ARO Liquidation (AROP) 10-K 30 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Mar. 23, 2015	Aug. 01, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	AEROPOSTALE INC
Entity Central Index Key	1168213
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-30
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$252,208
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		79,163,821
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Jan-15

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$151,750	$106,517
Merchandise inventory	130,474	172,311
Income taxes receivable and prepaid income taxes	18,306	50,388
Prepaid rent	18,821	21,116
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	29,936	26,289
Total current assets	349,287	376,621
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, net	130,109	235,401
Goodwill	13,919	13,919
Intangible assets, net	8,809	14,661
Other assets	10,065	7,039
TOTAL ASSETS	512,189	647,641
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	88,289	138,245
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	110,560	102,116
Total current liabilities	198,849	240,361
Indebtedness to related party	138,540	0
Non-current liabilities	81,248	126,588
Commitments and contingent liabilities (See Notes 2, 3, 4, 10, 12, 13 and 15)
Stockholders’ Equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 5,000 shares authorized; 1 and 0 shares issued or outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 200,000 shares authorized; 79,640 and 78,616 shares issued	796	786
Additional paid-in capital	247,775	231,202
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	3,098	-1,183
Accumulated (deficit) earnings	-154,965	51,493
Treasury stock at cost; 498 and 118 shares	-3,152	-1,606
Total stockholders’ equity	93,552	280,692
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$512,189	$647,641

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
Stockholders’ Equity:
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	1,000	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	1,000	0
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	79,640,000	78,616,000
Treasury stock, shares at cost	498,000	118,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015		Feb. 01, 2014		Feb. 02, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$1,838,663		$2,090,902		$2,386,178
Cost of sales (includes certain buying, occupancy and warehousing expenses)	1,502,225	[1]	1,733,539	[1]	1,796,821	[1]
Gross profit	336,438		357,363		589,357
Selling, general and administrative expenses	508,611		542,569		529,846
Restructuring charges	40,356		0		0
Intangible asset impairment	5,100		0		0
Reversal of contingent consideration	-4,491		0		0
(Loss) income from operations	-213,138		-185,206		59,511
Interest expense, net	8,783	[2]	913	[2]	485	[2]
(Loss) income before income taxes	-221,921		-186,119		59,026
Income tax (benefit) provision	-15,463		-44,288		24,103
Net (loss) income	($206,458)		($141,831)		$34,923
Basic (loss) earnings per share (in dollars per share)	($2.62)		($1.81)		$0.44
Diluted (loss) earnings per share (in dollars per share)	($2.62)		($1.81)		$0.43
Weighted average basic shares	78,862		78,455		80,069
Weighted average diluted shares	78,862		78,455		80,494
[1]	Includes cost of merchandise from related party of $1.3 million during fiscal 2014.
[2]	Includes interest expense to related party of $6.8 million during fiscal 2014.

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015
Related party costs	$1.30
Loan Agreement
Related party interest expense	$6.80

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net (loss) income	($206,458)	($141,831)	$34,923
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Pension liability, net of income taxes of $0, $1,215 and $345, respectively	3,944	534	817
Foreign currency translation adjustment (See Note 6)	337	-1,907	212
Other comprehensive income (loss)	4,281	-1,373	1,029
Comprehensive (loss) income	($202,177)	($143,204)	$35,952

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Tax on pension liability	$0	$1,215	$345

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_STO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Preferred Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Treasury Stock, at Cost	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Accumulated (Deficit) Earnings
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
BALANCE at Jan. 28, 2012	$409,434	$913	$0	$206,670	($256,589)	($839)	$459,279
BALANCE (in shares) at Jan. 28, 2012		91,259,000	0		-10,429,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net (loss) income	34,923						34,923
Stock options exercised (in shares)		50,000
Stock options exercised	724			724
Pension liability, net of tax	817					817
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	617			617
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	-3,000,000				-3,000,000
Repurchase of common stock	-40,842				-40,842
Stock-based compensation	8,056			8,056
Foreign currency translation adjustment	212					212
Vesting of stock (in shares)		566,000			-167,000
Vesting of stock	-3,577	6			-3,583
Retirement of treasury stock (in shares)		-13,596,000			13,596,000
Retirement of treasury stock	0	-136			301,014		-300,878
BALANCE at Feb. 02, 2013	410,364	783	0	216,067	0	190	193,324
BALANCE (in shares) at Feb. 02, 2013		78,279,000	0		0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net (loss) income	-141,831						-141,831
Stock options exercised (in shares)		21,000
Stock options exercised	219			219
Pension liability, net of tax	534					534
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	-1,404			-1,404
Stock-based compensation	16,320			16,320
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-1,907					-1,907
Vesting of stock (in shares)		316,000			-118,000
Vesting of stock	-1,603	3			-1,606
BALANCE at Feb. 01, 2014	280,692	786	0	231,202	-1,606	-1,183	51,493
BALANCE (in shares) at Feb. 01, 2014		78,616,000	0		-118,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net (loss) income	-206,458						-206,458
Stock options exercised (in shares)	0
Pension liability, net of tax	3,944					3,944
Issuance of preferred stock (shares)			1,000
Issuance of preferred stock	5,654			5,654
Stock-based compensation	10,291			10,291
Foreign currency translation adjustment	337					337
Modification of liability awards	638			638
Vesting of stock (in shares)		1,024,000			-380,000
Vesting of stock	-1,546	10		-10	-1,546
BALANCE at Jan. 31, 2015	$93,552	$796	$0	$247,775	($3,152)	$3,098	($154,965)
BALANCE (in shares) at Jan. 31, 2015		79,640,000	1,000		-498,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_STO1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Tax on pension liability	$0	$1,215	$345

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net (loss) income	($206,458)	($141,831)	$34,923
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	50,687	64,386	65,780
Asset impairment charges	82,325	46,070	32,633
Stock-based compensation	14,775	18,078	8,056
Amortization of tenant allowances	-26,733	-13,499	-13,118
Amortization of deferred rent expense	-7,865	2,427	4,314
Amortization of debt discount/premium and deferred financing fees	7,994	0	0
Pension expense	1,731	2,945	2,376
Subsequent re-measurement of contingent consideration	-4,491	0	0
Deferred income taxes	4,404	-1,760	-8,860
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	0	-617
Other	-486	397	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Merchandise inventory	40,808	-17,944	11,256
Prepaid taxes and other assets	30,429	-43,715	-4,645
Accounts payable	-49,482	48,909	-13,430
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	6,652	-2,836	26,143
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	-55,710	-38,373	144,811
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc.	0	-381	-25,175
Capital expenditures	-23,837	-84,089	-72,309
Change in restricted cash	-2,007	0	0
Net cash used in investing activities	-25,844	-84,470	-97,484
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of treasury stock	-1,546	-1,606	-40,842
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	0	219	724
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	0	617
Borrowings under revolving credit facility	75,500	0	0
Repayments under revolving credit facility	-75,500	0	0
Net proceeds from Sycamore transaction	137,648	0	0
Financing fees related to Sycamore transaction and revolving credit facility	-6,852	0	0
Contingent consideration payment	-1,531	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	127,719	-1,387	-39,501
Effect of exchange rate changes	-932	-754	-37
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	45,233	-124,984	7,789
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	106,517	231,501	223,712
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	151,750	106,517	231,501
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
Income taxes paid	2,491	12,836	21,009
Accruals related to purchases of property and equipment	1,196	2,460	2,030
Contingent and additional consideration liability related to GoJane acquisition	$0	$0	$7,400

