For the fiscal year ended February 3, 2018

Commission file number: 001-16435

(239) 277-6200

(Registrant's telephone number)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes   ý     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes   ¨     No   ý

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes   ý     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes   ý     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.406 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K ý .

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company", "and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes   ¨     No   ý

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant:

Approximately $1,142,000,000 as of July 29, 2017, based upon the closing stock price on July 28, 2017 as reported by the NYSE.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share – 127,468,432 shares as of February 26, 2018 .

Documents incorporated by reference:

Portions of the Definitive Proxy Statement for the Company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders presently scheduled for June 21, 2018 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

CHICO'S FAS, INC.

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

FOR THE

FISCAL YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 3, 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. See "Item 1A. Risk Factors."

Overview

Chico's FAS, Inc. 1 , is a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women's private branded, sophisticated, casual-to-dressy apparel, intimates and complementary accessories. We operate under the Chico's, White House Black Market ("WHBM") and Soma brand names in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. Our distinct lifestyle brands serve the needs of fashion-savvy women 35 years and older. We earn revenues and generate cash through the sale of merchandise in our domestic and international retail stores, our various e-commerce websites and our call center, which takes orders for all of our brands, and through an unaffiliated franchise partner in Mexico. We view our stores and Company-operated e-commerce websites as a single, integrated sales function rather than as separate sales channels operating independently. As of February 3, 2018 , we operated 1,460 stores across 46 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada, and sold merchandise through 94 franchise locations in Mexico.

Since 1983, we have grown by offering high quality and unique merchandise, supported by compelling marketing and outstanding personalized customer service. While each of our brands has a distinct customer base, the overall portfolio caters to a broad age and economic demographic, with household incomes in the moderate to high income level.

Our Brands

Chico's

The Chico's brand, which began operations in 1983, primarily sells exclusively designed, private branded clothing focusing on women 45 and older. The style sensibility is unique with an individual expression created to illuminate the women wearing the brand. Chico's apparel, including the Black Label, Zenergy and Travelers collections, emphasizes problem solving styles, comfort and relaxed fit. Accessories and jewelry are original and designed to elevate the clothing assortment, allowing our customer to individualize her personal style. Chico's is vertically integrated, controlling almost all aspects of the apparel design process, including choices of pattern, print, construction, design specifications, fabric, finishes and color through in-house designers, purchased designs and independent suppliers.

The distinctive nature of Chico's clothing is also reflected in its sizing, which is comprised of sizes 000, 00 (size 0-2), 0 (size 4-6), 1 (size 8-10), 2 (size 12-14), 3 (size 16-18) and 4 (size 20-22). Chico's will occasionally offer half-sizes (up to 4.5), one-size-fits-all, petite sizes, short and tall inseams, and small, medium and large sizing for some items. The relaxed fit allows us to utilize this kind of sizing and thus offer a wide selection of clothing without investing in a large number of sizes within a single style.

White House Black Market

The WHBM brand, which began operations in 1985 and was acquired in September 2003, is dedicated to being a go-to style destination and authority on wardrobe building. WHBM primarily sells exclusively designed, private branded clothing focusing on women 35 and older. WHBM offers a modern collection for the way women live now, selling stylish and versatile clothing and accessory items, including everyday basics, polished workwear, black and white pieces, and feminine, all-occasion dresses. The accessories at WHBM, such as shoes, belts, scarves, handbags and jewelry, are specifically designed to coordinate with each collection, allowing customers to easily individualize their wardrobe selections. WHBM is vertically integrated, controlling almost all aspects of the apparel design process, including choices of patterns, prints, construction, design specifications, fabric, finishes and color through in-house designers, purchased designs and independent suppliers.

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WHBM uses American sizes in the 00-14 range (with online sizes up to 16), including petite sizing, as well as short and long inseams, and small, medium and large sizing for some items. The fit of the WHBM clothing is tailored to complement the figure of a body-conscious woman, while still remaining comfortable.

Soma

The Soma brand, which began operations in 2004, primarily sells exclusively designed, private branded lingerie, sleepwear, loungewear, activewear, swimwear and beauty products focusing on women 35 and older. The Soma brand's core franchise emphasizes solutions, including vanishing back bras, vanishing edge panties, slimming leggings and cool nights sleepwear. Bras range in size from 32A-46HH. The sleepwear and loungewear offerings range from extra small to extra-extra large sizing. The beauty category consists of the Memorable, Enticing and Oh My Gorgeous lines of fine fragrance. The Soma team develops product offerings by working closely with a small number of independent suppliers to design proprietary products in-house and, in some cases, designs provided by its independent suppliers under labels other than the Soma brand.

Our Business Strategy

Our overall business strategy is focused on building a collection of distinct high-performing retail brands serving the fashion needs of women 35 and older. We seek to accomplish this strategy through our five focus areas: (1) evolving the customer experience, (2) strengthening our brands' positions, (3) leveraging actionable retail science, (4) building growth platforms and (5) achieving operational excellence. Over the long term, we may build our brand portfolio by organic development or acquisition of other specialty retail concepts if research indicates that the opportunity complements our current brands and is appropriate and in the best interest of the shareholders.

We pursue improving the performance of our brands by building our omni-channel capabilities, which includes managing our store base and growing our online presence, by executing marketing plans, by effectively leveraging expenses, by considering additional sales channels and markets, and by optimizing the merchandise offerings of each of our brands. We continue to invest heavily in our omni-channel capabilities in order to allow customers to fully experience our brands in the manner they choose.

We view our stores and Company-operated e-commerce websites as a single, integrated sales function rather than as separate sales channels operating independently. To that end, we often refer to our brands' respective websites as the brand's "largest store". Customers may shop in one place and consummate the purchase somewhere else. Our domestic customers can return merchandise to a store or to our distribution center, regardless of where they purchased it. As a result, we maintain a shared inventory platform for our operations, allowing us to fulfill orders for all channels from our distribution center ("DC") in Winder, Georgia. We also fulfill in-store orders directly from other stores.

We seek to acquire and retain customers by leveraging existing customer-specific data and through targeted marketing, including e-marketing, television, catalogs and mailers. We seek to optimize the potential of our brands with improved product offerings, potential new merchandise opportunities, and brand extensions that enhance the current offerings, as well as through our continued emphasis on our "Most Amazing Personal Service" standard. We also will continue to consider potential alternative sales channels for our brands, including international franchising and licensing, wholesale opportunities and others.

