Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred lease incentives Incentive from Lessor Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Japan Retail Operations Japan Retail Operations [Member] Japan Retail Operations [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Plans Pension Plan [Member] Postretirement Benefit Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Pension/post-retirement liability adjustment, beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Pension/post-retirement liability adjustment, current year change Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Pension/post-retirement liability adjustment, ending balance Cumulative translation adjustment, beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Cumulative translation adjustment, current year change Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Cumulative translation adjustment, ending balance Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), ending balance Pension/post-retirement liability adjustments, tax benefit Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings [Member] Building [Member] Retail Store Fixtures, Equipment, and Computers [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Computer Software [Member] Software Development [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, useful life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Leases [Abstract] LEASE COMMITMENTS Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Cooperative advertising arrangements, fair value Cooperative advertising arrangements, fair value The fair value as of the balance sheet date of cooperative advertising arrangements included in sales, general and administrative expense. Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Trade receivables [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Royalties receivable [Member] Royalties receivable [Member] Amount of money due from a third parties for use of the Company's intangible assets. Tenant allowances and other receivables [Member] Tenant allowances and other receivables [Member] Amounts due from property owners for tenant allowance and other receivables due from third parties. Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Sales returns reserve [Member] Allowance for Sales Returns [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Geographic Distribution, Foreign [Member] Geographic Distribution, Foreign [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, gross Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Less: reserves Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Accounts Receivable [Abstract] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Gross, Allowance, and Net [Abstract] Customer concentration risk, gross accounts receivable Concentration Risk, Percentage Number of largest wholesale customers being discussed Number of largest wholesale and mass channel customers discussed The number of largest wholesale customers being discussed. Maximum disclosure percentage for gross accounts receivable Maximum disclosure percentage gross accounts receivable The maximum customer concentration of sales or accounts receivable being separately disclosed, as of the balance sheet date. Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] UNITED STATES UNITED STATES Canada [Member] CANADA Brands [Axis] Brands [Axis] The company's tradenames. Brands [Domain] Brands [Domain] The company's tradenames. Carter's [Member] Carters [Member] The company's Carters tradename. OshKosh [Member] OshKosh [Member] The company's OshKosh tradename. Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of Stores Number of Stores Number of OshKosh locations Number of stores2 Represents the number of stores. THE COMPANY Nature of Operations [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Parent [Member] Parent Company [Member] Subsidiary Issuer [Member] Subsidiary Issuer [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantors Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidating Adjustments [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Intercompany investing activity Proceeds From (Payments For) Intercompany Investing Activities Proceeds From (Payments For) Intercompany Investing Activities Receipts from collection of intercompany loan Receipts from Intercompany Loan Receipts from Intercompany Loan Payment of Intercompany Loan Payment of Intercompany Loan Payment of Intercompany Loan Acquisition of tradenames Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from senior notes Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Intercompany financing activity Proceeds From (Payments For) Intercompany Financing Activities Proceeds From (Payments For) Intercompany Financing Activities Proceeds from Intercompany Loan Proceeds from Intercompany Loan Proceeds from Intercompany Loan Repayment of intercompany loan Payment of Intercompany Borrowings Payment of Intercompany Borrowings Proceeds From Intercompany Loans Proceeds From Intercompany Loans Proceeds From Intercompany Loans Borrowings under secured revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Payments on secured revolving credit facility Payments on Secured Revolving Credit Facility Payments on Secured Revolving Credit Facility Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payment of contingent consideration Payment Of Contingent Consideration Payment Of Contingent Consideration Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Withholdings of taxes from vesting of restricted stock Payments for Repurchase of Other Equity Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of fiscal year Cash and cash equivalents, end of fiscal year Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Hogansville Distribution Facility [Member] Hogansville Distribution Facility [Member] Hogansville Distribution Facility [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] FACILITY CLOSURE Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Fixtures, Equipment, and Computers [Member] Land, Buildings, and Improvements [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Marketing Fixtures [Member] Marketing Fixtures [Member] Capitalized costs of marketing fixtures. Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant, and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Depreciation and amortization Cost of Goods Sold, Depreciation and Amortization Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Bonnie Togs [Member] Bonnie Togs [Member] Bonnie Togs. Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Maximum consideration paid for business acquired Business Acquisition Maximum Total Consideration Maximum amount of consideration for a business acquisition. Cash paid at closing for business acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payment of contingent consideration Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Gain on mark to market of marketable securities Gain (Loss) on Investments Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Contingent consideration Contingent Consideration Asset Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of potential payments under the contingent consideration arrangement including cash and shares. Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance-based restricted stock awards to the CEO Performance-based Restricted Stock Awards to the CEO [Member] Performance-based restricted stock awarded to the CEO. