Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the
use of our report dated February 22, 2002, with respect to the consolidated
financial statements and schedule of Gerber Childrenswear, Inc. included in the
Registration Statement (Form S-4) dated October 3, 2002 of Kellwood Company for
the registration of 5,000,000 shares of its common stock.



                                                /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Greenville, South Carolina
October 3, 2002