Accounts Receivable by Portfolio Segment, Net (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 01, 2014	Feb. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable, net	$ 1,292.1	$ 1,374.0	$ 1,123.5
Sterling Jewelers Customer In-House Finance Receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable, net	1,280.3	1,356.0	1,111.8
Other Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable, net	$ 11.8	$ 18.0	$ 11.7