Christopher & Banks (CBK), Kohls (KSS), and TJX Companies (TJX)

On my vacation, I did what I tend to do this time of year - I spot out opportunities in the retail sector that I think will do well over the next few months. Unlike many sectors of the economy, retail is one area that I come to believe in Peter Lynch's "Buy What You Know" philosophy.

To that end, I was not impressed by two retailers, namely Christopher & Banks (CBK) and Kohls (KSS). Both seemed to have merchandise that appeared to me to be tired and not very fashionable and attractive. Those who were shopping with me, felt the same way I did.

However, we did like the offerings at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, which is owned by TJX Companies (TJX). It is interesting to me that the stock charts below actually confirm what I'm seeing in the stores now. I've found this happens with some frequency this time of year, for whatever reason. Here are their charts: