General (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2012	Apr. 30, 2011	Jan. 28, 2012
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line items]
Commissions from leased departments	$ 11,114	$ 8,726
Leased department sales	76,645	63,415
Cash equivalents	183,695	192,786	195,449
Income earned on cash equivalents	190	244
Impairments and dispositions	310	2,868
Deferred rent liabilities	70,812	61,201	66,524
Liability for unredeemed gift cards	26,258	28,663	28,933
Stores Closing Costs [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line items]
Impairments and dispositions	$ 310	$ 2,868