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Restricted Stock Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Shares outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted-average grant-date fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted-average grant-date fair value outstanding (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant-date fair value outstanding (in dollars per share) Weighted-average expense recognition period (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Long Term Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Change in projected benefit obligation: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation at beginning of period Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Actuarial (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Plan participants' contribution Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Benefit obligation at end of period Change in plan assets: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at end of year STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Summary of recorded stock-based compensation cost Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Summary of stock option activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Assumptions used for grants and summary of stock options and restricted stock activity Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary of restricted stock award activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of issued shares of common stock to non-management board members Share-based Compensation Arrangements, Common Stock Issued [Table Text Block] Share-based Compensation Arrangements, Common Stock Issued [Table Text Block] Current tax provision: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current provision Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax provision (benefit): Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred provision (benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Percentage of total net sales International Sales, Percentage Of Total Net Sales International Sales, Percentage Of Total Net Sales Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock; par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock; shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock; issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock; outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, voting; par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, voting; shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock voting; shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock voting; shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Expected Volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Weighted average fair value of options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general, and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Royalty income Licenses Revenue Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest (Income) loss in subsidiaries Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Provision for income taxes Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent OTHER CURRENT AND LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] ACQUISITION OF BONNIE TOGS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Property, plant, and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible assets table Schedule Of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior notes Senior Notes [Member] Secured revolving credit facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Reconciliation of changes in the projected pension benefit obligation and plan assets Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] Components of post retirement benefit expense and pension expense Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of assumptions used in actuarial computations Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Expected benefit payments for defined benefit pension plans for the next ten fiscal years Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Fair value of the Company's pension plan assets by category Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of accumulated post retirement benefit obligation Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Postemployment Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Tax reserves applicable to the ongoing examination Tax Reserve Ongoing Examination Tax Reserve Ongoing Examination Income tax rate reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Statutory federal income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Impact of foreign operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Settlement of uncertain tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Percent Total Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Accounts receivable reserves [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Accounts receivable reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Additions, charged to expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Charges to reserve Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Ending balance Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Wholesale [Member] Wholesale [Member] Wholesale segment. Retail [Member] Retail [Member] Retail segment. International [Member] International [Member] International segment. Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Net inventory Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Schedule of other current liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of other long-term liabilities Schedule of Other Long-Term Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Long-Term Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of restructuring reserve Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Total other comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Unrealized gain (loss) on OshKosh defined benefit plan, net of tax of ($470), $2,920, ($3,660) for the fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plans, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plans, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on Carter's post-retirement benefit obligation, net of (tax) or tax benefit of ($30), $91, ($210) for fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Postretirement Benefit Obligations, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Postretirement Benefit Obligations, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net income Post-retirement benefit plans Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Plan Assets by investment category [Axis] Plan Assets by investment category [Axis] Plan Assets by investment category Investment category type [Domain] Investment category type [Domain] Investment category type US Large-Cap blend [Member] US Large Cap Blend [Member] US large cap blend US Large-Cap growth [Member] US Large Cap growth [Member] US Large Cap growth US Mid-Cap growth [Member] US Mid Cap Growth [Member] US Mid Cap Growth [Member] US Small-Cap blend [Member] US Small Cap blend [Member] US Small Cap blend International blend [Member] International blend [Member] International blend Corporate Bonds [Member] Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Real estate [Member] Real Estate [Member] Fair value of plan assets Bond Funds [Member] Real Estate Investments [Member] Real Estate Investment [Member] International Equities [Member] International Equities [Member] International Equities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Effect of 0.25% increase on projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Point Twenty Five Percentage Point Increase on Projected Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Point Twenty Five Percentage Point Increase on Projected