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Organization
	References to the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our” means Aéropostale, Inc. and its subsidiaries, except as expressly indicated or unless the context otherwise requires. We are a primarily mall-based, specialty retailer of casual apparel and accessories, principally targeting 14 to 17 year-old young women and men through our Aéropostale stores and 4 to 12 year-olds through our P.S. from Aéropostale stores.  As of January 31, 2015, we operated 860 stores, consisting of 773 Aéropostale stores in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, 61 Aéropostale stores in Canada, as well as 26 P.S. from Aéropostale stores in 12 states.  In addition, pursuant to various licensing agreements, our licensees operated 239 Aéropostale and P.S. from Aéropostale locations in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Latin America as of January 31, 2015.
	In November 2012, we acquired substantially all of the assets of online women's fashion footwear and apparel retailer GoJane.com, Inc. (“GoJane”). Based in Ontario, California, GoJane focuses primarily on fashion footwear, with a select offering of contemporary apparel and other accessories. See Note 5 for additional information on the acquisition of GoJane.
	Basis of Consolidation and Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Aéropostale, Inc. and its subsidiaries.  All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Fiscal Year
	Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. Fiscal 2014 was the 52-week period ended January 31, 2015, fiscal 2013 was the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 and fiscal 2012 was the 53-week period ended February 2, 2013. Fiscal 2015 will be the 52-week period ending January 30, 2016.
	Our Business and Liquidity
	Declining mall traffic, a highly promotional and competitive teen retail environment and a shift in customer demand away from logo-based product have contributed to unfavorable financial performance.  We have experienced declining store sales and incurred net losses from operations in fiscal 2014 and 2013. This has led to cash outflows from operations of $55.7 million in fiscal 2014 and $38.4 million in fiscal 2013.  In fiscal 2014, we took steps to enhance our liquidity position including increasing the availability under our revolving credit facility (refer to Note 10), obtaining financing from affiliates of Sycamore Partners, (refer to note 2), restructuring our corporate headquarters and P.S. from Aéropostale business, closing under-performing Aéropostale stores (refer to Note 3) and various other strategic actions directed toward improving our sales and margin. Our ability to fund operations and capital expenditures in the future will be dependent on our ability to generate cash from operations, maintain or improve margins, decrease significantly the rate of decline in store sales and to borrow funds available under our loan agreements. Our ability to borrow funds is dependent, in part, on our ability to meet all covenants, including a financial covenant in our loan agreement with affiliates of Sycamore Partners which requires a minimum liquidity coverage of $70.0 million of cash and availability under the revolving credit facility. At January 31, 2015, we had cash and cash equivalents of $151.8 million, other working capital of $150.4 million and no borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility with availability of $116.8 million. Our cash on hand and availability under the revolving credit facility exceeded the $70.0 million minimum availability covenant by $198.6 million. If we do not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to fund our working capital needs and planned capital expenditures, and our cash reserves are depleted, we may need to take various further actions, such as down-sizing and/or eliminating certain operations, which could include exit costs, or reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic investments or other actions. We believe that cash on hand and availability under our revolving credit facility will be sufficient to fund operations and cash flow requirements for fiscal 2015. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve our strategic initiatives or obtain additional funding on favorable terms in the future which would have a significant adverse effect on our operations.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated.
	The most significant estimates made by management include those made in the areas of merchandise inventory valuation, impairment analysis of long-lived assets, exit cost obligations, impairment analysis of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and income taxes. Management periodically evaluates estimates used in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements for continued reasonableness. Appropriate adjustments, if any, to the estimates used are made prospectively based on such periodic evaluations.
	Concentration of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents. We invest our excess cash in demand deposits and money market funds that are classified as cash equivalents.  We have established guidelines that relate to credit quality, diversification and maturity and that limit exposure to any one issuer of securities.
	During fiscal 2014 and 2013, we sourced approximately 81% and 83%, respectively, of our merchandise from our top five merchandise vendors.  The loss of any of these sources could adversely impact our ability to operate our business.
	Seasonality
	Our business is highly seasonal and historically, we have realized a significant portion of our sales and cash flow in the second half of the fiscal year, attributable to the impact of the back-to-school selling season in the third quarter and the holiday selling season in the fourth quarter. Additionally, working capital requirements fluctuate during the year, increasing in mid-summer in anticipation of the third and fourth quarters.
	Translation of Foreign Currency Financial Statements and Foreign Currency Transactions
	The financial statements of our Canadian subsidiary have been translated into United States dollars by translating balance sheet accounts at the year-end exchange rate and statement of operations accounts at the average exchange rates for the year. Foreign currency translation gains and losses are reflected in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheet in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to a permanent investment in our subsidiary in Canada.  The balance of the unrealized foreign currency translation adjustment included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) was income of $1.2 million as of January 31, 2015 compared to $0.8 million as of February 1, 2014.  Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are charged or credited to earnings as incurred.
	Cash Equivalents
	We include credit card receivables and all short-term investments that qualify as cash equivalents with an original maturity of three months or less in cash and cash equivalents.
	Fair Value Measurements
	We follow the guidance in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement Disclosures” (“ASC 820”) as it relates to financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities. Our non-financial assets, which include fixtures, equipment and improvements and intangible assets, are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  However, if certain triggering events occur, or if an impairment test is required and we are required to evaluate the non-financial asset for impairment, we would record an impairment charge if the carrying value of the non-financial asset exceeds its fair value. (See Note 4 for a further discussion).
	We currently have one financial liability measured at fair value. See Note 4 for fair value measurements related to GoJane liabilities. ASC 820 prioritizes inputs used in measuring fair value into a hierarchy of three levels: Level 1—quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2—inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3—unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing.
	Merchandise Inventory
	Merchandise inventory consists of finished goods and is valued utilizing the cost method at the lower of cost or market determined on a weighted average basis. Merchandise inventory includes warehousing, freight, merchandise and design costs as an inventory product cost. We make certain assumptions regarding future demand and net realizable selling price in order to assess that our inventory is recorded properly at the lower of cost or market. These assumptions are based on both historical experience and current information. We recorded adjustments to reduce the carrying value of inventory to the lower of cost or market of $15.5 million as of January 31, 2015 and $27.6 million as of February 1, 2014.
	Vendor Rebates
	We receive vendor rebates from certain merchandise suppliers. The vendor rebates are earned as we receive merchandise from the suppliers and are computed at an agreed upon percentage of the purchase amount. Vendor rebates are recorded as a reduction of merchandise inventory and are then recognized as a reduction of cost of sales when the related inventory is sold. Vendor rebates recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of merchandise inventory were $0.5 million as of January 31, 2015 and $0.9 million as of February 1, 2014. Vendor rebates recorded as a reduction of cost of sales were $6.1 million for fiscal 2014, $9.7 million for fiscal 2013, and $10.1 million for fiscal 2012.
	Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements
	Fixtures, equipment and improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided for by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
	Fixtures and equipment	10 years
	Leasehold improvements	Lesser of useful lives or lease term
	Computer equipment	5 years
	Software	3 years
	Goodwill and intangible assets
	We estimate and record intangible assets, which primarily consists of trademarks and customer relationships at fair value at the acquisition date.  The fair value of these intangible assets is estimated based on management's assessment, considering independent third party appraisals, as warranted.  Goodwill represents the excess of purchase consideration for an acquired entity over the fair value amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination.
