The New York Times says that sales of women’s apparel, usually a staple of the holiday season, are down 6% so far this season.

Expect some bargains as the shopping season wears down:

The drop-off, which the credit card company described Sunday as “surprising,” bodes poorly for chains like Chico’s FAS and Ann Taylor, which specialize in women’s clothing, and could result in steeper-than-expected discounts on their merchandise in the final week before Christmas.

“Even when the dust settles, it is likely to be one of the weakest categories in retail this season,” said John D. Morris, senior retail analyst at Wachovia Securities.

Men looking for similar deals will be out of luck. Sales of men’s clothing are up 4%.

So why are sales of women’s clothing down? Hmm, could it be the fugly clothes? Or maybe you’re broke? What do you think?

Retailers Face an Ominous Holiday Sign [New York Times] (Thanks, Molly!)
(Photo:mainfr4me)

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