Benefit Obligation Effect of 0.25% decrease on projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Point Twenty Five Percentage Point Decrease on Projected Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Point Twenty Five Percentage Point Decrease on Projected Benefit Obligation Portfolio description, number of mutual funds or group annuity contracts Defined Benefit Plan, Portfolio Description, Number of Mutual Funds or Group Annuity Contracts Defined Benefit Plan, Portfolio Description, Number of Mutual Funds or Group Annuity Contracts Target allocation for plan assets in equity securities (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Expected long-term rate of return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Equity securities maximum investment in international equities (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum 2015 Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Benefit payments Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Expected contribution and benefit payment, five years subsequent to 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Schedule of Intercompany Foreign Currency Balances [Table Text Block] Schedule of Intercompany Foreign Currency Balances [Table Text Block] Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five 2020 and thereafter Credit facility, amount outstanding Long-term Line of Credit Long-term debt, fair value Long-term Debt, Fair Value VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Income before income taxes Basic net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividend declared per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividend paid per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Foreign currency contracts [Abstract] Foreign currency contracts [Abstract] Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] FISCAL YEAR Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION AND TRANSACTIONS Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] INVENTORIES Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] VALUATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBILE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] IMPAIRMENT OF OTHER LONG-LIVED ASSETS Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] DEFERRED DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] ACCOUNTING FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING FEES AND COSTS Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] ROYALTIES AND LICENSE FEES Revenue Recognition, Services, Royalty Fees [Policy Text Block] STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] INCOME TAXES Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] FACILITY CLOSURE AND OFFICE CONSOLIDATION Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities or Restructurings, Policy [Policy Text Block] LEASES AND DEFERRED RENT Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] SEASONALITY Seasonality Policy [Policy Text Block] Seasonality Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of tradenames Amortization of Tradenames Amortization of Tradenames Accretion of contingent consideration Accretion Expense Amortization of debt issuance costs Amortization of Financing Costs Non-cash stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Unrealized foreign currency exchange loss, net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Loss on disposal of property, plant, and equipment Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Deferred income taxes Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net cash used in investing activities Payments on Secured Revolving Credit Facility Net cash used in financing activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Service cost - benefits attributed to service during the period Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Total net periodic (benefit) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance (in shares) Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Exercise of stock options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Withholdings from vesting of restricted stock Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation Withholdings from vesting of restricted stock (in shares) Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation Restricted stock activity Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Restricted stock activity (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Issuance of common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Issuance of common stock (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Repurchases of common stock Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Repurchase of common stock (in shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Cash dividends declared and paid Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Comprehensive income Balance Balance (in shares) Unrecognized income tax benefits [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions based on fiscal year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions for prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Reductions for prior year tax settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Ending Balance Impact of recognized tax benefit on effective tax rate, if recognized Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Tax reserve for which statute of limitations is expected to expire Tax Reserve Statue Of Limitation Expected To Expire Tax reserve for which statute of limitations is expected to expire. Interest accrued for uncertain tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] H. W. Carter and Sons Tradenames [Member] Other Tradenames [Member] Other Tradenames [Member] Facility Closing Facility Closing [Member] Japan JAPAN Office Consolidation Office Consolidation [Member] Office Consolidation [Member] Percentage of total net sales Percentage Of Total Net Sales The percentage of net product revenue to total net revenue from the sale of goods for the reporting period. Operating income (loss) Operating income as percentage of segment net sales Operating income as percentage of segment net sales The percentage of segment's operating income to total net sales from the sale of goods as of period end. Corporate expenses Corporate Expenses Corporate expenses generally include expenses related to incentive compensation , stock-based compensation, executive management, severance and relocation, finance, building occupancy, information technology, certain legal fees, consulting, and audit fees during the reporting period. Charges associated with the revaluation of contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change In Amount Of Contingent Consideration Liability, Accretion Expense Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change In Amount Of Contingent Consideration Liability, Accretion Expense Office consolidation costs Amortization of H.W. Carter and Sons tradenames Amortization of Intangible Assets Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Carter's Goodwill [Member] Carters Goodwill [Member] Bonnie Togs Goodwill [Member] Bonnie Togs Goodwill [Member] Carter's Tradename [Member] Carters Trade Name [Member] The rights acquired through registration of a business name to gain or protect exclusive use thereof. Oshkosh Tradename [Member] Oshkosh Trade Name [Member] The rights acquired through registration of a business name to gain or protect exclusive use thereof. Other Tradenames [Member] Tradenames [Member] Trade Names [Member] Non-compete Agreements [Member] Noncompete Agreements [Member] Wholesale Segment [Member] Wholesale Segment [Member] Carter's wholesale segment. Retail Segment [Member] Retail Segment [Member] Carter's retail segment. International Segment [Member] International Segment [Member] International Segment. