DATE: Monday, June 16, 1997                 TAG: 9706130180

SECTION: DAILY BREAK             PAGE: E1   EDITION: FINAL 

COLUMN: STYLE FILE 

SOURCE: BY KIM WADSWORTH, CORRESPONDENT 

                                            LENGTH:   49 lines

MEN'S UNDERWEAR HAS BEGUN MAKING FASHION STATEMENT

Time was that men's underwear and fashion weren't discussed in the same breath. No more; relentless Calvin Klein ads and drooping-panted youth fashions have changed all of that.

``Underwear has evolved from an everyday necessity to a fashion statement,'' says Lisa C. Rhoades, marketing director for Hanes.

The newest style combines the fashion and fit of both boxers and briefs.

So mentionable are ``unmentionables'' that Hanes unabashedly trumpets trendy trou as a great gift idea.

Rhoades suggests personalizing gifts by taking plain boxers or T-shirt and creating designs with waterproof markers or paints, a great activity for kids.

Bravo

It's the season for bathing suits and bridal gowns, so the latest in bra inserts from Bravo should come in handy for those needing a little something extra.

Available in three sizes, these washable foam cups come in Double Shaper, to add a fuller shape naturally; Soft Shape, for just a hint of shape; and Half Pad, a push up for bustiers to offer natural cleavage.

Prices range from $8 to $10. They're available at Hobie's in Virginia Beach.

Shady characters

Attention beachcombers, boaters, tennis players and summer sport lovers: The latest in sun protection comes in the form of a ``sportslens'' designed by DIGI.

It comes in two styles, a visor-shaped lens or cap lens that can be worn over prescription glasses.

The Sportlens offers full UVB protection, stays on even in wind, and is unisex in design. They're vailable for $55 in red, black, white, purple, navy and teal at J. Goldman shoes, Virginia Beach. ILLUSTRATION: [Color Photos]

HANES

VICKI CRONIS

The Virginian-Pilot

VICKI CRONIS

The Virginian-Pilot

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