In fiscal 2016, we began implementing cost reduction and operating efficiency initiatives, including realigning marketing and digital commerce, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing non-merchandise expenses. In fiscal 2017, we strengthened our brand positioning and began preparing for future growth. We are now intently focused on evolving the customer experience and leveraging actionable retail science to drive profitable retail sales. Additionally, we have launched multiple initiatives that utilize technology and new platforms to drive growth.

Our Customer Service Model

Our customers deserve outstanding and personalized customer service, which we strive to achieve through our trademark "Most Amazing Personal Service" standard. We believe this service model is one of our competitive advantages and a key to our continued success. An important aspect of our successful implementation of this model involves the specialized training we give sales associates to help meet their customers' fashion and wardrobe needs, including clothing and accessory style, color selection, coordination of complete outfits and suggestions on different ways in which to wear the clothing and accessories. Our sales associates are encouraged to develop long-term relationships with their customers, to know their customers' preferences and to assist those customers in selecting merchandise best suited to their tastes and wardrobe needs. Our brands utilize tablets in stores to access customer purchase history and style preferences as a clienteling tool that enhances the shopping experience in a personalized and efficient manner.

We also serve our customers' needs and build customer loyalty through our customer rewards programs. Our programs are designed to reward our loyal customers by leveraging the rich data our customers share with us to deliver a relevant and engaging experience with our brands. The benefits provided are routinely evaluated in conjunction with our overall customer relationship management and marketing activities to ensure they remain a compelling reason for customers to shop at our brands.

Our Boutiques and Outlet Stores

Our boutiques are located in upscale indoor shopping malls, outdoor shopping areas and standalone street-front locations in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. Boutique locations are determined on the basis of various factors, including, but not limited to: geographic and demographic characteristics of the market, nearby competitors, our own network of existing boutiques, the location of the shopping venue, including the site within the shopping center, proposed lease terms, anchor or other co-tenants, parking accommodations and convenience. Our merchandise is also sold through franchise locations in Mexico, including boutique locations as well as shop-in-shop formats within a department store environment.

Our outlet stores are primarily located in quality outlet centers. The Chico's and WHBM brand outlets, including our hybrid Chico's Off the Rack format, contain a mixture of made-for-outlet and clearance merchandise. The made-for-outlet product carries a higher margin than the clearance items from our boutique stores. Soma outlets contain a mix of boutique and clearance merchandise. We also sell clearance merchandise on our websites. We regularly review the appropriate ratio of made-for-outlet and clearance merchandise sold at our outlets and adjust that ratio as appropriate.

As of February 3, 2018 , we operated 1,460 retail stores in 46 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. As of February 3, 2018 , our merchandise was also sold through 94 franchise locations in Mexico. The following tables set forth information concerning our retail stores during the past five fiscal years:

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1 Our fiscal years end on the Saturday closest to January 31 and are designated by the calendar year in which the fiscal year commences. The periods presented in these financial statements are the fiscal years ended February 3, 2018 ("fiscal 2017 ", " 2017 " or "current period"), January 28, 2017 ("fiscal 2016 ", " 2016 " or "prior period"), January 30, 2016 ("fiscal 2015 " or " 2015 "), January 31, 2015 ("fiscal 2014 " or " 2014 ") and February 1, 2014 ("fiscal 2013 " or " 2013 "). Each of these periods had 52 weeks, except for fiscal 2017, which consisted of 53 weeks.

In fiscal 2018 , we anticipate approximately 50 net store closures. We continuously evaluate the appropriate new store growth rate and closures in light of economic conditions and may adjust the growth rate and closures as conditions require or as opportunities arise. Our unaffiliated franchisee expects to continue opening franchise locations in Mexico.

Digital Commerce

Each of our brands has a digital flagship: www.chicos.com , www.whbm.com and www.soma.com , which provide customers the ability to browse and order merchandise, locate our stores and engage with content to enhance the shopping experience. Additionally, in fiscal 2017 , we launched www.chicosofftherack.com , a new e-commerce site that gives customers 24/7 access to the same exclusive styles available at our Chico's Outlet locations. Our websites are designed to complement the in-store experience and play a vital role in both our omni-channel strategy and the customer experience. Some products are available exclusively online including extended sizes, additional style and color choices, premier partner brands and clearance items. Online merchandise is also available for order through our call centers and in our stores through our clienteling applications. Domestic customers may return product directly to our DC or in our store locations regardless of the channel in which the merchandise was purchased.

We remain focused on our efforts to better align with shifts in customer traffic and consumers' consumption of media and content. As a result of significant increases in mobile traffic, in 2016 we implemented a responsive website design for Chico's and WHBM to ensure a consistent and seamless customer experience across devices. In fiscal 2017, we completed the responsive website design conversion for Soma. We will maintain focus on our omni-channel approach by enhancing all brand websites through new features, functionality, search engine optimization and content designed to improve and evolve the customer's experience.

Marketing and Advertising

Driven by our industry-leading transactional data, our brands continue to develop targeted and effective marketing strategies. We continue to optimize and shift advertising from traditional to digital media with a focus on attracting new customers and using predictive modeling and advanced segmentation to drive retention and reactivation.

Our marketing programs currently consists of the following media mix to engage current and prospective customers:

In 2018 , our marketing efforts will remain focused on attracting customers to our iconic brands' differentiated positioning by leveraging retail science and introducing alternative sales channels.

Information Technology/Data Analytics

We are committed to having information systems that enable us to obtain, analyze and act upon information on a timely basis and to maintain effective financial and operational controls. This effort includes testing of new products and applications so that we are able to take advantage of technological developments to support and enhance our processes across all areas of our business. We use a proprietary customer database, together with data analytics, to customize our communications and make targeted offers to customers in an effort to increase traffic in-store and online and to increase conversion.

Merchandise Distribution

The distribution functions for all brands are handled from our DC in Winder, Georgia. New merchandise is generally received daily at the DC. Imported merchandise is shipped from the country of export by sea, air, truck or rail, as circumstances require. Domestic merchandise is primarily shipped by truck or rail. Upon arrival at the DC, merchandise is sorted and packaged for shipment to individual stores or is held for future store replenishment or direct shipment to customers. Merchandise is generally pre-ticketed with price and related informational tags at the point of manufacture.

Our DC has been granted Foreign Trade Zone status from the Department of Commerce and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This status facilitates international expansion and allows us to move certain merchandise to the DC without paying U.S. Customs duty until the merchandise is shipped to domestic stores or online customers.

