Segment Reporting (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	May 04, 2013	Apr. 28, 2012
Operating Segments
Net sales	$ 140,445	$ 147,945
Percentage of consolidated net sales	100.00%	100.00%
Operating income (loss)	3,198	(441)
Depreciation and amortization expense	3,338	4,691
Interest income	40	38
Interest expense	(46)	(48)
Income (loss) before benefit for income taxes	3,192	(451)
Wet Seal [Member]
Operating Segments
Net sales	122,799	126,175
Percentage of consolidated net sales	87.00%	85.00%
Operating income (loss)	9,553	9,324
Depreciation and amortization expense	2,584	3,856
Income (loss) before benefit for income taxes	9,553	9,324
Arden B [Member]
Operating Segments
Net sales	17,646	21,770
Percentage of consolidated net sales	13.00%	15.00%
Operating income (loss)	558	(1,304)
Depreciation and amortization expense	260	454
Income (loss) before benefit for income taxes	558	(1,304)
Corporate and Unallocated [Member]
Operating Segments
Operating income (loss)	(6,913)	(8,461)
Depreciation and amortization expense	494	381
Interest income	40	38
Interest expense	(46)	(48)
Income (loss) before benefit for income taxes	$ (6,919)	$ (8,471)