The Office for National Statistics said
clothing sales were 1.6% down on April's level, the biggest fall since
September 2014. The fall included a drop in internet clothing sales.
Economists had expected retail sales to be flat in May after sales in April were boosted by unusually warm weather.
By contrast, May was cooler than normal.
Food
stores had a good month, with volumes up 0.6%, the biggest increase
since December. Household goods stores and petrol stations also saw
growth.
Some economists have predicted that UK consumer spending
could be on track for a strong year as low inflation and rising wages
give households more disposable income.
