v3.3.1.900
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Jan. 02, 2016
Feb. 19, 2016
Jul. 04, 2015
Document Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name CARTERS INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0001060822    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --01-02    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Jan. 02, 2016    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2015    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   51,746,604  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 5,563,932,389