Apparel chains were hit the hardest, posting a 10.1% decline as a group. Nearly all of the chains surveyed in the ICSC report had significant declines. For example, Cato Corp. fell 21%, Gap Inc. dropped 16% and Abercrombie & Fitch slid 15%. Limited Brands, a strong performer for the last several months, came out best, with only a 1% decline.

Discount chains, falling 4,6% as a group, also had across-the-board dives. Target, usually the strongest-performer in the sector, was down 6.1%, Wal-Mart fell 4.6% and Family Dollar plummeted 4.9%. TJX Cos. came out less scathed, with a 1% dip.

Department stores were more mixed but still fell 4.5% as a group. Big drops were reported by Dillards (14%) and Kohl's (10.5%). But luxury chains appeared to fare relatively well, with Nordstrom rising 3.1%.