Chico's posts significantly lower net profit

LOS ANGELES, March 6 (Reuters) - Chico's FAS Inc. (CHS.N) said on Tuesday that quarterly net profit fell sharply, as merchandise missteps hurt consumer demand for its women's apparel, and markdowns and store opening costs put a crimp in results.

The operator of the Chico's and White House Black Market chains said fourth quarter net profit was $18.2 million, or 10 cents per share, compared with $44.5 million, or 24 cents per share, a year earlier.

((Reporting by Alexandria Sage, Email: alexandria.sage@reuters.com, Tel: +1-213-955-6781)) Keywords: CHICO'S RESULTS/

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