Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Canadian Sub Facility Canadian Sub Facility [Member] Canadian sub-facility. Domestic Facility Domestic Facility [Member] Domestic facility. Amended Credit Facility Amended Credit Facility [Member] Amended Credit Facility [Member] Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] UK Credit Facility Uk Credit Facility [Member] UK Credit Facility. U.S. Revolver Borrowings Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] UK Term Loans Uk Term Loans [Member] UK Term Loans. UK Revolver Borrowings UK Revolver Borrowings [Member] UK Revolver Borrowings [Member] Swingline Loan Swingline Loan [Member] Swingline loan. Standby Letters of Credit Standby Letters of Credit [Member] UK Sub Facility UK Sub Facility [Member] UK Sub Facility [Member] Term Loan A Term Loan A [Member] Term Loan A Term Loan B Term Loan B [Member] Term Loan B Working Capital Facility Working Capital Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Term Loan C Term Loan C [Member] Term Loan C [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Federal Funds Rate Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), 30-Day LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), 30-Day LIBOR [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), 30-Day LIBOR [Member] Canadian Overnight Rate, Bank of America Canadian Overnight Rate, Bank of America [Member] Canadian Overnight Rate, Bank of America Bankers Acceptances Rate, 30-Day BA Rate Bankers Acceptances Rate, 30-Day BA Rate [Member] Bankers Acceptances Rate, 30-Day BA Rate [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Genesco (UK) Limited Genesco Uk Limited [Member] Genesco (UK) Limited. GCO Canada Inc. GCO Canada Inc [Member] GCO Canada Inc [Member] Schuh Group Schuh Group [Member] Schuh Group. Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract] Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract] Long-term debt. Long-term debt maturing in year one Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term debt maturing in year two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term debt maturing in year three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term debt maturing in year four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term debt maturing in year five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term debt Long-term Debt Aggregate principal amount of credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Capitalized deferred financing costs of credit facility and amendment Debt Issuance Costs, Net Amortization period of deferred financing costs for credit facility and amendment Amortization Period of Deferred Financing Costs for Credit Facility and Amendment Amortization period of deferred financing costs for credit facility and amendment. Increase in availability under credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Aggregate amount of loans and letters of credit subject to receipt of commitment Aggregate Amount of Loans and Letters of Credit Subject to Receipt of Commitments Aggregate amount of loans and letters of credit subject to receipt of commitments. Components of borrowing base Components of Borrowing Base Components of borrowing base. Borrowing base based upon percentage of eligible inventory Borrowing Base Based upon Percentage of Eligible inventory Borrowing base based upon percentage of eligible inventory. Borrowing base based upon percentage of eligible wholesale receivables Borrowing Base Based upon Percentage of Eligible Wholesale Receivables Borrowing base based upon percentage of eligible wholesale receivables. Borrowing base percentage of eligible credit card and debit card receivables less applicable reserves Borrowing Base is Percentage of Eligible Credit Card and Debit Card Receivables Less Applicable Reserves Borrowing base is percentage of eligible credit card and debit card receivables less applicable reserves. Borrowing base percentage as maximum from loan cap Borrowing Base Percentage as Maximum from Loan Cap Borrowing Base Percentage as Maximum from Loan Cap Percentage of shares pledged by company Percentage of Shares Pledged by Company Percentage of shares pledged by company. Prime rate description Prime Rate Description Prime rate description. Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Applicable margin plus higher of condition one Applicable Margin Plus Higher of First Condition Applicable margin plus higher of first condition. Applicable margin plus higher of condition two Applicable Margin Plus Higher of Second Condition Applicable margin plus higher of second condition. Initial applicable margin for base rate loans and U.S. Index rate loans Margin for Base Rate Loans and US Index Rate Loans Initial applicable margin for base rate loans and U.S. Index rate loans. Initial applicable margin for LIBOR loans and BA equivalent loans Margin for LIBOR Loans and BA Equivalent Loans Initial applicable margin for LIBOR loans and BA equivalent loans. Commitment fee on the actual daily unused portions of the credit facility one Line of Credit Facility Unused Capacity Commitment Fee Percentage One Line of Credit Facility unused capacity commitment fee percentage one. Financial covenants, Excess Availability threshold Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Excess Availability Threshold Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Excess Availability Threshold Financial covenants, Excess Availability threshold percentage Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Excess Availability Threshold Percentage Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Excess Availability Threshold Percentage Covenants for fixed charge coverage ratio (not less than) Covenants For Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio 1 Covenants For Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio 1 Covenants for fixed charge coverage ratio (description) Covenants for Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Covenants for fixed charge coverage ratio. Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Excess availability under credit facility Excess Availability under Credit Facility Excess availability under credit facility. Amended amount on senior debt covenant Amended Amount on Senior Debt Covenant Amended amount on senior debt covenant. Financial covenants, Excess Availability threshold for cash dominion Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Cash Dominion, Unless Excess Availability Amount Financial covenants unless excess availability amount. Financial covenants, Excess Availability threshold percentage for cash dominion Debt Instrument, Financial Covenants, Cash Dominion, Unless Excess Availability Percentage Financial covenants unless excess availability Percentage. Interest coverage covenant minimum level Interest Coverage Covenant Minimum Level Interest coverage covenant minimum level. Interest coverage covenant maximum level Interest Coverage Covenant, Current Maximum Level Interest coverage covenant, current maximum level. Interest Coverage Covenant, Declining Balance, Maximum Level Interest Coverage Covenant, Declining Balance, Maximum Level Interest Coverage Covenant, Declining Balance, Maximum Level Cash flow coverage covenant minimum level Cash Flow Coverage Covenant Minimum Level Cash flow coverage covenant minimum level. Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Employees’ Subordinated Convertible Preferred Employees Subordinated Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Employees subordinated convertible preferred stock. Stated Value of Issued Shares Stated Value Of Issued Shares [Member] Stated value of issued shares. Employees’ Preferred Stock Purchase Accounts Employees Preferred Stock Purchase Accounts [Member] Employees' preferred stock purchase accounts. Non-Redeemable Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Non-Redeemable Preferred Stock Preferred Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Shares Authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Number of Shares (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Pension liability adjustment, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension Liability Adjustment, Tax Amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension Liability Adjustment, Tax Amount Postretirement liability adjustment, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Postretirement Liability Adjustment, Tax Amount Postretirement liability adjustment, tax amount Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Details of quarterly financial information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Lids Team Sports Lids Team Sports [Member] Lids Team Sports [Member] SureGrip Footwear SureGrip Footwear [Member] SureGrip Footwear [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of deferred note expense and debt discount Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Provision for accounts receivable Provision for Doubtful Accounts Indemnification asset write-off Indemnification Asset, Write-off Indemnification Asset, Write-off Impairment of long-lived assets Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Restricted stock expense Restricted Stock or Unit Expense Provision for discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, before Income Tax Gain on sale of businesses Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business Loss on pension buyout Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Tax benefit of stock options and restricted stock Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Effect on cash from changes in working capital and other assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions/dispositions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaids and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Other accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Other assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Proceeds from asset sales and sale of businesses Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment and Divestiture of Businesses Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment and Divestiture of Businesses Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Payments of long-term debt Repayments of Other Long-term Debt Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Borrowings under revolving credit facility Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Payments on revolving credit facility Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Tax benefit of stock options and restricted stock Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Shares repurchased Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Change in overdraft balances Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts Additions to deferred note cost Increase (Decrease) to Deferred Note Expense Increase (Decrease) to Deferred Note Expense Exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Net cash paid for: Net Cash Paid for Abstract Net cash paid for. Interest Interest Paid Income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Employees’ Preferred Stock Employees Preferred Stock [Member] Employee's preferred stock. Changes in shares of company's capital stock Changes in Shares of Companys Capital Stock [Roll Forward] Changes in shares of company's capital stock. Issued, beginning balance Common Stock, Shares, Issued Preferred stock, beginning balance Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Exercise of options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Issue restricted stock Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Issue shares - Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Shares repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Shares Issued, ending balance Preferred stock, ending balance Less shares repurchased and held in treasury Treasury Stock, Shares Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Preferred stock, outstanding (in shares) Details of Quarterly financial information Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Gross margin Gross Profit Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Earnings from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Diluted earnings per common share: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations (USD per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Net earnings (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury Shares Treasury Stock [Member] Non Controlling Interest Non-Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Issue shares – Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee and non-employee restricted stock Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Unit or Restricted Stock Award, Requisite Service Period Recognition Restricted stock issuance Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Restricted shares withheld for taxes Restricted Shares Withheld for Taxes Restricted shares withheld for taxes Tax benefit of stock options and restricted stock exercised Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Shares repurchased Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Noncontrolling interest – gain (loss) Minority Interest Gain (Loss) Minority Interest Gain (Loss) Ending balance Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Canada CANADA Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Lids Sports Group Lids Sports Group Segment [Member] Lids Sports Group Segment [Member] Schuh Group Schuh Group Segment [Member] Schuh Group Segment [Member] Licensed Brands Licensed Brands Segment [Member] Licensed Brands Segment [Member] Journeys Group Journeys Group Segment [Member] Journeys Group Segment [Member] Johnston & Murphy Group Segment Johnston & Murphy Group Segment [Member] Johnston & Murphy Group Segment [Member] Corporate & Other Corporate and Other [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Retail Store Asset Impairments Retail Store Asset Impairments [Member] Retail Store Asset Impairments. Pension Settlement Expense Pension Settlement Expense [Member] Pension Settlement Expense [Member] Other Legal Matters Other Legal Matters [Member] Other legal matters. Lease Termination Contract Termination [Member] Computer Network Intrusion Computer Network Intrusion [Member] Computer network intrusion. Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of reportable business segments Number of Reportable Business Segments Number of reportable business segments. Asset impairments and other, net Asset Impairment and Other Charges, Net of Gains Asset Impairment and Other Charges, Net of Gains Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill period adjustments, increase (decrease) Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease) Goodwill, translation adjustments Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Segment reporting information by segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred tax assets net classification Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Classification [Abstract] Net current asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Net non-current asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Net non-current liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Net Deferred Tax Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Summary of basic and diluted earnings per share Summary of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Summary of basic and diluted earnings per share. Earnings from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Basic EPS from continuing operations Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders, Income (Numerator) Net Income Loss Attributable To Parent Basic Net income loss attributable to parent basic Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders, in shares (Denominator) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders (USD per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Effect of Dilutive Securities from continuing operations Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Options and restricted stock, in shares (Denominator) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Employees' preferred stock, in shares (Denominator) Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Employees Preferred Stock Incremental common shares attributable to employees preferred stock. Diluted EPS from continuing operations Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions, Income (Numerator) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Diluted Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions, in shares (Denominator) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Continuing operations (USD per share) Common convertible ratio (in shares) Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Accounting Policies [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Noncurrent Assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Member] Foreign Currency Translation Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Foreign Subsidiaries Foreign Subsidiaries [Member] Foreign Subsidiaries [Member] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Major Customer One Major Customer One [Member] Major Customer One [Member] Major Customer Two Major Customer Two [Member] Major Customer Two [Member] Major Customer Three Major Customer Three [Member] Major Customer Three [Member] Other Major Customers Other Major Customers [Member] Other Major Customers [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Trade Accounts Receivable Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Summary of Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Accounting Policies [Table] Total number of retail stores operated by company Number of Retail Stores Operated by Company Number of retail stores operated by company. Days in fiscal year Days in Fiscal Year Days in Fiscal Year Pretax accruals for environmental contingencies included in provision for discontinued operations Pretax Accruals For Environmental Contingencies Included In Provision For Discontinued Operations Pretax accruals for environmental contingencies included in provision for discontinued operations. Deferred tax valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Minimum number of hours of service of full time employees Minimum Number of Hours of Service of Full Time Employees Minimum number of hours of service of full time employees. Calculated value of pension assets, measurement period Calculated Value of Pension Assets, Measurement Period Calculated Value of Pension Assets, Measurement Period Average future service of employees Average Future Service of Employees Average Future Service of Employees Cash Payment processing duration, minimum Payment Processing Duration, Minimum Payment Processing Duration, Minimum Payment processing duration, maximum Payment Processing Duration, Maximum Payment Processing Duration, Maximum Excess of outstanding checks drawn on zero balance accounts at domestic banks exceeded book cash balance Excess of Outstanding Checks Drawn on Zero Balance Accounts at Domestic Banks Exceeded Book Cash Balance Excess of Outstanding Checks Drawn on Zero Balance Accounts at Domestic Banks Exceeded Book Cash Balance Number of significant customers Concentration Risk, Number of Significant Customers Concentration Risk, Number of Significant Customers Concentration risk percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Benchmark percentage Concentration Risk, Benchmark Percentage Concentration Risk, Benchmark Percentage Asset retirement obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Wholesale and unallocated retail costs of distribution Wholesale and Unallocated Retail Costs of Distribution Wholesale and unallocated retail costs of distribution. Bonus awards in excess of specified cap measurement period Bonus Awards in Excess of Specified Cap Measurement Period Bonus Awards in Excess of Specified Cap Measurement Period Bonus awards in excess of specified cap payment period Bonus Awards in Excess of Specified Cap Payment Period Bonus Awards in Excess of Specified Cap Payment Period Expense in connection with amendment plan Bonus Expense Bonus Expense Gift card breakage recognized as revenue Revenue Recognition, Gift Cards, Breakage Accrued liability for gift cards Gift Card Liability, Current Retail occupancy costs Occupancy Costs Advertising costs Advertising Expense Deferred advertising costs, amortization period Deferred Advertising Costs, Amortization Period Deferred Advertising Costs, Amortization Period Prepaid advertising Prepaid Advertising Cooperative advertising costs Cooperative Advertising Amount Vendor reimbursements of cooperative advertising costs Vendor Reimbursements of Cooperative Advertising Costs Vendor reimbursements of cooperative advertising costs. Foreign currency transaction (gain) loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Basic earnings per share adjustment (USD per share) Basic Earnings Per Share Adjustment, Pro Forma Deferred income taxes, current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred financing costs Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Other Benefits Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Net loss Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Total Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Nature of Operations Nature of Operations [Policy Text Block] Nature of Operations. Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Year Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Valuation Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental and Other Contingencies Environmental Costs and Other Contingencies Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Costs and Other Contingencies Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Postretirement Benefits Plan Accounting Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk and Allowances on Accounts Receivable Concentration of Credit Risk and Allowances on Accounts Receivable [Policy Text Block] Concentration of credit risk and allowances on accounts receivable. Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Leases Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Acquisitions Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangibles Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Selling and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] EVA Incentive Plan Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Gift Cards Revenue Recognition, Gift Cards [Policy Text Block] Buying, Merchandising and Occupancy Costs Buying Merchandising and Occupancy Costs [Policy Text Block] Buying, merchandising and occupancy costs. Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Preopening Costs Preopening Costs [Policy Text Block] Preopening Costs. Store Closings and Exit Costs Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities or Restructurings, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consideration to Resellers Consideration to Resellers [Policy Text Block] Consideration to Resellers. Cooperative Advertising Cooperative Advertising Policy [Policy Text Block] Vendor Allowances Cost of Sales, Vendor Allowances, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income Other Comprehensive Income [Policy Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income. Business Segments Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Principles New Accounting Principles [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Principles. Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Settlement loss recognized Prior service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Net amortization Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Defined Benefit Plan Amortization. Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements Nonrecurring Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Long-Lived Assets Held and Used Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Total Asset Impairment Fiscal 2017 Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $3,073 at January 28, 2017 and $2,960 at January 30, 2016 Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Deferred income taxes Prepaids and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Land Land Buildings and building equipment Buildings and Improvements, Gross Computer hardware, software and equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures, Gross Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Improvements to leased property Leasehold Improvements, Gross Property and equipment, at cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Trademarks, net of accumulated amortization of $5,574 at January 28, 2017 and $5,039 at January 30, 2016 Trademarks Net of Accumulated Amortization Trademarks, net of accumulated amortization. Other intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $16,200 at January 28, 2017 and $15,947 at January 30, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued employee compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued other taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Current portion – long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Provision for discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Pension liability Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Deferred rent and other long-term liabilities Deferred Rent and Other Long Term Liabilities Deferred rent and other long-term liabilities. Provision for discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingent liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Non-redeemable preferred stock Common equity: Common Shareholders Equity Abstract Common equity: Common stock, $1 par value: Authorized: 80,000,000 shares Issued/Outstanding: January 28, 2017 – 20,354,272/19,865,808 and January 30, 2016 – 22,322,799/21,834,335 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury shares, at cost (488,464 shares) Treasury Stock, Value Total Genesco equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest – non-redeemable Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Reconciliation of the United States federal statutory rate to the Company's effective tax rate from continuing operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] U. S. federal statutory rate of tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State taxes (net of federal tax benefit) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Foreign rate differential Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Change in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Permanent items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Permanent Items Effective income tax rate reconciliation permanent items. Uncertain federal, state and foreign tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Contingency, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Nonvested Restricted Shares Restricted Stock [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Summary of the status of the Company's nonvested shares of its employee restricted stock Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested Shares, Beginning balance, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Withheld for federal taxes, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Withheld For Federal Taxes in Period Share-based compensation arrangement by Share-based payment award equity instruments other than options withheld for federal taxes in period. Forfeited, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Nonvested Shares, Ending balance, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Nonvested, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Beginning balance (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Withheld for federal taxes, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Withheld for Federal Taxes in Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options withheld for federal taxes in period weighted average grant date fair value. Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Ending balance (usd per share) Net restructuring and other charge Restructuring and Other Net Restructuring and other, net. Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Quarterly Financial Information (Textual) [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Information (Textual) [Abstract] Quarterly financial information. (Gain) loss from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, Net of Tax (Gain) loss on sale of businesses Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Gain Contingencies, Nature [Axis] Gain Contingencies, Nature [Axis] Gain Contingency, Nature [Domain] Gain Contingency, Nature [Domain] Positive Outcome of Litigation Positive Outcome of Litigation [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Village of Garden City, New York Village of Garden City, New York [Member] Village of Garden City, New York Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Threatened Litigation Threatened Litigation [Member] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Environmental Monitoring, Operation and Maintenance Activities Environmental Monitoring, Operation and Maintenance Activities [Member] Environmental Monitoring, Operation and Maintenance Activities EPA Interim Oversight Costs EPA Interim Oversight Costs [Member] EPA Interim Oversight Costs [Member] Response Costs Claimed by the EPA Response Costs Claimed by the EPA [Member] Response Costs Claimed by the EPA [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss contingency, estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Number of water supply wells Loss Contingency, Number of Water Supply Wells Loss Contingency, Number of Water Supply Wells Minimum historical cost associated with enhanced treatment required by the impact of groundwater plume Minimum Historical Cost Associated With Enhanced Treatment Minimum historical cost associated with enhanced treatment. Maximum historical cost associated with enhanced treatment required by the impact of groundwater plume Maximum Historical Cost Associated With Enhanced Treatment Maximum historical cost associated with enhanced treatment. Future operation and maintenance costs Future Operation And Maintenance Costs Future operation and maintenance costs. Litigation settlement amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Loss contingency, estimated recovery from a third party, percent Loss Contingency, Estimated Recovery from a Third Party, Percent Loss Contingency, Estimated Recovery from a Third Party, Percent Loss contingency, estimated recovery from a third party Loss Contingency, Estimated Recovery from a Third Party Loss Contingency, Estimated Recovery from a Third Party Amount related to outstanding environmental contingencies Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Accrual for environmental loss contingencies Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments Number of claimants Number of Claimants Number of Claimants Loss contingency in period Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Noncompliance fines and issuer reimbursement assessments Gain Contingency, Unrecorded Amount Pretax gain on settlement Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property Plant And Equipment Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings and building equipment Buildings And Building Equipment [Member] Buildings and building equipment. Computer hardware, software and equipment Computer Hardware Software And Equipment [Member] Computer hardware, software and equipment. Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation Depreciation Property and equipment amortized over the estimated useful life of related assets Property and Equipment Amortized over the Estimated Useful Life of Related Assets [Abstract] Property and equipment amortized over the estimated useful life of related assets. Property and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Net (gain) loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Amortization of net actuarial loss Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax Total Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Comprehensive Income Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Other Comprehensive Income Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Other Comprehensive Income. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Other intangible assets by major classes Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block] Current liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Noncurrent liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Net Amount Recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Non redeemable preferred stock Non Redeemable Preferred Stock [Table Text Block] Non redeemable preferred stock. Preferred stock transactions Preferred Stock Transactions [Table Text Block] Preferred Stock Transactions. Changes in the shares of the company's capital stock Changes in Shares of Companys Capital Stock [Table Text Block] Changes in shares of company's capital stock. