v3.8.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2017
Oct. 20, 2017
Document Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name CARTERS INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0001060822  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-30  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2017  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2017  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   47,323,325