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                                                                      Exhibit 23





                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on
Form S-8, pertaining to the Blair Corporation 2000 Omnibus Stock Plan, of our
report dated February 2, 2000, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements of Blair Corporation and Subsidiary incorporated by reference in its
Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1999 and the related
financial statement schedule included therein, filed with Securities and
Exchange Commission.

                                                     /s/ Ernst & Young LLP



Buffalo, New York
July 18, 2000