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Accounts Receivable Allowances Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Markdown Reserve Inventory Valuation Reserve [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Beginning Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Charged to Profit and Loss Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense Increases (Decreases) Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Adjustments Ending Balance Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of sales Cost of Goods Sold Selling and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Earnings from operations Operating Income (Loss) Indemnification asset write-off Interest expense, net: Interest Income (Expense), Net [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Total interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Net Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Earnings from continuing operations Provision for discontinued operations, net Net Earnings Basic earnings per common share: Continuing operations (USD per share) Discontinued operations (USD per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net earnings (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Discontinued operations (USD per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net earnings (USD per share) Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Discontinued operations income tax benefit Discontinued Operation, Tax (Expense) Benefit from Provision for (Gain) Loss on Disposal Tax benefit of stock options and restricted stock exercised Effective tax rate for continuing operation Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credit carryforward Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Increase in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiary Accumulated Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiary Accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiary. Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Interest expense (benefit) on unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense Income tax penalties expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Expense Interest on income taxes accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Income tax penalties accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued Period of statutes of limitation of subsidiaries in foreign jurisdictions Period of Statutes of Limitation of Subsidiaries in Foreign Jurisdictions Period of Statutes of Limitation of Subsidiaries in Foreign Jurisdictions. Obligations and funded status Schedule of Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income Amounts Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Amounts Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Pension benefits Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Components of net periodic benefit cost Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Not yet Recognized [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of accumulated other comprehensive income Reconciliation Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs Weighted Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Weighted Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Periodic Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Assumed health care cost trend rates Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Effect of one percentage point change in the assumed health care cost trend rate Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Company's pension plan weighted average asset allocations by asset category Schedule Of Changes In Fair Value Of Pension Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Changes In Fair Value Of Pension Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations [Table Text Block] Hierarchy of plan assets by level within fair values Schedule Of Pension Plan Assets By Level Within Fair Value Table Text Block [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Pension Plan Assets By Level Within Fair Value Table Text Block [Table Text Block] Expected benefit payments from the trust, including future service and pay Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Asset Impairments and Other Charges and Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Asset Impairments and Other Charges and Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Asset Write-down Asset Write-down [Member] Asset Write-down [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Gain on lease termination Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Loss from discontinued operations Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Vesting percentage - Year 1 Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member] Vesting percentage - Year 2 Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member] Vesting percentage - Year 3 Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member] Vesting percentage - Year 4 Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four [Member] Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class Of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Name [Axis] Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Name [Axis] Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Plan [Domain] Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Plan [Domain] Stock Purchase Plans Stock Purchase Plans [Member] Stock Purchase Plans. Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2009 Equity Incentive Plan Two Thousands Nine Equity Incentive Plan [Member] Equity Incentive Plan. 2005 Equity Incentive Plan Two Thousands Five Equity Incentive Plan [Member] Equity Incentive Plan. Addition to the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan Addition to the Two Thousand Nine Equity Incentive Plan [Member] [Member] Addition to the Two Thousand Nine Equity Incentive Plan [Member] [Member] Stock Options Employee Stock Option [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments, by Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title Of Individual With Relationship To Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Director Director [Member] Share-Based Compensation Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Share Based Compensation Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Share-based compensation plans. Number of fixed stock compensation plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Share-Based Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Share-Based Compensation Plans Share-based compensation, shares issued Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Stock option's maximum term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Annual vesting percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Vesting term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Total intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Unrecognized share-based compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Shares granted Restriction period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Restriction Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Restriction Period Share-based compensation for restricted stock value grant in period Share Based Compensation Arrangements for Restricted Stock Value Grant in Period Share-based compensation arrangements for restricted stock value grant in period. Number of trading days to determine grant value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Trading Days to Determine Grant Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Trading Days to Determine Grant Value Share-based compensation, shares issued Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Share-based compensation cost Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Weighted average expected period nonvested share-based compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Shares authorized for issuance Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares Authorized for Issuance Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares Authorized for Issuance Employee annual base salary to qualify under plan Employee Annual Base Salary to Qualify Under Plan Employee annual base salary to qualify under plan. Shares sold to employees Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares Contributed to ESOP Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract] Aggregated service and interest cost, 1% increase in rates Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Aggregated service and interest cost, 1% decrease in rates Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, 1% increase in rates Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, 1% decrease in rates Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Johnston & Murphy Group Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Intercompany Eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment reporting information by segment Segment Reporting Information by Segment [Abstract] Segment reporting information by segment. Net sales to external customers Asset impairments and other Earnings from operations Interest income Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Assets Depreciation and amortization Capital expenditures Leases [Abstract] Commitments Under Long-Term Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Rental expense under operating leases Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Minimum rental commitments payable in future years Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Business Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Gross Wholesale finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Retail merchandise Retail Related Inventory, Merchandise Total Inventories Components of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Income tax expense from continuing operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets net classification Deferred Tax Assets Net Classification [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets net classification. Reconciliation of the United States federal statutory rate to the Company's effective tax rate from continuing operations Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Leases Lease Agreements [Member] Customer Lists Customer Lists [Member] Other Other Intangible Assets [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Other intangibles by major classes Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross other intangibles Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Other Intangibles Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Payments to acquire businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization expense, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization expense, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization expense, 2020 (less than) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization expense, 2021 (less than) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization expense, 2022 (less than) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Accrued Provision for Discontinued Operations Accrued Provision for Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Accrued provision for discontinued operations. Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Shares repurchased (in shares) Value of shares repurchased Remaining authorized repurchase amount for stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Total authorized repurchase amount for stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary of stock option activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of the status of the Company's nonvested shares of its employee restricted stock Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] International securities International Equity [Member] International equity. U.S. securities Domestic Equity [Member] Domestic equity. Fixed Income Securities Fixed Income Securities [Member] Cash Equivalents Cash Equivalents [Member] Other (includes receivables and payables) Other Cash Equivalents Includes Receivables And Payables [Member] Other Cash Equivalents Includes Receivables And Payables [Member] Total Pension Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Facility Shutdown Costs Facility Shutdown Cost [Member] Facility shutdown cost. Accrued Provision for Discontinued Operations Accrued Provision For Discontinued Operations [Roll Forward] Accrued Provision For Discontinued Operations [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Additional provision Charges and adjustments, net Discontinued Operation Charges and Adjustments Net Discontinued operation charges and adjustments, net. Balance at end of period Current provision for discontinued operations Total Noncurrent Provision for Discontinued Operations Environmental provision for discontinued operations Environmental Provision for Discontinued Operations Environmental provision for discontinued operations. Current environmental provision for discontinued operations Current Environmental Provision for Discontinued Operations Current environmental provision for discontinued operations. Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Acquisitions, Intangible Assets and Sale of Businesses Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized Tax Benefit – Beginning of Period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Gross Increases (Decreases) – Tax Positions in a Prior Period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases (Decrease) Resulting From Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized tax benefits increases (decrease) resulting from prior period tax positions. Gross Increases (Decreases) – Tax Positions in a Current Period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase (Decrease) Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase (Decrease) Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Lapse of Statutes of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefit – End of Period Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] U.S. Revolver Borrowings US Revolver Borrowings [Member] US Revolver Borrowings [Member] UK Revolver Borrowings Carrying Amount Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Income tax expense from continuing operations Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] U.S. federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) International Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Current Income Tax Expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] U.S. federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) International Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Income Tax Expense – Continuing Operations Property and equipment amortized over the estimated useful life of related assets Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Goodwill Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Other Pension Plan, Postretirement or Supplemental Plans Other Pension Plan, Postretirement or Supplemental Plans [Member] Unrecognized Pension/Postretirement Benefit Costs Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Intra-Entity Transactions Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Intra-Entity Transactions [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Intra-Entity Transactions [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Excluding Intra-Entity Transactions Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Excluding Intra-Entity Transactions [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent, Excluding Intra-Entity Transactions [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] OCI before reclassifications and tax OCI, before Reclassifications, before Tax, Attributable to Parent Amortization of net actuarial loss Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, before Tax, Attributable to Parent Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total other comprehensive loss Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract] Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Legal Proceedings Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Debt securities Debt Securities [Member] Target asset allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] Total long-term debt Current