v2.4.0.6
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
9 Months Ended
Oct. 01, 2011
Nov. 03, 2011
Jul. 02, 2010
Entity Registrant Name CARTERS INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0001060822    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Public Float     $ 1,557,312,424
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   58,594,661  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3    
Document Type 10-Q    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Period End Date Oct. 01, 2011