The CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, published by the National Retail Federation (NRF), reports that apparel and accessory sales increased by 0.63% from May to June (seasonally adjusted) and rose 13.65% year-over-year (unadjusted).
This growth rate ranks as the second-highest among the nine sectors tracked in the monthly retail sales index, trailing only digital products.
“The summer shopping season got off to a strong start in June. Consumers took advantage of summer sales events, and many began their back-to-school shopping early,” said Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the NRF.
He added, “Retail spending capacity has been supported by retailers’ focus on maintaining accessible pricing and a stable labor market. Year-over-year improvements are particularly notable given the weak performance seen in June 2025.”
Overall retail sales, excluding motor vehicle dealers and gas stations, increased 0.33% on a seasonally adjusted monthly basis and 9.41% on an unadjusted annual basis in June.
By contrast, May recorded monthly gains of 0.42% and an annual increase of 7.19%.
Core retail sales, which exclude restaurants as well as auto dealers and gas stations, rose 0.36% from May to June and 10.08% compared with June 2025.
In May 2026, these metrics showed a 0.39% monthly increase and a 6.98% annual gain.
Year-over-year, all major retail categories registered sales growth, with sporting goods, electronics, and apparel stores leading at 18.53% growth.
All sectors except electronics and appliance stores, and furniture and home furnishings stores, posted monthly sales increases.
During the first half of the year, unadjusted total sales rose 6.81% year-over-year, while core retail sales increased by 6.84%.
