Retail Sales: Clothing Stores
MRTSSM4481USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
20,237.00
Year-over-Year Change
7.60%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Clothing Stores trend measures monthly sales at clothing and accessory stores in the United States. It is a key indicator of consumer spending and overall economic health.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Retail Sales: Clothing Stores metric tracks the total value of retail sales at establishments primarily engaged in selling new clothing, shoes, and accessories to consumers. It is a widely-used barometer of consumer demand and confidence.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge consumer spending patterns and economic conditions.
Key Facts
- Clothing stores account for over 2% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Clothing sales tend to be sensitive to changes in consumer confidence and disposable income.
- Monthly clothing store sales data is released around the 15th of each month.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Clothing Stores trend measures the total value of monthly sales at U.S. clothing and accessory stores.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Clothing store sales are an important indicator of consumer spending and overall economic health, providing insights into consumer demand and confidence.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures, including clothing store sales, are closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge consumer spending patterns and economic conditions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The monthly clothing store sales data is typically released around the 15th of each month, with a short delay from the reference period.
Related Trends
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Advance Retail Sales: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
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Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Clothing Stores (MRTSSM4481USN), retrieved from FRED.