**4. Applications of microfibers**

At the start of the development, the researchers searched intensively for suitable fields of application for their microfibers, since they had not yet existed in previous clothing and technical textile concepts (Rupp & Yonenaga, 2000). Microfibers offer a great variety of applications in fashion clothing owing to their extra softness, full handle, drape, comfort and easy care properties (Anonymous, 2000). One general point that should be mentioned is that the desired properties (i.e. sophisticated handle, pleasant silky appearance, leather lookalike, good filtration properties, etc.) are only obtained when a suitable fabric construction is produced. As well as fineness, the material combination, cross-section of the elementary filaments and their effect when used in combinations are extremely important and can offset negative parameters (i.e. proneness to creasing, somewhat lower absolute tenacity) (Falkai, 1991). Items of polyester microfibers, both 100 percent polyester and blends with other fibers, include coats, suits, blouses, dresses, wall coverings, upholstery, sleeping bags, tents, filters and toweling (Kadolph et al., 1993).