	Goodwill and trademarks with an indefinite life are not amortized, but instead are assessed for impairment at least annually (on the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter) based on comparisons of their respective fair values to their carrying values. Additionally, goodwill and intangible assets are tested for impairment if an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. We test goodwill at the reporting unit level. In connection with the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of GoJane.com, Inc. on November 13, 2012, we allocated $13.9 million of the purchase price to goodwill, which was also its carrying value as of January 31, 2015. A reporting unit is an operating segment for which discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by segment management. We have deemed the GoJane operating segment to be the reporting unit at which goodwill is tested for GoJane.
	ASU No. 2011-08, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Goodwill for Impairment” (“ASU 2011-08”) amended the rules for testing goodwill for impairment and provided an entity with the option to first assess qualitative factors for each reporting unit to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The optional qualitative assessment can be performed at the discretion of management for any or all of the reporting units in any given period. In preparing a qualitative analysis for each of our reporting units, we assess events and circumstances that may impact the fair value and the carrying amount of each reporting unit. The identification of relevant events and circumstances and how these may impact a reporting unit’s fair value or carrying amount involve significant judgments and assumptions. For each reporting unit, we compare its current carrying value as of the testing date to its most recent fair value. Based upon the differential noted, we may decide to perform the first step of the quantitative impairment test or to continue with the qualitative assessment by analyzing whether changes in the business and/or operating environment have occurred since the most recent fair value obtained that may impact this relationship. This assessment includes, but is not limited to, the identification of macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations that currently impact the reporting unit’s operating environment, as well as cost factors, overall financial performance including actual and projected operating results and peer group share price trends. We examine the positive and negative influences of each relevant factor on the reporting unit’s fair value and qualitatively assess the impact that such factors (when considered both individually and in the aggregate) would have on a reporting unit’s fair value since the last full valuation was performed. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that the potential impact of the positive and negative factors do not indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we will conclude that goodwill is not impaired and performance of the two-step quantitative impairment test is not required.
	When quantitatively evaluating goodwill for impairment, we determine the current fair value of the reporting unit by blending results from the market multiples approach and the income approach. These valuation approaches consider a number of factors that include, but are not limited to, expected future cash flows, growth rates, discount rates, and comparable multiples from publicly-traded companies in our industry and require us to make certain assumptions and estimates regarding industry economic factors and future profitability of our business. It is our policy to conduct impairment testing based on our most current business plans, projected future revenues and cash flows, which reflect changes we anticipate in the economy and the industry. The cash flows are based on five-year financial forecasts developed internally by management and are discounted to a present value using discount rates that properly account for the risk and nature of the reporting unit’s cash flows and the rates of return market participants would require to invest their capital in our reporting unit. The outcome of the market multiples and income approaches are heavily dependent upon the aforementioned projections. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, we would then calculate the implied fair value of our reporting unit’s goodwill as compared to its carrying value to determine the appropriate impairment charge, if any. To calculate the implied fair value of goodwill the Company would allocate the reporting unit’s fair value to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical scenario that faithfully represents an acquisition of the reporting unit in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is less than its carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment charge, not to exceed the balance of goodwill.
	For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 goodwill and indefinite lived intangible asset impairment testing, management updated the five-year financial forecasts for fiscal 2015 through fiscal 2019, which contained declines in the projected financial performance of the GoJane reporting unit compared to the projections used in the impairment tests of prior years. The decrease in financial projections was primarily due to the fiscal 2014 decline in operating results, due in large part to a lack of new fashion trends and increased online competition in the target market. This reduction in revenues and cash flows forecasted for the GoJane reporting unit warranted performing the two-step quantitative test. Upon completing the step one quantitative impairment test, it was determined that the fair value exceeded the carrying value of the reporting unit and accordingly, no impairment charge was recorded. The fair value estimates incorporated in step one of the quantitative assessment were primarily based on third party appraisals, the market approach and the income approach and specifically the relief from royalty method in regard to certain intangible assets. This appraisal incorporated a significant amount of judgment on the part of the third party valuation specialists regarding appropriate comparable companies and assessments of current market conditions, and the income approach valuations incorporated significant estimates and assumptions made by management including those relating to projected long-term rates of revenue and margin growth, and profitability.
	The estimated fair value of the GoJane reporting unit exceeded its carrying value at the date of testing by 9%. Given the current competitive environment and the uncertainties inherent in this business, there can be no assurance that the estimates and assumptions regarding the future revenue growth and profitability, made for purposes of our goodwill impairment testing, will prove to be accurate predictions of the future. If our assumptions of the GoJane reporting unit are not achieved, we may be required to record goodwill impairment charges in future periods, whether in connection with our next annual impairment testing in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, or on an interim basis, if any triggering event occurs outside of the quarter when we regularly perform our annual goodwill impairment test.
	In connection with the acquisitions of the assets of GoJane, we allocated $11.4 million of the purchase price to the trademarks. A trademark is considered impaired if the estimated fair value of the trademark is less than the carrying amount. If a trademark is considered impaired, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the trademark. The fair value of the trademarks is determined using an independent third party valuation specialist. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we completed our annual impairment review of the trademarks and as a result, we recognized $5.1 million of impairment charges because the fair value of the GoJane trademarks did not exceed its carrying amount as of the date of our annual impairment review. As of January 31, 2015, the carrying value of the trademarks was written down to $6.3 million. As noted above, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates and projections of future operating performance used in the calculations, we may be required to record further impairment charges.
	Evaluation for Long-Lived Asset Impairment
	We periodically evaluate the need to recognize impairment losses relating to long-lived assets in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment” (“ASC 360”).  Long-lived assets are evaluated for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset may have been impaired. In evaluating an asset for recoverability, we estimate the future undiscounted net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If the cumulative undiscounted net cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, the net cash flows are then discounted at the Company’s weighted average cost of capital and compared to the carrying value of the assets. The result is a write down of the asset to fair value by recording an impairment charge.  The estimation of fair value is measured by discounting expected future net cash flows.   The recoverability assessment related to store-level assets requires judgments and estimates of future revenues, gross margin rates, store expenses and the weighted average cost of capital.  We base these estimates upon our past and expected future performance.  We believe our estimates are appropriate in light of current market conditions.  However, actual results may differ materially from those estimated which could result in additional impairments of long-lived assets in future periods, and could have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements (See Note 4 for a further discussion).
	Pre-Opening Expenses
	New store pre-opening costs are expensed as they are incurred.
	Exit Cost Obligations
	When stores under long-term leases close, we record a liability at fair value for the future minimum lease payments and related ancillary costs, net of estimated future sublease recoveries. Fair value is determined by estimating net future cash flows and discounting them using a risk-adjusted rate of interest. Reserve estimates and related assumptions are updated on a quarterly basis. If the lease is subsequently terminated, the termination cost, if any, is recorded and the remaining exit cost obligation is reversed at the date of termination.
