Commitments and contingencies - (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 01, 2019	Feb. 02, 2018	Feb. 03, 2017
Future minimum payments for operating leases
2019	$ 1,185,608
2020	1,135,292
2021	1,073,768
2022	1,004,124
2023	928,989
Thereafter	4,518,502
Total minimum payments	9,846,283
Total minimum payments for capital leases	13,300
Present value of net minimum capital lease payments	11,000
Gross property and equipment recorded under capital lease	36,200	$ 36,200
Accumulated depreciation on property and equipment recorded under capital lease	14,300	12,400
Operating lease rent expenses
Minimum rentals	1,154,429	1,075,984	$ 935,663
Contingent rentals	4,656	5,532	6,748
Operating lease rent expenses	$ 1,159,085	$ 1,081,516	$ 942,411
Maximum
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Typical period of primary lease term for operating lease, build-to-suit, maximum	15 years