Classification and Amount of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income to Consolidated Statement of Operations (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014		Mar. 31, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Cost of sales	$ (464,646)		$ (455,555)
(Loss) Income Before Income Taxes	(9,421)		44,165
Provision for income taxes	(1,797)		(5,654)
Net (Loss) Income	(11,218)		38,511
Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Derivative Instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Provision for income taxes	(49)		(2)
Net (Loss) Income	(2,767)		1,129
Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Derivative Instruments | Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Cost of sales	(2,718)		1,131
Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Defined Benefit Pension Plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service credit	264	[1]	126	[1]
Recognized actuarial loss	(3,662)	[1]	(5,146)	[1]
(Loss) Income Before Income Taxes	(3,398)		(5,020)
Provision for income taxes	1,218		1,900
Net (Loss) Income	$ (2,180)		$ (3,120)

[1] The amortization of prior service credit and recognized actuarial loss are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. Refer to "Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements-Employee Benefit Plans" of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for additional information regarding Mattel's net periodic benefit cost.