	Leases
	Our store operating leases typically provide for fixed non-contingent rent escalations. Rent payments under our store leases typically commence when the store opens.  These leases include a pre-opening period that allows us to take possession of the property to fixture and merchandise the store. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis over the non-cancelable term of each individual underlying lease, commencing when we take possession of the property (see Note 15 for further information regarding leases).
	In addition, most store leases require us to pay additional rent based on specified percentages of sales, after we achieve specified annual sales thresholds. We use store sales trends to estimate and record liabilities for these additional rent obligations during interim periods. Most of our store leases entitle us to receive tenant allowances from our landlords. We record these tenant allowances as a deferred rent liability, which we amortize as a reduction of rent expense over the non-cancelable term of each underlying lease.
	Revenue Recognition
	Sales revenue is recognized at the “point of sale” in our stores and at the time our e-commerce customers take possession of merchandise. Allowances for sales returns are recorded as a reduction of net sales in the periods in which the related sales are recognized.  Also included in sales revenue is shipping revenue from our e-commerce customers.  Sales tax collected from customers is excluded from revenue and is included in accrued expenses on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Revenue from international licensing arrangements is recognized when earned in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreement, generally based upon the greater of the contractually earned or guaranteed minimum royalty levels.  We recorded revenue related to international licensing arrangements in net sales of $34.7 million in fiscal 2014, $21.5 million in fiscal 2013 and $7.2 million in fiscal 2012. Additionally, we recorded net sales related to gift card breakage income of $4.9 million in fiscal 2014, $5.8 million in fiscal 2013 and $3.7 million in fiscal 2012.
	Gift Cards
	We sell gift cards to our customers in our retail stores, through our websites and through select third parties. We do not charge administrative fees on unused gift cards and our gift cards do not have an expiration date.  Revenue is not recorded on the purchase of gift cards.  A current liability is recorded upon purchase and revenue is recognized when the gift card or store credits are redeemed for merchandise.  We also recognize breakage income for the portion of gift cards estimated to be unredeemed.  We have relieved our legal obligation to escheat the value of unredeemed gift cards to the relevant jurisdiction.  We therefore determined that the likelihood of certain gift cards being redeemed by the customer was remote, based upon historical redemption patterns of gift cards.  For those gift cards that we determined redemption to be remote, we reversed our liability and recorded gift card breakage income in net sales.
	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales includes costs related to merchandise sold, including inventory valuation adjustments, distribution and warehousing, freight from the distribution center to the stores, shipping and handling costs, payroll for our design, buying and merchandising departments and occupancy costs. Occupancy costs include rent, contingent rents, common area maintenance, real estate taxes, utilities, repairs and maintenance, depreciation and amortization and impairment charges.
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses, or “SG&A”, include costs related to selling expenses, store management and corporate expenses such as payroll and employee benefits, marketing expenses, employment taxes, information technology maintenance costs and expenses, insurance and legal expenses, e-commerce transaction related expenses, store pre-opening costs and other corporate level expenses. Store pre-opening costs include store level payroll, grand opening event marketing, travel, supplies and other store pre-opening expenses.
	Self-Insurance
	We self-insure our workers compensation claims and our employee medical benefits. The recorded liabilities for these obligations are calculated primarily using historical experience and current information. The liabilities include amounts for actual claims and estimated claims incurred but not yet reported.  Self-insurance liabilities were $5.7 million at January 31, 2015 and $5.2 million at February 1, 2014.  We paid workers compensation claims of $0.9 million in fiscal 2014, $0.9 million in fiscal 2013 and $1.0 million in fiscal 2012.  In addition, we paid employee medical claims of $15.4 million in fiscal 2014, $16.2 million in fiscal 2013 and $14.1 million in fiscal 2012.
	Retirement Benefit Plans
	Our retirement benefit plan costs are accounted for using actuarial valuations required by FASB ASC Topic 715 “Compensation – Retirement Benefits” (“ASC 715”).  ASC 715 requires an entity to recognize the funded status of its defined pension plans on the balance sheet and to recognize changes in the funded status that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, within other comprehensive (loss) income, net of income taxes (see Note 13 for a further discussion).
Marketing Costs
Marketing costs, which include e-commerce, print, radio and other media advertising, are expensed at the point of first broadcast or distribution, and were $26.7 million in fiscal 2014, $22.4 million in fiscal 2013, and $17.5 million in fiscal 2012.
Stock-Based Compensation
We follow the provisions from the FASB ASC Topic 718 “Compensation – Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718”). Under such guidance, all forms of share-based payment to employees and directors, including stock options, must be treated as compensation and recognized in the statements of operations (see Note 12 for a further discussion).
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”).  Under ASC 740, income taxes are recognized for the amount of taxes payable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequence of events that have been recognized differently in the financial statements than for tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established using statutory tax rates and are adjusted for tax rate changes.
ASC 740 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an entity’s financial statements and requires companies to determine whether it is “more likely than not” that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authorities before any part of the benefit can be recorded in the financial statements. For those tax positions where it is not “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit is recognized. Where applicable, associated interest and penalties are also recorded.  Interest and penalties, if any, are recorded within the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and are classified on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with the related liability for uncertain tax contingency liabilities.
A valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  In determining the need for a valuation allowance, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including historical operating results, forecasted future earnings, taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which we operate, tax planning strategies and other relevant factors.  The need for and the amount of valuation allowances can change in future periods if operating results and projections change significantly.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications were made to prior year amounts to conform to the current period presentation, specifically we condensed the amortization of intangible assets into depreciation and amortization in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013.
Recent Accounting Developments
In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern ("ASU 2014-15"). Under ASU 2014-15, management is required to perform interim and annual assessments of an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued. An entity must provide certain disclosures if “conditions or events raise substantial doubt about [the] entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.” The new standard applies to all entities and is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and interim periods thereafter, with early adoption permitted. Management is still assessing the impact of the adoption to our consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASU 2014-09"). It outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that “an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.” ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. Management is still assessing the impact of the adoption to our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity ("ASU 2014-08"). Under ASU 2014-08, only disposals that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the entity’s results and operations would qualify as discontinued operations. In addition, the ASU expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation, requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components and defines “discontinued operations” similarly to how it is defined under International Financial Reporting Standards 5, Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations. The ASU is effective prospectively for all disposals (except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date) or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We have elected to early adopt this guidance effective as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014. See Note 3 for the impact of the adoption.
In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update 2013-11, Income Taxes ("ASU 2013-11") which requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, with certain exceptions. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, with early adoption permitted. This guidance became effective prospectively for the Company in the first quarter of 2014. The adoption did not have a material impact to the overall tax provision of Aéropostale.

