New data from the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor shows clothing and accessories sales rose by 0.23% month on month on a seasonally adjusted basis, and by 9.39% over the year unadjusted.
The overall retail sector, excluding auto dealers and petrol stations, recorded a 0.2% monthly gain seasonally adjusted and a 5.72% annual increase unadjusted.
These figures follow record-high consumer spending during the November-December holiday season, which grew 4.1% year on year.
NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said: “Consumers demonstrated continued resilience in January, showing moderate spending growth on the heels of record-high spending during the holiday season. This was the fourth consecutive month that sales rose from the month before, and year-over-year gains were particularly strong. Consumer spending continues to drive the broader economy forward, supported by healthy household finances and real wage gains that have increased purchasing power. Retailers are doing their part by leveraging supply chains and new technologies to ensure that products remain affordable for American families.”
The data, powered by Affinity Solutions, showed that core retail sales excluding restaurants as well as motor vehicle dealers and fuel outlets were up 0.15% from December and 5.51% compared to January last year.
In December, these figures stood at a 1.6% month-on-month increase and a 3.58% annual rise.
Other categories reporting annual gains included digital products, health and personal care stores, general merchandise stores, which rose 5.46%, sporting goods, hobby, music and book shops, which increased by 4.94% and furniture and home furnishings stores, up 2.39%.