portion Total Noncurrent Portion of Long-Term Debt Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Impairments and Other Charges and Discontinued Operations Asset Impairments and Other Charges and Discontinued Operations [Text Block] Asset Impairments and Other Charges and Discontinued Operations [Text Block] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] United States, Puerto Rico and Canada United States Puerto Rico And Canada [Member] United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. United Kingdom, The Republic of Ireland, and Germany United Kingdom, The Republic Of Ireland, and Germany [Member] United Kingdom, The Republic Of Ireland, and Germany Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Commitments Under Long-Term Leases (Textual) [Abstract] Commitments Under Long-Term Leases (Textual) [Abstract] Commitments under long-term leases. Store leases terms minimum Store Leases Terms Minimum Store leases terms minimum. Store leases terms maximum Store Leases Terms Maximum Store leases terms maximum. Percentage of renewal options Percentage Of Renewal Options Percentage of renewal options. Tenant allowances Tenant Allowances Tenant allowances. Deferred rent Deferred Rent Credit, Noncurrent Summary of stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding Shares, Beginning balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Exercised, Shares Forfeited, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding Shares, Ending balance Exercisable, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Summary of stock option activity, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Beginning balance (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Ending balance (USD per share) Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Allowances on accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accumulated amortization on trademarks Accumulated Amortization Trademark Accumulated amortization on trademarks. Accumulated amortization on other intangibles Common stock, par value (USD per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Shares held in treasury (in shares) Rental expense under operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net [Abstract] Minimum rentals Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Contingent rentals Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals Sublease rentals Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Sublease Rentals Total Rental Expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Minimum rental commitments payable in future years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Later years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Minimum Rental Commitments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Non-Redeemable Employees’ Preferred Stock Non-Redeemable Employees Preferred Stock [Member] Non-Redeemable Employees Preferred Stock [Member] Employees’ Preferred Stock Purchase Accounts Preferred stock transactions Preferred Stock Transactions [Roll Forward] Preferred stock transactions. Beginning balance Other stock conversions Other Preferred Stock Value Other preferred stock value. Ending balance Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Pension liability adjustment net of tax of $2.4 million, $6.3 million and $4.0 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pensions, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pensions, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Postretirement liability adjustment net of tax of $0.4 million for all periods Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive loss Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Deferred tax assets and liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Identified intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Prepaids Deferred Tax Liabilities Prepaids Deferred tax liabilities prepaids. Convertible bonds Deferred Tax Liabilities Convertible Bond Deferred tax liabilities convertible bond. Tax over book depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Options Deferred Tax Assets Options Deferred tax assets options. Deferred rent Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Deferred Rent Pensions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions Expense accruals Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Uniform capitalization costs Deferred Tax Assets Uniform Capitalization Costs Deferred tax assets uniform capitalization costs. Book over tax depreciation Deferred Tax Assets Book Over Tax Depreciation Deferred Tax assets book over tax depreciation. Provisions for discontinued operations and restructurings Deferred Tax Assets Provisions For Discontinued Operations and Restructurings Deferred tax assets provisions for discontinued operations and restructurings. Inventory valuation Deferred Tax Assets Inventory Valuation Deferred tax assets inventory valuation. Tax net operating loss and credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Allowances for bad debts and notes Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Provision for Loan Losses Deferred compensation and restricted stock Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Gross deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred tax asset valuation allowance Deferred tax asset net of valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Plan participants’ contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Plan settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Actuarial (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Benefit Obligation at End of Year Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Actual gain (loss) on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Plan settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Plan participants’ contributions Benefits paid Fair Value of Plan Assets at End of Year Funded Status at End of Year Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Summary of Basic and Diluted Earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Aggregate Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Aggregate [Member] Subordinated serial preferred stock aggregate. Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock $2.30 Series 1 Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Series One [Member] Subordinated serial preferred stock series one member. Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock $4.75 Series 3 Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Series Three [Member] Subordinated serial preferred stock series three member. Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock $4.75 Series 4 Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Series Four [Member] Subordinated serial preferred stock series four. Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Series Six Subordinated Serial Preferred Stock Series Six [Member] Subordinated serial preferred stock series six. $1.50 Subordinated Cumulative Preferred Stock Subordinated Cumulative Preferred Stock [Member] Subordinated cumulative preferred stock. Employees’ Subordinated Convertible Preferred Stock Conversion of Preferred Stock Conversion Of Preferred Stock [Member] Conversion of preferred stock. 