Closing_of_1500_Million_Financ

Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Parties	Related Parties
	On May 23, 2014, we entered into a strategic sourcing relationship with an affiliate of Sycamore Partners, which included $150.0 million in secured credit facilities. As of May 23, 2014 and December 31, 2014, Lemur LLC, an affiliate of Sycamore Partners owned approximately 8% of our outstanding common stock. Concurrent with, and as a condition to, entering into the Loan Agreement, we issued 1,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock to affiliates of Sycamore Partner at an aggregate offer price of $100 thousand. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock is convertible at any time at the option of the holder on or prior to May 23, 2024 into shares of common stock at an initial conversion rate of 3,932.018 for each share of Series B Preferred Stock. The common stock underlying the Series B Preferred Stock represents 5% of our issued and outstanding common stock as of May 23, 2014 (see Note 2 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion). Stefan Kaluzny, a managing director at Sycamore Partners, joined our Board of Directors upon the closing of this transaction. Sycamore Partners and its affiliates and Mr. Kaluzny are considered related parties due to the agreements described above combined with their ownership interest in us. In addition to the related party transactions presented on the Consolidated Statement of Operations during fiscal 2014, we had the following transactions with these related parties:
	•	Merchandise purchased from an affiliate of Sycamore Partners of $4.0 million that was included in our merchandise inventories as of January 31, 2015,
	•Accounts payable of $4.3 million to an affiliate of Sycamore Partners as of January 31, 2015,
	•Payments of $1.0 million to an affiliate of Sycamore Partners during fiscal 2014, and
	Additionally, Scopia Capital Management, LLC owned approximately 12.5% of our common stock and Fidelity Management & Research Company owned approximately 10.5% of our common stock as of December 31, 2014. Both are considered related parties due to their ownership interest in us. We did not have any transactions with either of these related parties during fiscal 2014.
Sycamore Transaction
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Parties	Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction
	On May 23, 2014, we entered into (i) a Loan and Security Agreement (the "Loan Agreement") with affiliates of Sycamore Partners, (ii) a Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Stock Purchase Agreement") with Aero Investors LLC, an affiliate of Sycamore Partners for the purchase of 1,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company, $0.01 par value (the "Series B Preferred Stock") and (iii) an Investor Rights Agreement with Sycamore Partners ("Sycamore Transaction").
	As of May 23, 2014 and December 31, 2014, Lemur LLC, an affiliate of Sycamore Partners, owned approximately 8% of our outstanding common stock. Stefan Kaluzny, a managing director at Sycamore Partners, joined our Board of Directors upon the closing of this transaction. In addition to Mr. Kaluzny, Sycamore Partners received the right to appoint one additional member to our Board, and appointed Julian R. Geiger, who subsequently agreed to become our CEO on August 18, 2014. Additionally a third independent appointee was mutually agreed upon by Sycamore Partners and us. Sycamore Partners and its affiliates and Mr. Kaluzny are considered related parties due to their ownership interest in us (see Note 18 for a further discussion).
	The Loan Agreement made term loans available to us in the principal amount of $150.0 million, consisting of two tranches: a five-year $100.0 million term loan facility (the "Tranche A Loan") and a 10-year $50.0 million term loan facility (the "Tranche B Loan" and, together with the Tranche A Loan, the "Term Loans").
	Simultaneously with entering into the Loan Agreement, we amended our existing revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. to allow for the incurrence of the additional debt under the Loan Agreement.
	The accounting guidance related to multiple deliverables in an arrangement provides direction on determining if separate contracts should be evaluated as a single arrangement and if an arrangement involves a single unit of accounting or separate units of accounting. We determined that there were four units of accounting or elements of the arrangement which included Tranche A Loan, Tranche B Loan, Series B convertible preferred stock and the Sourcing Agreement (as hereinafter defined). We allocated the initial value based on the relative fair values of each element in the transaction. We estimated the fair values of Tranche A Loan and Tranche B Loan using the discounted cash flow method. Under this method, the projected interest and principal payments are projected through the life of each loan. These cash flows are then discounted to the present value at an appropriate market-derived discount rate, taking into account market yields at the date of issuance and an assessment of the credit rating applicable to us based on the consideration of various credit metrics along with the terms of each loan (such as duration, coupon rate, etc.) to derive an indication of fair value. These instruments are classified as a Level 3 measurement, as they are not publicly traded and therefore, we are unable to obtain quoted market prices. The Series B Preferred Stock represents a convertible security that can be exchanged for shares of Company common stock upon the payment of a cash conversion price of $7.25 per common share equivalent.  Effectively, the Series B Preferred Stock has the characteristic of a warrant as each share represents an option to purchase 3,932.018 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $7.25 per common share and there is no dividend or liquidation preference associated with the Series B Preferred Stock. Accordingly, the Black-Scholes model was used to determine the fair value of the Convertible Shares with an expected life of 10 years, a risk free interest rate of 2.54% and expected volatility of 50%. The Sourcing Agreement was determined to be at fair value and therefore no proceeds were allocated to the agreement.
	On May 23, 2014, the Term Loans were disbursed in full and we received net proceeds of $137.6 million from affiliates of Sycamore Partners, after deducting the first year interest payment and certain issuance fees.
	Loan Agreement
	The Tranche A Loan bears interest at an interest rate equal to 10% per annum and, at our election, up to 50% of the interest can be payable-in-kind during the first three years and up to 20% of the interest can be payable-in-kind during the final two years. The first year of interest under the Tranche A Facility in the amount of $10.0 million was prepaid in cash in full on May 23, 2014, and no other interest payments are required to be paid during the first year of the Tranche A Loan. The Tranche A Loan has no annual scheduled repayment requirements. The Tranche A Loan is scheduled to mature on May 23, 2019. The Tranche B Loan will not accrue any interest. The Tranche B Loan has no stated interest rate and will be repaid in equal annual installments of 10% per annum. The Tranche B Loan is scheduled to mature on the earlier of (a) tenth anniversary of the end of the Start-Up Period (as such term is defined in the Sourcing Agreement) and (b) the expiration or termination of the Sourcing Agreement described below.
	The Term Loans are guaranteed by certain of our domestic subsidiaries and secured by a second priority security interest in all assets of the Company and certain of our subsidiaries that were already pledged for the benefit of Bank of America, N.A., as agent, under its existing revolving credit facility, and a first priority security interest in our, and certain of our subsidiaries', remaining assets.
	The Loan Agreement contains representations, covenants and events of default that are substantially consistent with our existing revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. The Loan Agreement also contains a $70.0 million minimum liquidity covenant. The Company was in compliance with the minimum liquidity covenant under the Loan Agreements at January 31, 2015.
	The proceeds of the Term Loans were used for working capital and other general corporate purposes. Prepayment of the Tranche A Loan will require payment of a premium of 10% of the principal amount prepaid on or before the one year anniversary of the closing and 5% of the principal amount prepaid on or before the second anniversary of the closing. There is no prepayment penalty after the second anniversary of the closing. The Tranche B Loan may be prepaid at any time without premium or penalty.
	We recorded liabilities for the Term Loans using imputed interest based on our best estimate of its incremental borrowing rates. The effective interest rate used for Tranche A Loan was 7.19%, resulting in an initial present value of $101.7 million and a resulting debt premium of $1.7 million. The premium is being amortized to interest expense over the expected term of the debt using the effective interest method. The effective interest rate for Tranche B Loan used was 7.86%, resulting in an initial present value of $30.0 million and a debt discount of $20.0 million, which is also being amortized to interest expense over the expected term of the debt. Additionally, we recorded deferred financing fees of $5.9 million related to the Term Loans which are being amortized to interest expense over the expected terms of the debt.
	We had fair values of $135.2 million in borrowings outstanding under the Loan Agreement, with face value of $150.0 million and carrying value of $138.5 million, as of January 31, 2015. Fair value outstanding for Tranche A Loan was $105.9 million, with a face value of $100.0 million and carrying value of $106.9 million. Fair value outstanding for Tranche B Loan was $29.3 million, with a face value of $50.0 million and carrying value of $31.6 million. Total interest and fees expense associated with this transaction was $6.8 million during fiscal 2014.
	Series B Convertible Preferred Stock
	Concurrent with, and as a condition to, entering into the Loan Agreement, we issued 1,000 shares of the Series B Preferred Stock to affiliates of Sycamore Partner at an aggregate offer price of $100 thousand. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock is convertible at any time at the option of the holder on or prior to May 23, 2024 into shares of common stock at an initial conversion rate of 3,932.018 for each share of Series B Preferred Stock. The common stock underlying the Series B Preferred Stock represents 5% of our issued and outstanding common stock as of May 23, 2014. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into shares of the common stock at an initial cash conversion price of $7.25 per share of the underlying common stock. The number of shares of Series B Preferred Stock or common stock to be issued upon exercise and the respective exercise prices are subject to adjustment for changes in the Series B Preferred Stock or common stock, such as stock dividends, stock splits, and similar changes. In the event of a change of control transaction, the Series B Preferred Stock will automatically convert into common stock subject to payment by the holder of such Series B Preferred of the aggregate cash conversion price then in effect, if such conversion price is lower than the per share consideration to be received in the change of control transaction. If the per share consideration to be received in the change of control transaction is less than or equal to the per share cash conversion price then in effect, the Series B Preferred will be automatically converted into a right to receive an amount per share equal to the par value of such share of Series B Preferred Stock.
	We analyzed the embedded conversion option for derivative accounting consideration under FASB ASC Subtopic 815-15, “Derivatives and Hedging” and determined that the conversion option should be classified as equity. We also analyzed the conversion option for beneficial conversion features consideration under ASC Subtopic 470-20 “Convertible Securities with Beneficial Conversion Features” and noted none. The Series B Preferred Stock was recorded in equity at a fair value of $5.9 million upon issuance, and was not recorded as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
	Non-Exclusive Sourcing Agreement
	As a condition to funding the Tranche B Loan, we and one of our subsidiaries also entered into a non-exclusive Sourcing Agreement (the "Sourcing Agreement") with TSAM (Delaware) LLC (d/b/a MGF Sourcing US LLC), an affiliate of Sycamore Partners ("MGF"). The price of merchandise sold to us by MGF pursuant to the Sourcing Agreement is required to be competitive to market. We commenced sourcing goods with MGF pursuant to the Sourcing Agreement during the fourth quarter of 2014.
	We guarantee the obligations of our subsidiary under the Sourcing Agreement. The Sourcing Agreement requires us to purchase a minimum volume of product for a period of 10 years commencing on our first fiscal quarter of 2016 (such period, the "Minimum Volume Commitment Period"), of between $240.0 million and $280.0 million per annum depending on the year (the "Minimum Volume Commitment"). If we fail to purchase the applicable Minimum Volume Commitment in any given year, we will pay a shortfall commission to MGF, based on a scaled percentage of the applicable Minimum Volume Commitment shortfall during the applicable period.
	Under the Sourcing Agreement, MGF is required to pay to us an annual rebate equal to a fixed amount multiplied by the percentage of annual purchases made by us (including purchases deemed to be made by virtue of payment of the shortfall commission) relative to the Minimum Volume Commitment to be applied towards the payment of the required amortization on the Tranche B Loan. The Sourcing Agreement also provides for certain carryover credits if we purchase a volume of product above the Minimum Volume Commitment during the applicable Minimum Volume Commitment Period.
	We may terminate the Sourcing Agreement upon nine months' prior notice at any time after the first three years of the Minimum Volume Commitment Period have elapsed, subject to payment of a termination fee scaled to the term remaining under the Sourcing Agreement.

