CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 03, 2015	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 194,670	$ 160,407	$ 161,150
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(7,845)	(5,486)	1,058
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(12,955)	1,123	77
Comprehensive income	181,715	161,530	161,227
Unrealized gain (loss) on OshKosh defined benefit plan, net of tax of $2,920, ($3,660), $690 for the fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively	(4,963)	6,238	(1,163)
Unrealized gain (loss) on Carter's post-retirement benefit obligation, net of tax of $91, ($210), ($107) for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively	$ (147)	$ 371	$ 182