v2.4.0.8
Document and Entity Information (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Jan. 03, 2015
Feb. 20, 2015
Jun. 28, 2014
Document Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name CARTERS INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0001060822    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --01-03    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Jan. 03, 2015    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2014    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   52,804,427  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 3,623,223,632