Restructuring_Program_and_Othe

Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Restructuring Costs [Abstract]
Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs	Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs
	On April 30, 2014, following an assessment of changing consumer patterns, management and the Board of Directors approved a comprehensive plan to restructure the P.S. from Aéropostale business, which is included in our retail store and e-commerce segment, and to reduce costs. We planned to close 126 P.S. from Aéropostale stores, primarily in mall locations, and streamline and improve the Company's expense structure. We also continue to focus on sales channels with higher expectations for growth, including off-mall locations, e-commerce and international licensing of P.S. from Aéropostale. As of January 31, 2015, we closed 126 P.S. from Aéropostale stores, primarily in mall locations, of which 115 were closed during the fourth quarter of 2014. The cost reduction program also targeted direct and indirect spending across the organization. This has included the reduction of corporate headcount by eliminating approximately 100 open or occupied positions to align with our current business strategies.
	The following is a summary of expenses, recognized in restructuring charges in the statement of operations, incurred during fiscal 2014 associated with this program:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31, 2015
		(In thousands)
	Severance	$	4,114
	Reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent, net of lease termination costs	(4,702		)
	Exit cost obligations, net of reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent 1	6,385
	Impairment charges	30,497
	Other exit costs	4,062
	Total	$	40,356
	The Company accrued liabilities for the above mentioned restructuring charges as of January 31, 2015 as follows:
		Impairments			Severance			Lease Costs 1			Unamortized Tenant Allowance and Deferred Rent			Other Exit Costs			Total
		(In thousands)
	Liability/Charge at Program Inception	$	30,497		$	1,060		$	1,046		$	(17,718	)	$	1,886		$	16,771
	Additions	—			3,054			18,355			—			2,176			23,585
	Paid or Utilized	(30,497		)	(4,086		)	(6,808		)				(4,062		)	(45,453		)
	Adjustments	—			—			—			17,718			—			17,718
	Liability as of January 31, 2015	$	—		$	28		$	12,593		$	—		$	—		$	12,621
	1 Includes liabilities of $12.6 million related to stores that were closed during fiscal 2014 for which the leases had not been terminated. The liabilities represent the present value of the remaining lease obligations net of estimated sublease income. If leases are subsequently terminated the related exit cost obligations will be reversed at that time and the termination cost, if any, would be recorded. Of these liabilities, $8.5 million is recorded in accrued expenses and other current liabilities and the balance is included in non-current liabilities.
	We closed 115 P.S. from Aéropostale stores during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 related to the above mentioned restructuring program. We have elected to early adopt the provisions of ASU 2014-08, "Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity", as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 (see Note 1 for a further discussion). We assessed the disposal group under this guidance and concluded the closure of the disposal group to be a "strategic shift". However, this strategic shift was not determined to be a "major" strategic shift based on the portion of our consolidated business that the disposal group represented. Accordingly the disposal group was not presented in the financial statements as discontinued operations. However, we have concluded that this disposal group was an individually significant disposal group. Pretax losses for this disposal group of stores were $43.1 million for fiscal 2014, $20.6 million for fiscal 2013, and $15.9 million for fiscal 2012. These pretax losses included asset impairment charges of $30.2 million for fiscal 2014, $8.3 million for fiscal 2013, and $8.9 million for fiscal 2012.
	Separate and apart from the above mentioned restructuring program, we also closed 122 Aéropostale stores, which included 77 stores in the fourth quarter, in the United States and Canada during fiscal 2014. We have determined that the fourth quarter closures were a result of our ongoing assessment of real estate portfolio optimization, and not a strategic shift. Therefore, these store closures were also not presented in the financial statements as discontinued operations. We recorded lease termination charges of $2.7 million, net of the reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent, and severance expenses of $1.7 million related to these store closures during fiscal 2014. Additionally, we had store exit obligations of $1.5 million, net of the reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent as of January 31, 2015. Included in this net amount are liabilities of $4.5 million related to stores that were closed during fiscal 2014 for which the leases had not been terminated. The liabilities represent the present value of the remaining lease obligations net of estimated sublease income. If leases are subsequently terminated, the related exit cost obligations will be reversed at that time and the termination cost, if any, will be recorded.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	We follow the guidance in ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement” (“ASC 820”) as it relates to financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities. ASC 820 prioritizes inputs used in measuring fair value into a hierarchy of three levels:
	Level 1 – Inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.
	Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability and inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.
	Level 3 – Unobservable inputs reflecting the Company’s own assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available.
	In accordance with the fair value hierarchy described above, the following table shows the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities that are required to be remeasured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		Level 1						Level 2						Level 3
		January 31,			February 1,			January 31,			February 1,			January 31,			February 1,
		2015			2014			2015			2014			2015			2014
		(In thousands)
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents 1	$	110,022		$	82,378		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Total	$	110,022		$	82,378		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Liabilities:
	GoJane performance plan liability 2	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,446		$	7,416
	Total	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,446		$	7,416
	1 Cash and cash equivalents include money market investments valued as Level 1 inputs in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates their carrying value due to their short-term maturities.
	2 Under the terms of the fiscal 2012 GoJane acquisition agreement, the purchase price also includes contingent cash payments of up to an aggregate of $8.0 million if certain financial metrics are achieved by the GoJane business during the five year period beginning on the acquisition date (the "GJ Performance Plan"). These performance payments are not contingent upon continuous employment by the two individual stockholders. The GJ Performance Plan liability is measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs as defined in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the contingent payments as of the acquisition date was estimated to be $7.0 million. This was based on a weighted average expected achievement probability and a discount rate over the expected payment stream. Each quarter, we remeasure the GJ Performance Plan liability at fair value. During the fourth quarter of 2014, we remeasured the liability and reversed $4.5 million based on the probability of achieving the payment targets.
	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the GJ Performance Plan measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31, 2015			February 1, 2014
		(In thousands)
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,416		$	7,019
	Accretion of interest expense	121			397
	GoJane consideration payment	(1,600		)	—
	Subsequent remeasurement	(4,491		)	—
	Balance at end of period	$	1,446		$	7,416
	The $1.4 million liability as of January 31, 2015 was included in non-current liabilities. Of the $7.4 million liability as of February 1, 2014, $1.6 million was included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities and the balance was included in non-current liabilities.
	Non-Financial Assets
	Our non-financial assets, which include fixtures, equipment and improvements and intangible assets, are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  However, if certain triggering events occur, or if an impairment test is required and we are required to evaluate the non-financial asset for impairment, we would record an impairment charge if the carrying value of the non-financial asset exceeds its fair value.
	We recorded asset impairment charges of $77.2 million in fiscal 2014 for primarily 341 stores. Of these charges, $46.7 million was included in cost of sales. The remaining $30.5 million was included in restructuring charges, as it related to the P.S. from Aéropostale stores to be exited. We recorded store asset impairment charges, all of which was included in the cost of sales, of $46.1 million in fiscal 2013 for primarily 230 stores and $32.6 million in fiscal 2012 for primarily 119 stores. These amounts included the write-down of long-lived assets at stores that were assessed for impairment because of (a) changes in circumstances that indicated the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable, or (b) management’s intention to relocate or close stores.  Impairment charges were primarily related to revenues and/or gross margins not meeting targeted levels at the respective stores as a result of macroeconomic conditions, location related conditions and other factors that are negatively impacting the sales and cash flows of these locations. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we recorded $5.1 million of impairment loss for GoJane trademarks included in our retail stores and e-commerce segment. The decline in fair value of the trademarks below its book value was primarily the result of lower than expected revenue and gross margin growth relative to the assumptions made in the prior fiscal year.
	Long-lived assets and intangible assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis for purposes of calculating impairment using Level 3 inputs as defined in the fair value hierarchy.  The fair value of these assets is determined by estimating the amount and timing of net future discounted net cash flows.  We estimate future net cash flows based on our experience, current trends and local market conditions. Based upon future results of operations at the store level, additional impairment charges may be recorded in future periods if loss trends continue and/or the current net cash flow projections are not achieved.
	The table below sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the fair value of long-lived assets and intangible assets for which impairment was recognized during the year:
			Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)						Total Losses
												Total Fair Value
			(In thousands)
	January 31, 2015:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	7,904		$	7,904		$	77,224
	Intangible assets		—			—			6,300			6,300			5,100
	February 1, 2014:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	11,687		$	11,687		$	46,070
	February 2, 2013:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	4,237		$	4,237		$	32,633

