Retailers Await The Big Chill

Unseasonably warm weather puts a damper on autumn profits, but experts are forecasting good trading for the holiday season.

Unseasonably mild temperatures in late October and early November have been a boon for those wishing for a bit of warm weather before winter's onset. But they have hampered sales of winter clothes, which count on falling temperatures to move sweaters, jackets, and other cold-weather gear.

Although the season is lengthened by new arrivals selling in August, fabrics such as leather, fur and sheepskin are definitely winter sellers. Hopefully these will see a demand by customers for a bit Christmas glamour and the cold weather to come.