Product Sourcing

Our product sourcing activities are performed by a centralized shared service team focused on identifying cost-effective opportunities to improve production speed and flexibility while maintaining our quality standards. In fiscal 2017 , China sources accounted for approximately 52% of our merchandise cost. We take ownership in the foreign country, at a designated point of entry into the United States, or at our DC, depending on the specific terms of sale.

We purchase the majority of our merchandise through key suppliers with whom we have established strategic collaborations; these key suppliers represented 61% of our purchases in fiscal 2017 with our largest supplier accounting for 23% of the total. Currently, we believe our product sourcing is appropriately distributed among suppliers and across countries of manufacture taking into consideration product quality execution, flexibility and speed at an acceptable cost and level of risk.

Competition

The women's retail apparel and intimate apparel business is highly competitive and includes local, national and international department stores, specialty stores, boutique stores, catalog companies and online retailers. We believe that our distinctively designed merchandise offerings and emphasis on customer service distinguish us from our competitors.

Trademarks and Service Marks

We are the owner of certain registered and common law trademarks and service marks (collectively referred to as "Marks").

Our Marks include, but are not limited to: CHICO'S, CHICO'S PASSPORT, ZENERGY, SO SLIMMING, WHITE HOUSE BLACK MARKET, WHBM REWARDS, WORK KIT, SOMA, SOMA INTIMATES, ENTICING, COOL NIGHTS, EMBRACEABLE, VANISHING BACK, VANISHING EDGE, LOVE SOMA REWARDS and CHICO'S OFF THE RACK. We have registered or are seeking to register a number of these Marks in the United States, Canada, Mexico and other foreign countries.

In the opinion of management, our rights in the Marks are important to our business. Accordingly, we intend to maintain our Marks and the related registrations and applications. We are not aware of any material claims of infringement or other challenges to our rights to use any registered Marks in the United States.

Available Information

Through our investor relations website, www.chicosfas.com , we make available free of charge our Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports are electronically filed with the SEC and are available at www.sec.gov . This website also includes recent press releases, corporate governance information, beneficial ownership reports, institutional presentations, quarterly and institutional conference calls and other financial data, including historical store square footage.

Our Code of Ethics, which is applicable to all of our employees, including the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer and the Board of Directors ("Board"), is posted on our investor relations website. Any amendments to or waivers from our Code of Ethics are also available on this website. Charters of each of the Audit Committee, Human Resources, Compensation and Benefits Committee, Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee and Executive Committee as well as the Corporate Governance Guidelines, Insider Trading Policy, Terms of Commitment to Ethical Sourcing and Stock Ownership Guidelines are available on this website or upon written request by any shareholder.

Employees

As of February 3, 2018 , we employed approximately 19,000 people, approximately 30% of whom were full-time employees and the balance of whom were part-time employees. The number of part-time employees fluctuates during peak selling periods. As of the above date, approximately 90% of our employees worked in our boutique and outlet stores. We have no collective bargaining agreements covering any of our employees, have never experienced any material labor disruption and are unaware of any efforts or plans to organize our employees. We consider the overall relations with our employees to be good.

An investment in our common stock involves certain risks. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks that may have a material adverse effect on the Company, and the risks described herein are not listed in order of the potential occurrence or severity . There is no assurance that we have identified, assessed and appropriately addressed all risks affecting our business operations . Additional risks and uncertainties could adversely affect our business and our results. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected, and the market price for our shares could decline. Further, to the extent that any of the information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K constitutes forward-looking statements, the risk factors set forth below are cautionary statements, identifying important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. There can also be no assurance that the actual future results, performance, benefits or achievements that we expect from our strategies, systems, initiatives or products will occur.

If we cannot successfully execute our business strategy, our consolidated financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely impacted. There are numerous risks associated with this strategy including, but not limited to, the following:

Numerous economic conditions, all of which are outside of our control, could negatively affect the level of our customers' spending or our costs of operations. If these economic conditions persist for a sustained period, our consolidated financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely impacted. These economic conditions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Our omni-channel operations (including our websites and catalogs) are a critical part of our customers' overall experience with our brands and will be a significant contributor to our future business growth and profitability. Our inability or failure to successfully manage and maintain those operations could materially and adversely impact our results of operations. Specific risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

In addition to the dependence of our retail websites on technology as discussed above, we also rely on various information technology systems to manage our overall operations, and failure of those systems to operate as expected or a significant interruption in service could materially adversely impact our consolidated financial condition and results of operations. Risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

Our sourcing and distribution strategies are subject to numerous risks that could materially adversely impact our consolidated financial condition and results of operations. These risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

Our business is subject to numerous other risks that could materially adversely impact our consolidated financial condition and results of operations. These risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

None.

Stores

At fiscal year-end for 2017 , 2016 and 2015 our total consolidated selling square feet was 3.5 million , 3.6 million and 3.7 million , respectively. For a general description of our leases, see Note 1 to our financial statements under the heading "Operating Leases." As of February 3, 2018 , our 1,460 stores were located in 46 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada, as follows:

NSSC and Distribution Centers

Our NSSC is located on approximately 65 acres in Fort Myers, Florida and consists of approximately 504,000 square feet of office space. Our distribution center is located on approximately 110 acres in Winder, Georgia and consists of approximately 583,000 square feet of distribution, fulfillment, call center and office space.

In July 2015, White House Black Market, Inc. (WHBM) was named as a defendant in Altman v. White House Black Market, Inc., a putative class action filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. The complaint alleges that WHBM, in violation of federal law, willfully published more than the last five digits of a credit or debit card number on customers' point-of-sale receipts. Plaintiff seeks an award of statutory damages of $100 to $1,000 for each alleged willful violation of the law, as well as attorneys' fees, costs and punitive damages. The Company denies the material allegations of the complaint and believes the case is without merit. On October 25, 2017, the magistrate in the matter recommended that the class be certified. On November 8, 2017, WHBM filed objections to such recommendation. On February 12, 2018, the District Court issued an order certifying the class. On February 26, 2018, the Company filed a petition with the District Court for permission to appeal its decision to the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The Company will continue to vigorously defend the matter, including a planned motion for summary judgment to dismiss all claims. At this time, the Company is unable to reasonably estimate the potential loss or range of loss, if any, related to the lawsuit because there are a number of unknown facts and unresolved legal issues that may impact the amount of any potential liability, including, without limitation, (a) whether the action will ultimately be permitted to proceed as a class, (b) if the action proceeds as a class, the resolution of certain disputed statutory interpretation issues that may impact the size of the putative class and (c) whether or not the plaintiff is entitled to statutory damages. No assurance can be given that these issues will be resolved in the Company's favor or that the Company will be successful in its defense on the merits or otherwise. If the case were to proceed as a class action and the Company were to be unsuccessful in its defense on the merits, the ultimate resolution of the case could have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Other than as noted above, we are not currently a party to any material legal proceedings other than claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business. All such matters are subject to uncertainties, and outcomes may not be predictable. Consequently, the ultimate aggregate amounts of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters as of February 3, 2018 are not estimable. However, while such matters could affect our consolidated operating results when resolved in future periods, management believes that upon final disposition, any monetary liability or financial impact to us would not be material to our annual consolidated financial statements.