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc.	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc.	Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc.
	On November 13, 2012, we acquired substantially all of the assets of online women's fashion footwear and apparel retailer GoJane.com, Inc. ("GoJane"). Based in Los Angeles, California, GoJane focuses primarily on fashion footwear, with a select offering of contemporary apparel and other accessories. We believe this strategic acquisition of GoJane allows us to expand into new fashion categories online. We also believe that we will be able to utilize and leverage our existing infrastructure to develop and grow the GoJane business.
	The financial results of GoJane were included in our consolidated financial statements as of the acquisition date. We have not presented separate financial results or the pro forma results of operations for periods prior to the acquisition because GoJane's results of operations were not material to our consolidated results for fiscal 2014, 2013 or fiscal 2012.
	Purchase Price
	Under the terms of the agreement, we acquired the net assets in exchange for a purchase price of up to $33.6 million. The purchase price consisted of $25.2 million in cash paid from cash on hand. The purchase price also included an additional $0.4 million for the final working capital adjustment paid during the first quarter of 2013.
	The purchase price also includes contingent cash payments of up to an aggregate of $8.0 million if certain financial metrics are achieved by the GoJane business during the five year period beginning on the acquisition date (the "GJ Performance Plan"). These performance payments are not contingent upon continuous employment by the two individual stockholders. The GJ Performance Plan liability is measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs as defined in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the contingent payments as of the acquisition date was estimated to be $7.0 million. This was based on a weighted average expected achievement probability and a discount rate over the expected payment stream. Each quarter, we remeasure the GJ Performance Plan liability at fair value. During the fourth quarter of 2014, we remeasured the liability and reversed $4.5 million based on the probability of achieving the payment targets. As of January 31, 2015, the liability for contingent payments was $1.4 million.
	Net Assets Acquired
	Total consideration of $32.6 million was allocated to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date, as follows, with the remaining unallocated purchase price recorded to goodwill (in thousands):
	Total cash consideration		$	25,556
	Assets acquired:
	Inventory		2,961
	Other assets		162
	Intangible assets:
	Trademarks		11,400
	Customer relationships		3,400
	E-commerce software platform		800
	Total assets acquired		$	18,723
	Liabilities assumed		(67		)
	Contingent consideration recognized		(7,019		)
	Net assets acquired		$	11,637
	Goodwill		$	13,919
	We estimated the fair values of the acquired intangible assets based on discounted cash flow models using estimates and assumptions regarding future operations and cash flows. We determined that the trademarks have an indefinite life and will not be amortized. These trademarks are tested annually for impairment along with the goodwill recorded for the purchase. The customer relationships are being amortized over their estimated useful life of seven years on a straight-line basis, which approximates the pattern of expected economic benefit. The e-commerce software platform is being amortized over its estimated useful life of three years on a straight-line basis.
	Goodwill is equal to the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired, and represents benefits from the acquisition that are not attributable to individually identified and separately recognized assets. Those benefits include the expected opportunity to expand into new fashion categories online, and to leverage our existing infrastructure to develop and grow the GoJane business. The goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. All goodwill is related to the GoJane reporting unit.
	We evaluate all indefinite-lived intangible assets for possible impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. During the fourth quarter of 2014, we performed our annual impairment test for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets and recorded $5.1 million of impairment loss for the GoJane trademark included in our retail stores and e-commerce segment. The decline in fair value of the trademarks below its book value was primarily the result of lower than expected revenue and gross margin growth relative to the assumptions made in the prior fiscal year. During fiscal 2013, we did not recognize any impairment loss for goodwill or other intangible assets. As of January 31, 2015, the carrying value of the trademark was written down to $6.3 million.
	Other Consideration
	Also, in connection with the GoJane acquisition, we granted restricted shares to the two individual stockholders of GoJane, with compensation expense recognized over the three year cliff vesting period (see Note 12 for a further discussion).
	Acquisition related costs were not material for any period presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Intangible Assets
	Intangible assets consist of the following:
			31-Jan-15
	Description		Gross Carrying Amount			Impairment			Accumulated Amortization		Net
			(In thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer relationships		$	3,400		$	—		$	1,093	$	2,307
	E-commerce software platform		800			—			598		202
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization		4,200			—			1,691		2,509
	Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Trademarks		11,400			(5,100		)	—		6,300
	Total intangible assets		$	15,600		$	(5,100	)	$	1,691	$	8,809
			1-Feb-14
	Description		Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization			Net
			(In thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer relationships		$	3,400		$	607		$	2,793
	E-commerce software platform		800			332			468
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization		4,200			939			3,261
	Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Trademarks		11,400			—			11,400
	Total intangible assets		$	15,600		$	939		$	14,661
	Amortization
	We recognized amortization expense on intangible assets of $0.8 million in fiscal 2014, $0.8 million in fiscal 2013 and $0.2 million in fiscal 2012. We amortize our finite-lived intangible assets primarily over the following weighted-average periods: customer relationships - seven years and e-commerce software platform - three years. In addition, the weighted-average life of all finite-lived intangibles assets is six years. Based on the amount of intangible assets subject to amortization as of January 31, 2015, the expected amortization for each of the next five fiscal years and thereafter is as follows:
		Amortization Expense
		(In thousands)
	Fiscal 2015	$	686
	Fiscal 2016	486
	Fiscal 2017	486
	Fiscal 2018	486
	Fiscal 2019	365
	Thereafter	—
	Total	$	2,509