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Line Items] [Line Items] for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table] Tradenames acquired, cash consideration Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Weighted-average useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Weighted-average useful life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Goodwill, Gross amount Goodwill, Gross Goodwill Goodwill Indefinite intangible assets Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Finite intangible assets, Gross amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite intangible assets, Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite intangible assets, Net amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Tradenames and other intangible, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization of intangible assets Future amortization expense, 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Future amortization expense, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Future amortization expense, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Future amortization expense, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Future amortization expense, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Other, Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Carter's Watch the Wear and H.W Carter & Sons [Member] Carter's Watch the Wear and H.W Carter and Sons [Member] Carter's Watch the Wear and H.W Carter and Sons [Member] Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Useful Life Assets and liabilities measured at fair value table Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Significant unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements table Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Stock Options (Number of shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Outstanding, ending balance (in shares) Vested and expected to vest (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Exercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Stock Options (Weighted-average exercise price) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted- average exercise price per share beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expired (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted- average exercise price per share ending balance (in dollars per share) Weighted- average exercise price per share, Vested and Expected to Vest (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted- average exercise price per share, Exercisable (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average remaining contractual terms (years), Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average remaining contractual terms (years), Vested and Expected to Vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average remaining contractual terms (years), Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, Vested and Expected to Vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Beginning balance Payments made Accretion expense Foreign currency translation adjustment Business Combination Contingent Consideration Arrangements Change In Amount Of Contingent Consideration Liability Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment This element represents the amount of foreign currency translation recognized during the reporting period related to contingent the consideration. Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Ending balance Equity [Abstract] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] ASR Settlement [Member] ASR Settlement [Member] ASR Settlement [Member] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Shares repurchased under accelerated stock repurchase program Accelerated Share Repurchases, Shares Repurchased Accelerated Share Repurchases, Shares Repurchased Accelerated share repurchases, settlement (payment) or receipt Accelerated Share Repurchases, Settlement (Payment) or Receipt Schedule of segment information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Inventory, net, by segment Inventory, net, by segment [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances, which is attributed to the reportable segment. Consolidated Net Sales by Product Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Property, plant, and equipment, net, by geographic area Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] COMMON STOCK Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Unrealized gain (loss) on OshKosh defined benefit and postretirement plans, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Gross profit Operating income Basic net income per common share (in dollars per share) Diluted net income per common share (in dollars per share) Net deferred tax liability [Table Text Block] Net deferred tax liability [Table Text Block] A tabular disclosure of net deferred tax liability as classified on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] LONG-TERM DEBT Long-term Debt [Text Block] Time-based awards Time Based Awards [Member] Time Based Awards [Member] Performance-based Awards Performance Shares [Member] Stock awards [Member] Stock Awards [Member] Stock Awards [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Current net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Non-current net deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Undistributed earnings from subsidiary Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Total deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Accounts receivable allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Inventory Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory Accrued liabilities Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Equity-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Deferred employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Deferred rent Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Deferred Rent Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities Depreciation The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis of depreciation expense and the basis of depreciation expense computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Tradename and licensing agreements Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Minimum annual rental commitments under current operating leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Accrued bonuses and incentive compensation Accrued Bonuses, Current Accrued 401 (k) contributions Accrued 401 (k) Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for a plan that provides retirement benefits in return for services rendered, provides an individual account for each participant, and specifies how contributions to the individual's account are to be determined instead of specifying the amount of benefits the individual is to receive. