In the apparel sector an SG Cowen & Co. report sees Gap Inc.'s same-store sales falling by between 5% and 7%, and Hot Topic dropping between 6% and 8%. The firm predicts big increases from Bebe Stores, from 13% to 15%; Abercrombie & Fitch, from 13% to 15%; and American Eagle Outfitters, at 9% to 11%.

"Deteriorating macro trends are far less likely to impact retailers addressing higher income customers with strong brand recognition than those targeting a lower income customer with weaker brand recognition," Cowen's report says.

In Wachovia Securities' coverage domain, analysts see Pier 1 Imports falling by between 11% and 13% and Hancock Fabrics dropping from 4% to 6%. In the dollar-store sector the company predicts Dollar General to post a flat-to-2% jump and Family Dollar to rise 1% to 2%.