3   EDITION: FINAL 

COLUMN: STYLE FILE

FASHION NEWS YOU CAN USE

SOURCE: BY KIM WADSWORTH, CORRESPONDENT 

                                            LENGTH:   61 lines

MOTHS, FABRIC AND SAFE SUN

BEHIND THE SEAMS

Spring is the perfect time to dive into your closet, clear out winter gear, organize your wardrobe - and protect your clothes.

This season, a new moth repellent, OFF! Moth Proofer, offers an alternative to hazardous mothballs, which are toxic not only to people and pets, but harmful to clothing when in direct contact.

Moth Proofer contains lavandin oil, which repels moths without chemical risks. Moth Proofer, a lavender-scented sachet, will protect garments for an entire season, its manufacturer says.

Whether you use the product or not, these tips can help protect your wardrobe:

Launder all garments, as food and perspiration residue attract moths.

Store clothing in a cool, dry area.

Fold clothing as little as possible, preferably along seam lines, and use cloth as opposed to plastic hanging bags to reduce mildew.

Off! Moth Proofer is available at food, drug and merchandise stores for about $3.

FREEDOM FIBERS

Reebok is incorporating Hydromove - a ``thermoregulatory moisture management fabric'' made from polyester - into much of its active wear.

The fabric quickly transports moisture away from the skin, a benefit for runners, tennis players and other aerobic athletes, Reebok claims. This means comfort while maintaining optimum warmth-to-weight ratio.

Shown are support tops, $24, paired with Micromove shorts, $25, both made with Hydromove. The new active wear is available at most athletic and sports merchandise stores.

TAKE COVER

If you're sensible about sun exposure, you can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors even during hot weather.

Sunscreens have been shown to reduce skin-cancer risk substantially. They must be reapplied often, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Here are some products and techniques to consider:

With the annoyance of mosquitoes in the area, Coppertone's new Bug & Sun sunscreen with SPF 15 offers dual protection and retails for $6.99.

For those who prefer the instant gratification of ``sunless tanning'' (the safest way to go), some new products include Estee Lauder Self Action Sunless Tan, Nivea Sunless Tanning Lotion and Coppertone Moisturizing Self Tanners.

The secret to sunless tanning? Exfoliate to remove dry skin (shaving legs is a must). Apply a thin, even layer and the more frequent the application, the deeper the tan.

And wash your hands afterward to prevent orange fingers! ILLUSTRATION: Photos

OFF! MOTH PROOFER

REEBOK

J.C. PENNEY

Send Suggestions or Comments to webmaster@scholar.lib.vt.edu