Apparel chains were hit the hardest, with same-store sales dropping 1% after a robust January during which they rose 5.2%. Gap Inc. chains posted a dramatic 11% plunge, while discount fashion retailer Cato fell 7%. The best performances were reported by American Eagle Outfitters and Ross Stores, which both shot up 6%.

The best performers in the sector were wholesale clubs, rising 6.2% as a group. Costco led the way with an 8% jump and Wal-Mart's Sam's Clubs were up 4.6%. BJ's Wholesale, meanwhile, only inched up 1.6%.

Wal-Mart's discount stores set the pace for that sector of the industry, which mirrored the chain's 2.9% performance. Family Dollar stores' 4.4% climb was the strongest outing in this category, while its competitor Dollar General slid 0.5%.