v2.4.0.6
Document And Entity Information
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012
Apr. 27, 2012
Document Information [Table]    
Entity Registrant Name CARTERS INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0001060822  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-29  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   58,938,891
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2012