Not applicable.

PART II

Our Common Stock trades on the NYSE under the symbol "CHS". On February 26, 2018 , the last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the NYSE was $9.09 per share. The number of holders of record of common stock on February 26, 2018 was 1,138 .

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the range of high and low sale prices for the Common Stock, as reported on the NYSE:

In fiscal 2017 , we declared four quarterly dividends of $0.0825 per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $0.33 per share. In fiscal 2016 , we declared four quarterly dividends of $0.08 per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $0.32 per share.

On February 21, 2018, we announced that our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.085 per share on our common stock. The dividend will be payable on April 2, 2018 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 19, 2018.

In fiscal 2015, we executed accelerated share repurchase agreements (the "ASR Agreements") and purchased $250 million of the Company's common stock under our $300 million share repurchase authorization announced in December 2013. In November 2015, we announced a new $300 million share repurchase authorization for the Company's common stock and canceled the remainder of the December 2013 authorization, which had $40 million remaining. In fiscal 2016 , we repurchased 8.1 million shares of the Company's common stock at approximately $96.4 million. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017 , we repurchased 0.2 million shares of the Company's common stock, for a total fiscal 2017 repurchase of 2.7 million shares at approximately $27.4 million . There was approximately $136.2 million remaining under the program at the end of fiscal 2017 . The repurchase program has no specific termination date and will expire when we have repurchased all securities authorized for repurchase thereunder, unless terminated earlier by our Board of Directors.

In fiscal 2017 , we repurchased 516,092 restricted shares in connection with employee tax withholding obligations under employee compensation plans, of which 78,562 were repurchased in the fourth quarter and are included in the following chart (amounts in thousands except share and per share amounts):

Five Year Performance Graph

The following graph compares the cumulative total return on our common stock with the cumulative total return of the companies in the Standard & Poor's ("S&P") 500 Index and the Standard & Poor's 500 Apparel Retail Index. Cumulative total return for each of the periods shown in the Performance Graph is measured assuming an initial investment of $100 on February 2, 2013 and the reinvestment of dividends.

Selected Financial Data at the dates and for the periods indicated should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto referenced in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Amounts in the following tables are in thousands, except per share data, and number of stores data.

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The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. References herein to "Notes" refer to the Notes to our consolidated financial statements. The periods presented had fifty-two weeks, except for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2018 ("fiscal 2017"), which consisted of fifty-three weeks.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

We are a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women's private branded, sophisticated, casual-to-dressy apparel, intimates and complementary accessories, operating under the Chico's, White House Black Market ("WHBM") and Soma brand names in the United States , Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. Our distinct lifestyle brands serve the needs of fashion-savvy women 35 years and older. We earn revenues and generate cash through the sale of merchandise in our domestic and international retail stores, our various e-commerce websites and our call center, which takes orders for all of our brands, and through an unaffiliated franchise partner in Mexico.

We utilize an integrated, omni-channel approach to managing our business. We want our customers to experience our brands holistically and to view the various retail channels we operate as a single, integrated experience rather than as separate sales channels operating independently. This approach allows our customers to browse, purchase, return or exchange our merchandise through whatever sales channel and at whatever time is most convenient. As a result, we track total sales and comparable sales on a combined basis.

Income from Operations and Select Charges

The following table depicts income from operations and select charges for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :

Earnings per diluted share for fiscal 2017 was $0.79 compared to $0.69 in fiscal 2016 . The change in earnings per share primarily reflects the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("the Tax Act") as well as the benefit of the fifty-third week, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria (collectively, the "Hurricanes") as detailed below.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Fifty-Third Week and Hurricane Impact on Financial Results

Results for fiscal 2017 include the favorable impact of the Tax Act of approximately $10 million after-tax as well as the benefit of the fifty-third week of approximately $4 million after-tax, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of the Hurricanes recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 of approximately $5 million after-tax.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Sales

The following table depicts net sales by Chico's, WHBM, Soma and Boston Proper in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :

1 The Company exited Boston Proper in fiscal 2015.

For fiscal 2017 , net sales were $2.3 billion compared to $2.5 billion in fiscal 2016 . This decrease of 7.8% primarily reflects a comparable sales decline of 7.7% as well as a 2.7% net decrease in selling square footage in 2017 , partially offset by the $29 million benefit of the fifty-third week. The comparable sales decline consisted of lower average dollar sale and a decline in transaction count. Comparable sales is defined as sales from stores open for the preceding twelve months, including stores that have been expanded, remodeled or relocated within the same general market and includes online and catalog sales. The comparable sales calculation excludes the negative impact of stores closed four or more days, International and Boston Proper and sales attributable to the fifty-third week.

For fiscal 2016, net sales were $2.5 billion compared to $2.7 billion in fiscal 2015. This decrease of 6.9% included $87.0 million related to Boston Proper in fiscal 2015. When excluding Boston Proper from fiscal 2015, net sales decreased 3.8%, primarily reflecting a decline in comparable sales of 3.7%, comprised of reduced transaction count and lower average dollar sale.

The following table depicts comparable sales percentages for Chico's, WHBM and Soma for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :

1 The 53 rd week is excluded from comparable sales calculations.

Cost of Goods Sold/Gross Margin

The following table depicts cost of goods sold and gross margin in dollars and gross margin as a percentage of net sales for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :

For fiscal 2017 , gross margin was $865 million , or 37.9% , compared to $947 million , or 38.2% , in fiscal 2016 . This 30 basis point decrease from fiscal 2016 primarily reflects a deleverage of occupancy costs as a percent of sales, partially offset by an improvement in merchandise margin and a decrease in incentive compensation.

