A survey by the National Retail Federation’s online unit Shop.org revealed that apparel, accessories and footwear sales hit $18.3 billion in 2006, way ahead of computer hardware and software sales placed at $17.2 billion. It was the first time in history that Americans spent more online on clothing.

“Apparel retailers have overcome a number of hurdles to encourage shoppers to buy clothing and accessories online. Retailers are doing such a great job online that in some cases it’s easier to find and buy clothing on the web than it is in a store.” said Scott Silverman, executive director of Shop.org.

The report said apparel retailers have encouraged online sales through free or discounted shipping and easy exchange policies. They also are using technologies on their sites where customers can zoom and rotate merchandise or see the item in different colors before buying.

The survey predicted online apparel sales will hit 22.1 billion US dollars in 2007, or about 10 percent of all clothing sales.

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