2009 Stock Incentive Plan Two Thousand Nine Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Two Thousand Nine Stock Incentive Plan. 2009 Equity Incentive Plan Two Thousand Nine Equity Incentive Plan [Member] Two thousand nine equity incentive plan. Preferred shares authorized (in shares) Preferred stock par value (usd per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Expiration date of rights Expiration Date Of Rights Expiration date of rights. Multiplication value to quarterly dividend per share of common stock for calculation of stated and liquidation values and redemption price Multiplication Value to Quarterly Dividend Per Share of Common Stock Over Previous Eight Quarters for Calculation of Stated and Liquidation Values and Redemption Price Multiplication value to Quarterly dividend per share of common stock for calculation of Stated and liquidation values and redemption price. Stated and liquidation values and redemption price, payment period on average quarterly dividend paid Stated and Liquidation Values and Redemption Price, Payment Period on Average Quarterly Dividend Paid Stated and Liquidation Values and Redemption Price, Payment Period on Average Quarterly Dividend Paid Stated and liquidation values and redemption price per share dividend paid on common stock plus accumulated dividends (usd per share) Stated And Liquidation Values And Redemption Price Per Share Dividend Paid On Common Stock Plus Accumulated Dividends Stated and liquidation values and redemption price per share dividend paid on common stock plus accumulated dividends. Number of votes for each outstanding share Number of Vote for Each Outstanding Share Number of Vote for each outstanding Share. Common shares reserved Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Common stock issued for exercise of stock options Weighted average exercise price of common stock (USD per share) Common stock issued as restricted shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Employee stock purchase plan, shares Weighted average market price of common stock issued under stock option (USD per share) Weighted Average Market Price of Common Stock Issued Under Stock Option Weighted average market price of common stock issued under stock option. Employee stock purchase plan Number of common stock issued to directors for no consideration Number Of Common Stock Issued To Directors Number of common stock issued to directors. Common stock withheld for taxes on restricted stock vested Common Stock Withheld For Taxes On Restricted Stock Vested Common stock withheld for taxes on restricted stock vested. Restricted stock forfeited during the year Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeited Common stock issued in conversion of debentures Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Common stock shares repurchased and retired Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Weighted average price of common stock retired and repurchase (USD per share) weighted Average Price of Common Stock Retired and Repurchase Weighted average price of common stock retired and repurchase. Common stock value repurchased and retired Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Percentage loan cap (equal or greater than 25%) Percentage Loan Cap Percentage loan cap. Minimum percentage loan cap (equal or greater than 15%) Minimum Percentage Loan Cap Minimum percentage loan cap. Proforma fixed charge coverage ratio (equal or greater than 1.0) Pro Forma Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Pro Forma Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Cash dividends on preferred stock Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five 2022-2026 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Defined Contribution Plan Type [Axis] Defined Contribution Plan Type [Axis] Defined Contribution Plan Type [Domain] Defined Contribution Plan Type [Domain] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Domestic Equity International Equity Cash Investments Cash Investments [Member] Cash investments. Participant's compensation Participant Compensation Participant compensation. Participant compensation in excess of social security taxable wage base Participant Compensation In Excess Of Social Security Taxable Wage Base participant compensation in excess of Social Security taxable wage base. Interest calculated on account balance of each active participant Interest Calculated On Account Balance Of Each Active Participant Interest calculated on account balance of each active participant. Amount other than interest calculated on account balance of each active participant Amount Other Than Interest Calculated On Account Balance Of Each Active Participant Amount other than interest calculated on account balance of each active participant. Amount with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant Amount With Interest Calculated On Account Balance Of Each Inactive Participant Amount with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant. Treasury rate with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant Treasury Rate With Interest Calculated On Account Balance Of Each Inactive Participant Treasury rate with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant. Year with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant Year With Interest Calculated On Account Balance Of Each Inactive Participant Year with interest calculated on account balance of each inactive participant. Year only with interest calculated under frozen plan for each participant's cash balance plan account Year Only With Interest Calculated Under Frozen Plan For Each Participants Cash Balance Plan Account Year only with interest calculated under frozen plan for each participants cash balance plan account. Treasury rate only with interest calculated under frozen plan for each participant's cash balance plan account Treasury Rate Only With Interest Calculated Under Frozen Plan For Each Participants Cash Balance Plan Account Treasury rate only with interest calculated under frozen plan for each participants cash balance plan account. Age under health care plan for early retirees eligible for benefits Age Under Health Care Plan For Early Retirees Eligible For Benefits Age under health care plan for early retirees eligible for benefits. Estimated net loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Estimated prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Increase in rate increased accumulated benefit obligation Increase In Rate Increased Accumulated Benefit Obligation Increase In Rate Increased Accumulated Benefit Obligation Increase in rate increased projected benefit obligation Increase In Rate Increased Projected Benefit Obligation Increase In Rate Increased Projected Benefit Obligation Decrease in rate increased accumulated benefit obligation Decrease In Rate Increased Accumulated Benefit Obligation Decrease in rate increased accumulated benefit obligation. Decrease in rate increased projected benefit obligation Decrease In Rate Increased Projected Benefit Obligation Decrease in rate increased projected benefit obligation. Maintained range of actual to target asset allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Maintained Range of Actual to Target Asset Allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Maintained Range of Actual to Target Asset Allocation Target allocations Defined Benefit Plan Target Allocation Percentage Of Assets Defined benefit plan target allocation percentage of assets. Minimum expected funded percentage Defined Benefit Plan, Minimum Expected Funded Percentage Defined Benefit Plan, Minimum Expected Funded Percentage Minimum year of service of employee related to savings plan Minimum Year Of Service Of Employee Related To Savings Plan Minimum year of service of employee related to savings plan. Minimum year of age of employee related to savings plan Minimum Year Of Age Of Employee Related To Savings Plan Minimum year of age of employee related to savings plan. Percent of matching contribution by employer Percent Of Matching Contribution By Employer Percent of matching contribution by employer. Maximum employer contribution up to a specified percentage of salary Maximum Employer Contribution Up To A Specified Percentage Of Salary Maximum employer contribution up to a specified percentage of salary. Percent of matching contribution by employer up to a specified percentage of salary Percent Of Matching Contribution By Employer Up To A Specified Percentage Of Salary Percent of matching contribution by employer up to a specified percentage of salary. Another maximum employer contribution up to specified percentage of salary Another Maximum Employer Contribution Up To Specified Percentage Of Salary Another maximum employer contribution up to specified percentage of salary. Maximum percentage of salary up to which additional contribution made by employer Maximum Percentage Of Salary Up To Which Additional Contribution Made By Employer Maximum Percentage Of Salary Up To Which Additional Contribution Made By Employer Contribution expense to company for matching program Contribution Expense To Company For Matching Program Contribution expense to company for matching program.