For fiscal 2016, gross margin was $947 million, or 38.2%, compared to $1,027 million, or 38.6%, in fiscal 2015. When excluding Boston Proper from fiscal 2015, gross margin decreased 60 basis points in fiscal 2016 compared to gross margin of $1,000 million, or 38.8%, in fiscal 2015. This 60 basis point decrease from the fiscal 2015 adjusted gross margin rate primarily reflects deleverage of occupancy costs and incentive compensation, partially offset by an improvement in merchandise margin.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

The following table depicts selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A"), which includes store and direct operating expenses, marketing expenses and NSSC expenses, in dollars and as a percentage of net sales for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :

For fiscal 2017 , SG&A were $720 million , or 31.5% , compared to $775 million , or 31.2% , in fiscal 2016 . This $56 million decrease, or 7.2% decline, primarily reflects a reduction in store-related costs and marketing spend, partially offset by the impact of the fifty-third week.

For fiscal 2016, SG&A were $775 million, or 31.2%, compared to $879 million, or 33.0%, in fiscal 2015. When excluding Boston Proper from fiscal 2015, SG&A decreased $56 million, or 110 basis points, compared to $831 million, or 32.3%, in fiscal 2015. This decrease is primarily due to a reduction in unproductive marketing spend and improvements in store labor productivity, partially offset by an increase in incentive compensation.

Goodwill and Intangible Impairment Charges

In fiscal 2015, primarily based on declining market indications of value, the Company determined that certain Boston Proper intangibles were impaired and recorded $112.5 million in pre-tax, non-cash intangible impairment charges. The $112.5 million Boston Proper impairment charges included $48.9 million related to goodwill, $39.4 million related to the trade name and $24.2 million related to customer relationship intangible assets. The fiscal 2015 after-tax impact of the Boston Proper impairment charges totaled $88.4 million, or $0.63 per diluted share. The remaining value of the Boston Proper intangible assets was included in the sale of the assets and liabilities of the Boston Proper business in January 2016.

Restructuring and Strategic Charges

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we initiated a restructuring program, including the acceleration of domestic store closures and an organizational realignment, to ensure that resources align with long-term growth initiatives, including omni-channel. Restructuring and strategic charges for fiscal 2015 were $49 million , primarily consisting of $22 million in non-cash property and equipment impairment charges, $10 million in lease termination charges, $8 million in continuing employee-related costs and $7 million in severance charges and termination benefits. The fiscal 2015 after-tax impact of the restructuring and other charges totaled $30 million , or $0.21 per diluted share. Restructuring and strategic charges for fiscal 2016 were $31 million , primarily consisting of $12 million in outside services, $9 million in severance costs and $6 million in proxy solicitation costs. The fiscal 2016 after-tax impact of the restructuring and other charges totaled $19 million , or $0.15 per diluted share. In fiscal 2016 , we substantially completed our restructuring program. As of the end of fiscal 2017, we have closed a majority of the stores identified for closure in connection with our restructuring and strategic activities and did not incur any material additional expenses related to lease terminations or restructuring and strategic charges.

Provision for Income Taxes

Our effective tax rate was 29.7% , 34.2% and 113.3% , for fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The fiscal 2017 effective tax rate reflects an approximate $10 million benefit related to the Tax Act, partially offset by the recognition of the tax impact of deficiencies resulting from our adoption of the new accounting guidance related to employee share-based payment transactions. The fiscal 2016 and 2015 effective tax rates reflect the impact of the disposition of Boston Proper's stock and goodwill impairment charges, partially offset by an outside basis difference realized upon the sale and subsequent liquidation of the Boston Proper business. Excluding the tax impacts of the Tax Act, the Boston Proper stock disposition, goodwill impairment charges, outside basis difference and subsequent liquidation, the fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 effective tax rates would have been 36.4%, 37.2% and 36.6%, respectively.

Net Income and Earnings Per Diluted Share

Net income for fiscal 2017 was $101 million , or $0.79 per diluted share, compared to net income for fiscal 2016 of $91 million , or $0.69 per diluted share. The change in earnings per share primarily reflects the increase in fiscal 2017 net income. Fiscal 2017 net income includes the favorable impact of the Tax Act of approximately $10 million after-tax and the benefit of the fifty-third week of approximately $4 million after-tax, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of the Hurricanes of approximately $5 million after-tax.

Net income for fiscal 2016 was $91 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, compared to net income for fiscal 2015 of $2 million, or $0.01 per diluted share. The change in earnings per share reflects the increase in fiscal 2016 net income and the impact of share repurchases. Fiscal 2016 results included the impact of restructuring and strategic charges primarily related to outside services, severance costs and proxy solicitation costs of $19 million after-tax, or $0.15 per diluted share, partially offset by a $0.03 tax benefit related to the disposition of the Boston Proper DTC business.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

We believe that our existing cash and marketable securities balances, cash generated from operations, available credit facilities and potential future borrowings will be sufficient to fund capital expenditures, working capital needs, dividend payments, potential share repurchases, commitments and other liquidity requirements associated with our operations for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, while it is our intention to repurchase our stock and pay a quarterly cash dividend in the future, any determination to repurchase additional shares of our stock or pay future dividends will be made by the Board of Directors and will depend on our stock price, future earnings, financial condition and other factors considered by the Board.

Our ongoing capital requirements will continue to be primarily for enhancing and expanding our omni-channel capabilities, including expanded, relocated and remodeled stores; and information technology.

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2017 was $167 million , a decrease of approximately $64 million from fiscal 2016 . This decrease primarily results from the settlement of prior year accruals for outside services and severance, the timing of tax payments and the impact of a decrease in the incentive compensation accrual, partially offset by the timing of vendor payments.

Net cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2016 was $231 million, an increase of approximately $34 million from fiscal 2015. This increase primarily reflected the change in working capital and an increase in net income compared to prior year when adjusted for non-cash impairment charges and the deferred tax benefit related to the exit of Boston Proper. The change in working capital is primarily due to a decrease in income tax receivable.

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2017 was $58 million compared to $32 million for fiscal 2016 . The change in net cash used in investing activities primarily reflects a $10 million net increase in marketable securities related to the investment of cash from operations in fiscal 2017 and the impact of $16 million in proceeds from the sale of land in fiscal 2016 .

