Leases (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 02, 2013	Jan. 28, 2012	Jan. 29, 2011
Leases [Line Items]
Charges not included in rent expense	$ 74	$ 69	$ 65
Minimum [Member] | Nordstrom full-line store leases [Member]
Leases [Line Items]
Non-cancelable lease terms (in years)	15 years
Minimum [Member] | Nordstrom Rack store leases [Member]
Leases [Line Items]
Non-cancelable lease terms (in years)	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Nordstrom full-line store leases [Member]
Leases [Line Items]
Non-cancelable lease terms (in years)	30 years
Maximum [Member] | Nordstrom Rack store leases [Member]
Leases [Line Items]
Non-cancelable lease terms (in years)	15 years