Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Aug. 02, 2014	Aug. 03, 2013	Aug. 02, 2014	Aug. 03, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 18,039	$ 15,283	$ 33,515	$ 4,451
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	244	(900)	1,131	(1,590)
Pension and other post retirement benefits adjustments	(33)	136	(56)	281
Derivative financial instruments	(723)	512	(1,110)	398
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(512)	(252)	(35)	(911)
Comprehensive income	17,527	15,031	33,480	3,540
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(28)	(61)	7	(89)
Comprehensive income attributable to Brown Shoe Company, Inc.	$ 17,555	$ 15,092	$ 33,473	$ 3,629