Net cash used in investing activities for fiscal 2016 was $32 million compared to $0.5 million provided by investing activities for fiscal 2015. The fiscal 2016 results reflect net purchases of property and equipment totaling $48 million, offset by proceeds from the sale of land of $16 million. Fiscal 2015 results included net purchases of property and equipment totaling $85 million, offset by a $76 million net decrease in marketable securities related to share repurchases and proceeds from the sale of Boston Proper.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities for fiscal 2017 was $91 million compared to $147 million in fiscal 2016 . The decrease in net cash used in financing activities primarily reflects a $69 million decline in share repurchases in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 , partially offset by higher payments on borrowings under our Credit Agreement in fiscal 2017 . In fiscal 2017 , we paid four cash dividends at $0.0825 per share on our common stock, totaling $ 43 million , and received approximately $2 million in proceeds from issuing approximately 2 million shares related to employee stock ownership plans and stock option exercises.

Net cash used in financing activities for fiscal 2016 was $147 million compared to $240 million in fiscal 2015. The fiscal 2016 decrease in net cash used in financing activities primarily reflects a decrease of $201 million in share repurchases in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015, partially offset by net borrowings of $93 million under our Credit Agreement in fiscal 2015. In fiscal 2016, we paid four cash dividends at $0.08 per share on our common stock, totaling $42 million and received $4 million in proceeds from issuing approximately 2 million shares related to employee stock ownership plans and stock option exercises.

Store and Franchise Activity

During fiscal 2017 , we had 41 net store closures, consisting of 15 Chico's stores, 21 WHBM stores and 5 Soma stores. In fiscal 2018 , we anticipate approximately 50 net store closures. We continuously evaluate the appropriate new store growth rate and closures in light of economic conditions and may adjust the growth rate and closures as conditions require or as opportunities arise. As of February 3, 2018 , the Company's franchise operations consisted of 94 retail locations in Mexico.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations at February 3, 2018 :

As of February 3, 2018 , our contractual obligations consisted of: 1) amounts outstanding under operating leases, 2) open purchase orders for inventory and other operating expenses, in the normal course of business, 3) contractual commitments for fiscal 2018 capital expenditures and 4) long-term debt obligations.

Until formal resolutions are reached between us and the relevant taxing authorities, we are unable to estimate a final determination related to our uncertain tax positions and therefore, we have excluded the uncertain tax positions, totaling approximately $2 million at February 3, 2018 from the above table.

Credit Facility

On May 4, 2015, we entered into a credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Administrative Agent, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent and other lenders. Our obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by certain of our material U.S. subsidiaries. The Credit Agreement provides for a term loan commitment in the amount of $100.0 million, of which $100.0 million was drawn at closing, and matures on May 4, 2020. The Credit Agreement also provides for a $100.0 million revolving credit facility, of which $24.0 million was drawn at closing and was repaid in the second quarter of 2015. The Credit Agreement has borrowing options which accrue interest by reference, at our election, at either an adjusted eurodollar rate tied to LIBOR or an Alternate Base Rate plus an interest rate margin, as defined in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement also requires us to maintain certain maximum leverage ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of no more than 3.50 to 1.00 until July 31, 2018, and 3.25 to 1.00 after July 31, 2018, and a minimum fixed coverage charge of not less than 1.20 to 1.00. As of February 3, 2018 , the Company was in compliance with all financial covenant requirements of the Credit Agreement. For a more detailed description of the interest rate options and the financial covenants, please see Note 8.

On May 4, 2015, in connection with our entry into the Credit Agreement, we repaid and terminated, with no prepayment penalties, the $124.0 million outstanding obligation under our 2011 revolving credit facility. We used the proceeds from the initial draw of the term loan and revolving credit facility of the Credit Agreement to repay such obligations.

As of February 3, 2018 , $68.6 million in net borrowings under the term loan were outstanding under the Credit Agreement, and are reflected as $15.0 million in current debt and $53.6 million in long-term debt in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

At February 3, 2018 and January 28, 2017 , we did not have any relationship with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or for other contractually narrow or limited purposes.

Critical Accounting Policies

The discussion and analysis of our consolidated financial condition and results of operations are based upon the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management has discussed the development and selection of these critical accounting policies and estimates with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, and believes the following assumptions and estimates are significant to reporting our consolidated results of operations and financial position.

Inventory Valuation and Shrinkage

We identify potentially excess and slow-moving inventories by evaluating inventory aging, turn rates and inventory levels in conjunction with our overall sales trend. Further, inventory realization exposure is identified through analysis of gross margins and markdowns in combination with changes in current business trends. We record excess and slow-moving inventories at net realizable value and may liquidate certain slow-moving inventory through third parties. Historically, the variation of those estimates to actual results is immaterial and material variation is not expected in the future.

We estimate our expected shrinkage of inventories between our physical inventory counts by using average store shrinkage experience rates, which are updated on a regular basis. Historically, the variation of those estimates to actual results is immaterial and material variation is not expected in the future.    

Revenue Recognition

Retail sales by our stores are recorded at the point of sale and are net of estimated customer returns, sales discounts under rewards programs and company issued coupons, promotional discounts and employee discounts. For sales from our websites and catalogs, revenue is recognized at the time we estimate the customer receives the product, which is typically within a few days of shipment. Amounts related to shipping and handling costs billed to customers are recorded in net sales and the related shipping and handling costs are recorded in cost of goods sold in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Amounts paid by customers to cover shipping and handling costs are immaterial.

We sell gift cards in stores, on our e-commerce website and through third parties. Our gift cards do not have expiration dates. We account for gift cards by recognizing a liability at the time the gift card is sold. The liability is relieved and revenue is recognized for gift cards upon redemption. In addition, we recognize revenue for the amount of gift cards expected to go unredeemed (commonly referred to as gift card breakage) under the redemption recognition method. This method records gift card breakage as revenue on a proportional basis over the redemption period based on our historical gift card breakage rate. We determine the gift card breakage rate based on our historical redemption patterns. We recognize revenue on the remaining unredeemed gift cards based on determining that the likelihood of the gift card being redeemed is remote and that there is no legal obligation to remit the unredeemed gift cards to relevant jurisdictions.

Soma offers a points based loyalty program in which customers earn points based on purchases. Attaining specified loyalty point levels results in the issuance of reward coupons to discount future purchases. As program members accumulate points, we accrue the estimated future liability, adjusted for expected redemption rates and expirations. The liability is relieved and revenue is recognized for loyalty point reward coupons upon redemption. In addition, we recognize revenue on unredeemed points when it can be determined that the likelihood of the point being redeemed is remote and there is no legal obligation to remit the point value. We determined the loyalty point breakage rate based on historical and redemption patterns.

