Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Nov. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013	Nov. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 33,237	$ 27,284	$ 66,752	$ 31,735
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(1,159)	(100)	(28)	(1,690)
Pension and other postretirement benefits adjustments	(28)	138	(84)	419
Derivative financial instruments	57	(32)	(1,053)	366
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(1,130)	6	(1,165)	(905)
Comprehensive income	32,107	27,290	65,587	30,830
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	93	(25)	100	(114)
Comprehensive income attributable to Brown Shoe Company, Inc.	$ 32,014	$ 27,315	$ 65,487	$ 30,944