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Components of accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Stock repurchase, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock repurchase, additional authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program Additional Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program Additional Authorized Amount Remaining capacity under authorization Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock repurchased Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock repurchased and retired Average price of repurchased and retired shares Treasury Stock Acquired Average Cost Per Shares The cumulative cost of shares repurchased divided by the cumulative number of shares repurchased. Cost of repurchased and retired shares Cumulative Stock Repurchased And Retired Value The cumulative value of stock that has been repurchased and retired as of the balance sheet date. SEGMENT INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving credit facility Interest paid in cash Interest Paid Income taxes paid in cash Income Taxes Paid, Net Property, plant and equipment additions Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Original debt amount Debt Conversion, Original Debt, Amount Converted debt amount Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Amount Secured revolving credit facility Debt Instrument, Face Amount Shipping and handling costs Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Shipping and handling revenue Shipping and Handling Revenue Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Rent expense under operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Operating Leases, 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Operating Leases, 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due International retail store average lease term Average Term Leases Average Term Leases Summary of changes in contingent consideration liability Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Basic number of common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock awards (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic net income per common share: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Income allocated to participating securities Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic Earnings allocated (not distributed) to participating securities under the two-class method to the extend that participating securities may share in earnings as if all of the earnings for the period had been distributed. Net income available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Diluted net income per common share: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract] Income allocated to participating securities Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities, Diluted Earnings allocated (not distributed) to participating securities under the two-class method to the extend that participating securities may share in earnings as if all of the earnings for the period had been distributed. Net income available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Anti-dilutive shares excluded from dilutive earnings per share calculations (1) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Exit Of Retail Operations Exit Of Retail Operations [Member] Exit Of Retail Operations [Member] Other Closure Costs Other Restructuring [Member] Severance and Other Benefits Severance and Other Benefits [Member] Severance and Other Benefits [Member] Accelerated Depreciation Accelerated Depreciation [Member] Accelerated Depreciation [Member] Employee Severance Employee Severance [Member] Inventory Write-Offs Inventory Write-Offs [Member] Inventory Write Offs [Member] Business exit costs Business Exit Costs Restructuring reserve, beginning balance Restructuring Reserve Payments Payments for Restructuring Restructuring reserve, ending balance Unaudited summarized financial data Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of basic common shares outstanding to diluted common and common equivalent shares outstanding Schedule Of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of the weighted average number of shares outstanding and disclosures pertaining to an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share. EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Long-lived assets International long-lived assets, as a percent of total long-lived assets International Long-Lived Assets, Percent of Total Long-Lived Assets International Long-Lived Assets, Percent of Total Long-Lived Assets GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Table] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Table] Defined Contribution Plan Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items] Minimum age participation for the defined contribution plan (in years) Minimum age participation for the defined contribution plan Minimum age requirement for participation in the defined contribution plan. Minimum service participation for the defined contribution plan (in months) Minimum service participation for the defined contribution plan Minimum service requirement in months for participation in the defined contribution plan. Minimum hours service participation for the defined contribution plan (in hours) Minimum hours service participation for the defined contribution plan Minimum service requirement in hours for participation in the defined contribution plan. Defined contribution plan expense for the fiscal year Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Line of Credit BOA [Member] Line of Credit BOA [Member] A contractual arrangement with a lender under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time, and under which borrowings outstanding may be either short-term or long-term, depending upon the particulars. Letter of Credit BOA [Member] Letter of Credit BOA [Member] A document typically issued by a financial institution which acts as a guarantee of payment to a beneficiary, or as the source of payment for a specific transaction (for example, wiring funds to a foreign exporter if and when specified merchandise is accepted pursuant to the terms of the letter of credit). Swingline BOA [Member] Swingline BOA [Member] Financial information associated with Swingline sub limit. Multi currency incremental facility [Member] Multi currency incremental facility [Member] Multi currency incremental facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] U.S. dollar facility revolving loans [Member] U.S. dollar facility revolving loans [Member] U.S. dollar facility revolving loans [Member] Multicurrency credit facility [Member] Multicurrency Credit Facility [Member] A contractual arrangement with a lender under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time, and under which borrowings outstanding may be either short-term or long-term, depending upon the particulars. Multicurrency facility loans denominated in U.S. dollars [Member] Multicurrency facility loans denominated in U.S. dollars [Member] Multicurrency facility loans denominated in U.S. dollars [Member] Multicurrency facility loans denominated in Canadian dollars [Member] Multicurrency facility loans denominated in Canadian dollars [Member] Multicurrency facility loans denominated in Canadian dollars [Member] Incremental Facilities [Member] Incremental Facilitie [Member] Incremental Facilitie [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate [Member] CDOR Rate [Member] CDOR Rate [Member] CDOR Rate [Member] LIBOR [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Base Rate [Member] Base Rate [Member] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Axis] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Axis] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Axis] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Domain] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Domain] Debt Covenant, Restricted Time Periods [Domain] Ends on or before December 31, 2016 [Member] Ends on or before December 31, 2016 [Member] Ends on or before December 31, 2016 [Member] Ends after December 31, 2016 [Member] Ends after December 31, 2016 [Member] Ends after December 31, 2016 [Member] Any period [Member] Any period [Member] Any period [Member] TWCC [Member] The William Carters Company [Member] The William Carters Company [Member] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] United States of America, Dollars United States of America, Dollars Revolving credit facility Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt Issuance Cost Debt Issuance Cost Debt instrument debt issuance cost amortization period Debt instrument debt issuance cost amortization period Amortization period for debt issuance costs. Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Available for future borrowing Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Variable interest rate, basis spread (as a percentage) Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Effective interest rate (in hundredths) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Debt covenants, EBITDAR restrictions (as a ratio) Line of Credit, Debt Covenants, EBITDAR Terms Line of Credit, Debt Covenants, EBITDAR Terms Restricted amount of dividends payable Dividend Payments, Restriction on Dividends Payable Dividend Payments, Restriction on Dividends Payable Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of redemption price applicable where redemption occurs Schedule of Redemption Price [Table Text Block] Schedule of Redemption Price [Table Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Net periodic pension cost Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Redemption, 2016 [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Redemption, 2017 [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] Redemption, 2018 [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member] Redemption, 2019 and Thereafter [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member] Triggering Event [Axis] Triggering Event [Axis] Triggering Event [Axis] Triggering Event [Domain] Triggering Event [Domain] [Domain] for Triggering Event [Axis] Changes of Control [Member] Changes of Control [Member] Changes of Control [Member] Sale of Certain Assets [Member] Sale of Certain Assets [Member] Sale of Certain Assets [Member] Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Redeemable debt instrument, percentage of principal Debt Instrument, Redeemable, Percentage of Principal Debt Instrument, Redeemable, Percentage of Principal Redemption price, percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Restriction on dividends payable, net income benchmark Dividend Payments, Restriction on Dividends Payable, Net Income Benchmark Dividend Payments, Restriction on Dividends Payable, Net Income Benchmark Ownership percentage of notes, to declare notes due and payable Debt Instrument, Redemption, Ownership Percentage to Declare Payment Due Ownership percentage of trustee or holders, in principal amount, that would allow the holder to declare notes due and payable. Accounts receivable reserves Accounts receivable reserves [Table Text Block] A schedule of allowance and reserve accounts including their beginning and ending balances, as well as a reconciliation by type of activity during the period. Alternatively, disclosure of the required information may be within the footnotes to the financial statements or a supplemental schedule to the financial statements. Provision for income taxes Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Federal statutory tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Net deferred tax liability Unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Positions for which Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table Text Block] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net Finished goods inventories Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant, and equipment, net Tradenames and other intangible assets, net Deferred debt issuance costs, net Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred income taxes Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock; par value $.01 per share; 100,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding at January 2, 2016 and January 3, 2015 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, voting; par value $.01 per share; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 51,764,309 and 52,712,193 shares issued and outstanding at January 2, 2016 and January 3, 2015, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Baby [Member] Baby [Member] Baby [Member] Playclothes [Member] Playclothes [Member] Playclothes [Member] Sleepwear [Member] Sleepwear [Member] Sleepwear [Member] Other Products [Member] Other Products [Member] Other Products [Member] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] View Intercompany Receivables Intercompany Receivables Intercompany loan receivable Intercompany Loan Receivables Intercompany Loan Receivables Total current assets Tradenames and other intangibles, net Intercompany long term receivable Intercompany Long Term Receivables Intercompany Long Term Receivables Intercompany long term note receivable Intercompany Long Term Note Receivable Intercompany Long Term Note Receivable Investment in subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Total assets Inventory Intercompany Payables Intercompany Payables Intercompany loan payables Intercompany Loan Payables Intercompany Loan Payables Total current liabilities Goodwill Intercompany Long Term Liability Intercompany Long Term Liability Intercompany long term note payable Intercompany Long Term Note Payable Intercompany Long Term Note Payable Total stockholders’ equity Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Non-Management Board Members Director [Member] Number of shares issued Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Fair value per share Aggregate value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Intrinsic Value, Amount Per Share Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Discounted Cash Flow [Member] Discounted Cash Flow Valuation Technique [Member] Discounted Cash Flow Valuation Technique [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Unobservable inputs, Estimated contingent consideration payment Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Contingent Consideration Payment Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Contingent Consideration Payment Unobservable inputs, Discount rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Unobservable inputs, Probability assumption Fair Value Inputs, Probability Assumption Fair Value Inputs, Probability Assumption Document Information [Abstract] Document Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Increase in the number of shares under the existing plan (in shares) Increase Decrease shares authorized stock compensation plan Increase (decrease) in the number of the duly authorized stock compensation plan. Original number of shares available under the plan (in shares) Original number of shares available under the plan The maximum number of shares (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors), for awards under the equity-based compensation plan. As stock or unit options and equity instruments other than options are awarded to participants, the shares or units remain authorized and become reserved for issuance under outstanding awards (not necessarily vested). Stock available under the existing plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Available for grant under the Plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Vesting period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Intrinsic value of basic stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]