As part of the normal sales cycle, we receive customer merchandise returns related to store, website and catalog sales. To account for the financial impact of potential customer merchandise returns, we estimate future returns on previously sold merchandise. Reductions in sales and gross margin are recorded for estimated merchandise returns based on return history, current sales levels and projected future return levels.

Our policy towards taxes assessed by a government authority directly imposed on revenue producing transactions between a seller and a customer is, and has been, to exclude all such taxes from revenue.

Evaluation of Long-Lived Assets, Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Long-lived assets are reviewed periodically for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset are less than its carrying amount, an asset is determined to be impaired, and a loss is recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value. The fair value of an asset is estimated using estimated future cash flows of the asset discounted by a rate commensurate with the risk involved with such asset while incorporating marketplace assumptions. The estimate of future cash flows requires management to make certain assumptions and to apply judgment, including forecasting future sales and the useful lives of the assets. We exercise our best judgment based on the most current facts and circumstances surrounding our business when applying these impairment rules. We establish our assumptions and arrive at the estimates used in these calculations based upon our historical experience, knowledge of the retail industry and by incorporating third-party data, which we believe results in a reasonably accurate approximation of fair value. Nevertheless, changes in the assumptions used could have an impact on our assessment of recoverability.

We review our goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis, or when circumstances indicate its carrying value may not be recoverable. We evaluate the appropriateness of performing a qualitative assessment, on a reporting unit level, based on current circumstances. If the results of the qualitative assessment indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the two-step impairment test will be performed. If we conclude that this is not the case, then the two-step impairment test will not be required. We may elect to skip the qualitative assessment and perform the two-step impairment test. The first step of the impairment test compares the fair value of our reporting units with their carrying amounts, including goodwill. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, then the second step of the impairment test is performed to measure the amount of any impairment loss. Fair value is determined based on both an income approach and market approach. The income approach is based on estimated future cash flows, discounted at a rate that approximates the cost of capital of a market participant, while the market approach is based on sales and EBITDA multiples of similar companies and/or transactions, or other available indications of value.

We review our other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis, or when circumstances indicate its carrying value may not be recoverable. We evaluate the appropriateness of performing a qualitative assessment based on current circumstances. If the results of the qualitative assessment indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we calculate the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets using a discounted cash flow method, based on the relief from royalty concept.

Operating Leases

Rent expense under store operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. Landlord incentives, "rent-free" periods, rent escalation clauses and other rental expenses are also amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases, including the construction period. This is generally 60–90 days prior to the store opening date, when we generally begin improvements in preparation for our intended use. Tenant improvement allowances are recorded as a deferred lease credit within deferred liabilities and amortized as a reduction of rent expense over the term of the lease.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with authoritative guidance, which requires the use of the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Inherent in the measurement of deferred balances are certain judgments and interpretations of existing tax law and published guidance as applicable to our operations. Deferred tax assets are reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance to the extent future realization of those tax benefits are uncertain. Our effective tax rate considers management's judgment of expected tax liabilities within the various taxing jurisdictions in which we are subject to tax.

We record amounts for uncertain tax positions that management believes are supportable, but are potentially subject to successful challenge by the applicable taxing authority. Consequently, changes in our assumptions and judgments could affect amounts recognized related to income tax uncertainties and may affect our consolidated results of operations or financial position. We believe our assumptions for estimates continue to be reasonable, although actual results may have a positive or negative material impact on the balances of such tax positions. Historically, the variation of estimates to actual results is immaterial and material variation is not expected in the future.

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

Stock-based compensation expense for all awards is based on the grant date fair value of the award, net of estimated forfeitures, and is recognized over the requisite service period of the awards. Compensation expense for restricted stock awards and stock options with a service condition is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Compensation expense for performance-based awards with a service condition is recognized ratably for each vesting tranche based on our estimate of the level and likelihood of meeting certain Company-specific performance goals. The calculation of stock-based compensation expense involves estimates that require management's judgment. We have elected to estimate the expected forfeiture rate for all stock-based awards, and only recognize expense for those shares expected to vest. In determining the portion of the stock-based payment award that is ultimately expected to be earned, we derive forfeiture rates based on historical data. In accordance with the authoritative guidance, we revise our forfeiture rates, when necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those originally estimated. As a result, in the event that a grant's actual forfeiture rate is materially different from its estimate at the completion of the vesting period, the stock-based compensation expense could be significantly different from what we recorded in current and prior periods.

For performance-based awards, estimates include the probable number of shares that will ultimately be issued based on the likelihood of meeting the respective performance condition. We estimate the probable vesting based on current financial performance forecasts for the relevant performance metrics. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock-based payment awards represent management's best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management's judgment.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In October 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2016-16, Accounting for Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Asset Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory. ASU 2016-16 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2016-16 requires companies to recognize the income tax effects of intercompany sales or transfers of other assets in the income statement as income tax expense (benefit) in the period the sale or transfer occurs. Additionally, companies would evaluate whether the tax effects of the intercompany sales of transfers of non-inventory assets should be included in their estimates of annual effective tax rates by using today's interim guidance on income tax accounting. ASU 2016-16 will require modified retrospective transition with a cumulative catch-up adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption, which we will implement in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. At February 3, 2018 , the Company had $5.7 million in assets related to the transfer of intra–entity asset transfers.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which replaces the existing guidance in Accounting Standard Codification 840, Leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018 and should be applied on a modified retrospective basis. ASU 2016-02 requires a dual approach for lessee accounting under which a lessee would account for leases as finance leases or operating leases. Both finance leases and operating leases will result in the lessee recognizing a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease liability. For finance leases, the lessee would recognize interest expense and amortization of the right-of-use asset and for operating leases, the lessee would recognize straight-line total rent expense. Upon adoption of the standard in fiscal 2019, we expect to record material right–of– use assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet approximating the present value of future lease payments.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities , under which entities will no longer be able to recognize unrealized holding gains and losses on equity securities they classify as available-for-sale in other comprehensive income but instead recognize the change in fair value in net income. The standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and should be applied prospectively with a cumulative adjustment to opening retained earnings. We do not anticipate adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The update outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral of the effective date, to make it effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The standard allows for either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective transition method. The FASB has issued subsequent ASUs related to ASU No. 2014-09, which detail amendments to the ASU, implementation considerations, narrow-scope improvements and practical expedients. Through our evaluation of the impact of this ASU, we have identified certain changes that are expected to be made to our accounting policies, practices, systems and controls including: revenue related to our online sales will be recognized at the shipping point rather than upon receipt by the customer; the timing of our recognition of advertising expenses, whereby certain expenses that are currently amortized over their expected period of future benefit will be expensed the first time the advertisement appears; and presentation of estimated merchandise returns as both an asset, equal to the inventory value net of processing costs, and a corresponding return liability, compared to the current practice of recording an estimated net return liability. We plan to adopt this ASU under the modified retrospective approach beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 with a cumulative adjustment to opening retained earnings as opposed to retrospectively adjusting prior periods. Based on our progress to date, we do not anticipate adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

