Acquisitions And Divestitures (Schedule Of Unaudited Pro Forma Effect On Operating Results) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2011	Jul. 30, 2011
Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 620,590	$ 1,246,902
Net (loss) earnings attributable to Brown Shoe Company, Inc.	$ (3,823)	$ 2,786
Basic (loss) earnings per common share attributable to Brown Shoe Company, Inc. shareholders	$ (0.09)	$ 0.06
Diluted (loss) earnings per common share attributable to Brown Shoe Company, Inc. shareholders	$ (0.09)	$ 0.06