Women's Wear Prices Drop in May

Women Outer Wear WASHINGTON  Womens retail apparel prices eased down in May, dropped aseasonally adjusted 0.5 percent from the prior month and falling4.4 percent from a year ago. Prices for all apparel, including girls', men's and boys', dropped0.3 percent compared to a month ago and 0.6 percent from the prioryear. Retail prices for all consumer goods increased in May, climbing aseasonally adjusted 0.6 percent from April and 4.2 percent fromlast year, led by increased energy costs. Core prices, excludingthe volatile food and energy sectors, grew 0.2 percent from theprevious month and 2.3 percent versus last year. The largest monthly drop in apparel was in the dress category,where prices fell 6.1 percent in May versus April. They increased,however, compared to last year, rising 1.9 percent. Women'souterwear prices decreased 1.8 percent on a month-to-monthcomparison and tumbled 8.5 percent from last year. Girls' apparelprices increased 0.3 percent from April and suits and separateswere 0.1 percent higher. However, compared to May 2007, girls' apparel prices fell 7.6percent and suits and separates decreased 6 percent. For more, see Monday's issue of WWD.