Forward-Looking Statements

This Form 10-K may contain certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which reflect our current views with respect to certain events that could have an effect on our future financial performance, including but without limitation, statements regarding our plans, objectives, and the future success of our store concepts and our business initiatives. These statements may address items such as future sales and sales initiatives, gross margin expectations, SG&A expectations, including expected savings, operating margin expectations, earnings per share expectations, planned store openings, closings and expansions, proposed business ventures, new channels of sales or distribution, expected impact of ongoing litigation, future stock repurchase plans, future plans to pay dividends, future comparable sales, future product sourcing plans, future inventory levels, planned marketing expenditures, planned capital expenditures and future cash needs.

These statements relate to expectations concerning matters that are not historical fact and may include the words or phrases such as "will," "should," "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "intends," "estimates," "approximately," "our planning assumptions," "future outlook" and similar expressions. Except for historical information, matters discussed in this Form 10-K are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based largely on information currently available to our management and on our current expectations, assumptions, plans, estimates, judgments and projections about our business and our industry, and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those currently anticipated. Although we believe our expectations are based on reasonable estimates and assumptions, they are not guarantees of performance and there are a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors (many of which are outside our control) that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there is no assurance that our expectations will, in fact, occur or that our estimates or assumptions will be correct, and we caution investors and all others not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those described in Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the following:

The financial strength of retailing in particular and the economy in general; the extent of financial difficulties or economic uncertainty that may be experienced by customers; our ability to secure and maintain customer acceptance of styles and in-store and online concepts; the ability to effectively manage and maintain an appropriate level of inventory; the extent and nature of competition in the markets in which we operate; the ability to remain competitive with customer shipping terms and costs pertaining to product deliveries and returns; the extent of the market demand and overall level of spending for women's private branded clothing and related accessories; the effectiveness of our brand awareness and marketing programs; the ability to coordinate product development with buying and planning; the quality and timeliness of merchandise received from suppliers; the ability to efficiently, timely and successfully manage our business in the face of significant economic, labor, political or other shifts in the countries from which our merchandise is supplied; the changes in the costs of manufacturing, raw materials, transportation, distribution, labor and advertising; the availability of quality store sites; our ability to manage our store fleet and the risk that our investments in merchandise or marketing initiatives may not deliver the results we anticipate; our ability to successfully navigate the increasing use of on-line retailers for fashion purchases and the pressure that puts on traffic and transactions in our physical stores; the ability to operate our own retail websites in a manner that produces profitable sales; the ability to successfully identify and implement additional sales and distribution channels; the ability to successfully execute our business strategies and to achieve the expected results from them; the continuing performance, implementation and integration of management information systems; the impact of any systems failures, cyber security or other data or security breaches, including any security breaches that result in theft, transfer, or unauthorized disclosure of customer, employee, or company information or our compliance with information security and privacy laws and regulations in the event of such an incident; the ability to hire, train, motivate and retain qualified sales associates, managerial employees and other employees; the successful integration of the new members of our senior management team; the ability to respond effectively to actions of activist shareholders and others; the ability to utilize our distribution center and other support facilities in an efficient and effective manner; the ability to secure and protect trademarks and other intellectual property rights and to protect our reputation and brand images; and the risk that natural disasters, public health crises, political uprisings, uncertainty or unrest, or other catastrophic events could adversely affect our operations and financial results; the impact of unanticipated changes in legal, regulatory or tax laws; the potential risks and uncertainties that are related to our reliance on sourcing from foreign suppliers, including the impact of changes in tariffs, taxes or other import regulations; and changes in governmental policies in or towards foreign countries; currency exchange rates and other similar factors.

All forward-looking statements that are made or attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary notice. The forward-looking statements included herein are only made as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The market risk of our financial instruments as of February 3, 2018 has not significantly changed since January 28, 2017 . We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on any future indebtedness and our marketable securities and from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Our primary exposure to interest rate risk relates in part to our revolving line of credit with our bank. On May 4, 2015, we entered into a new credit agreement and repaid, with no prepayment penalties, the then outstanding obligation under our 2011 credit facility. The new agreement, which matures on May 4, 2020, has borrowing options which accrue interest by reference, at our election, at either an adjusted eurodollar rate tied to LIBOR or an Alternate Base Rate plus an interest rate margin, as defined in the Credit Agreement. As of February 3, 2018 , $68.6 million in net borrowings under the term loan were outstanding under the Credit Agreement, and are reflected as $15.0 million in current debt and $53.6 million in long-term debt in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. An increase or decrease in market interest rates of 100 basis points would not have a material effect on annual interest expense. This hypothetical analysis may differ from the actual experience or market developments that could result in a change in interest rates under the Credit Agreement. 

Our investment portfolio is maintained in accordance with our investment policy which identifies allowable investments, specifies credit quality standards and limits the credit exposure of any single issuer. Our investment portfolio consists of cash equivalents and marketable securities including corporate bonds, municipal bonds, and U.S. government and agency securities. The marketable securities portfolio as of February 3, 2018 , consisted of $34.0 million of securities with maturity dates within one year or less and $26.1 million with maturity dates over one year and less than or equal to two years. We consider all securities available-for-sale, including those with maturity dates beyond 12 months, and therefore classify these securities as short-term investments within current assets on the consolidated balance sheets as they are available to support current operational liquidity needs. As of February 3, 2018 , an increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would not have a material effect on the fair value of our marketable securities portfolio.

Report of Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Chico's FAS, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Chico's FAS, Inc. and subsidiaries as of February 3, 2018 and January 28, 2017 , and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 3, 2018 , and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at February 3, 2018 and January 28, 2017 , and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 3, 2018 , in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB"), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2018 , based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 13, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.

Tampa, Florida

March 13, 2018

CHICO'S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

CHICO'S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

CHICO'S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

CHICO'S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(In thousands)