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders’ Equity	Stockholders’ Equity
	Stockholders Rights Plan
	On November 26, 2013, we entered into a Rights Agreement with American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (the “Rights Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company, among other things, issued one right (a “Right”) for each outstanding share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company (the “Rights Plan”). By its terms, the Rights Plan provided that, among other things, the Rights would expire upon the close of business on the earliest to occur of: (i) November 26, 2014, (ii) the date on which the rights are redeemed or exchanged by the Company in accordance with the Rights Agreement and (iii) the date of the Company’s 2014 annual meeting of stockholders if requisite stockholder approval of the Rights Agreement is not obtained at such meeting. The Board determined not to seek stockholder approval of the Rights Plan at the 2014 Annual Meeting which occurred on June 30, 2014. Consequently, pursuant to the terms of the Rights Plan, and without any further action, as of the date of the Annual Meeting, the right to exercise the Rights terminated, each Right is null and void and the Rights Plan expired.
	Stock Repurchase Program
	We have the ability to repurchase our common stock under a stock repurchase program, which was announced on December 9, 2003. The repurchase program may be modified or terminated by the Board of Directors at any time and there is no expiration date for the program. The extent and timing of repurchases will depend upon general business and market conditions, stock prices, opening and closing of the stock trading window, and liquidity and capital resource requirements going forward. During fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, we did not repurchase shares of our common stock under our stock repurchase program.  During fiscal 2012, we repurchased 3.0 million shares for $40.8 million. Under the program to date, we have repurchased 60.1 million shares of our common stock for $1.0 billion.  As of January 31, 2015, we have approximately $104.4 million of repurchase authorization remaining under our $1.15 billion share repurchase program.
	In addition to the above program, we withheld 0.4 million shares for minimum statutory withholding taxes of $1.5 million related to the vesting of stock awards during fiscal 2014 and 0.1 million shares for minimum statutory withholding taxes of $1.6 million during fiscal 2013.
	Retirement of Treasury Stock
	In January 2013, we retired 13.6 million shares of our treasury stock. These shares remain as authorized stock; however they are now considered unissued. In accordance with ASC Topic 505, “Equity” (“ASC 505”), the treasury stock retirement resulted in a reduction of the following on our consolidated balance sheet: common stock by $0.1 million, treasury stock by $301.0 million and retained earnings by $300.9 million. There was no effect on total stockholders' equity position as a result of the retirement.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	The following table sets forth the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
		January 31,			February 1,
		2015			2014
		(In thousands)
	Pension liability, net of tax	$	1,937		$	(2,007	)
	Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment 1	1,161			824
	Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	3,098		$	(1,183	)
	1 Foreign currency translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to a permanent investment in our subsidiary in Canada.
	The changes in components in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Jan-15
		Pension Liability			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
		(In thousands)
	Beginning balance at February 2, 2014	$	(2,007	)	$	824		$	(1,183	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	—			337			337
	Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	3,944			—			3,944
	Tax effect on pension liability	—			—			—
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	3,944			337			4,281
	Ending balance at January 31, 2015	$	1,937		$	1,161		$	3,098
		Fiscal Year Ended
		February 1, 2014
		Pension Liability			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
		(In thousands)
	Beginning balance at February 3, 2013	$	(2,541	)	$	2,731		$	190
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	—			(1,907		)	(1,907		)
	Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	1,749			—			1,749
	Tax effect on pension liability	(1,215		)	—			(1,215		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	534			(1,907		)	(1,373		)
	Ending balance at February 1, 2014	$	(2,007	)	$	824		$	(1,183	)
	Reclassifications out of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 are not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Fixtures_Equipment_and_Improve

Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements	Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements
	Fixtures, equipment and improvements consist of the following (in thousands):
		January 31, 2015		February 1, 2014
	Leasehold improvements	$	211,889	$	316,581
	Fixtures and equipment	98,062		144,767
	Computer equipment and software	115,381		127,773
	Construction in progress	2,785		3,615
		428,117		592,736
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	298,008		357,335
		$	130,109	$	235,401
	Depreciation and amortization expense related to fixtures, equipment and improvements was $49.9 million in fiscal 2014, $63.6 million in fiscal 2013, and $65.6 million in fiscal 2012.

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:
		January 31,		February 1,
		2015		2014
		(In thousands)
	Accrued gift cards	$	22,164	$	27,783
	Accrued compensation	19,770		16,939
	Current portion of exit cost obligations	10,771		—
	Current portion of SERP liability	6,044		—
	Accrued rent	5,204		6,574
	Other	46,607		50,820
	Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$	110,560	$	102,116

Noncurrent_Liabilities

Non-current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Non-current Liabilities	Non-current Liabilities
	Non-current liabilities consist of the following:
		January 31,		February 1,
		2015		2014
		(In thousands)
	Deferred rent	$	38,407	$	46,831
	Deferred tenant allowance	25,262		51,189
	Non-current portion of exit cost obligations	6,277		—
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities	5,060		14,339
	Uncertain tax contingency liabilities	1,917		3,702
	Other	4,325		10,527
	Total non-current liabilities	$	81,248	$	126,588

Revolving_Credit_Facility

Revolving Credit Facility	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Revolving Credit Facility	Revolving Credit Facility
	In September 2011, we entered into an amended and restated revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility originally provided for a revolving credit line up to $175.0 million. The Credit Facility is available for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Credit Facility is scheduled to expire on September 22, 2016, and is guaranteed by all of our domestic subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”). No amounts were outstanding during fiscal 2013 or as of February 1, 2014 under the Credit Facility. During the first half of fiscal 2014, we borrowed and repaid $75.5 million. Management has no reason at this time to believe that the participating institutions will be unable to fulfill their obligations to provide financing in accordance with the terms of the Credit Agreement in the event of our election to draw funds in the foreseeable future.
	On February 21, 2014, the Company, certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, including GoJane LLC, the Lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as agent for the ratable benefit of the Credit Parties (in such capacity, the “Agent”), entered into a Joinder and First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement and Amendment to Certain Other Loan Documents (the “First Amendment”). The First Amendment amended the Credit Facility, among other things, to increase from $175.0 million to $230.0 million the aggregate amount of loans and other extensions of credit available to the Borrower under the Credit Facility by (i) the addition of a $30.0 million first-in, last-out revolving loan facility based on the appraised value of certain intellectual property of the Company, and (ii) an increase in the Company’s existing revolving credit facility by $25.0 million, from $175.0 million to $200.0 million (which continues to include a $40.0 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit). In addition, the accordion feature of the Credit Facility, under which the Company may request an increase in the commitments of the Lenders thereunder from time to time, was reduced from $75.0 million to $50.0 million. GoJane LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, also joined the Credit Facility as a new guarantor.
	On May 23, 2014, we entered into $150.0 million secured credit facilities with affiliates of Sycamore Partners. In connection with this agreement, we amended the revolving credit facility with Bank of America N.A. to allow for the incurrence of this additional debt under the Loan Agreement (see Note 2).
	Loans under the Credit Facility are secured by substantially all of our assets and are guaranteed by the Guarantors. Upon the occurrence of a Suspension Event (which is defined in the Credit Facility as an event of default or any occurrence, circumstance or state of facts which would become an event of default after notice, or lapse of time, or both) or, in certain circumstances, a Cash Dominion Event (which is defined in the Credit Facility as either any event of default or failure to maintain availability in an amount greater than 12.5% of the lesser of the borrowing base and facility commitment), our ability to borrow funds, make investments, pay dividends and repurchase shares of our common stock may be limited, among other limitations. Direct borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at a margin over either LIBOR or the Prime Rate (as each such term is defined in the Credit Facility).
	The Credit Facility also contains covenants that, subject to specified exceptions, restrict our ability to, among other things:
	•	incur additional debt or encumber assets of the Company;
	•	merge with or acquire other companies, liquidate or dissolve;
	•	sell, transfer, lease or dispose of assets; and
	•	make loans or guarantees.
	Events of default under the Credit Facility include, but not limited to, and subject to grace periods and notice provisions in certain circumstances, failure to pay principal amounts when due, breaches of covenants, misrepresentation, default on leases or other indebtedness, excess uninsured casualty loss, excess uninsured judgment or restraint of business, failure to maintain specified availability levels, business failure or application for bankruptcy, legal challenges to loan documents or a change in control. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Facility, the Lenders may take action, including but not limited to, cease making loans, termination of the Credit Facility and declaration that all amounts outstanding are immediately due and payable, and taking possession of and selling all assets that have been used as collateral.
	The Company is subject to a restriction requiring the maintenance of minimum availability levels based upon the lesser of 10% of the borrowing base or commitments, as defined in the Credit Facility.
	Availability under the Credit Facility is based on a borrowing base consisting of merchandise inventory, certain intellectual property and receivables. As of January 31, 2015, we had no borrowings and our remaining availability was $116.8 million. During fiscal 2013 and as of February 1, 2014, we had no outstanding balances under the Credit Facility. In June 2012, Bank of America, N.A. issued a stand-by letter of credit. As of January 31, 2015, the outstanding letter of credit was $0.2 million and expires on June 30, 2015. We do not have any other stand-by or commercial letters of credit outstanding as of January 31, 2015 under the Credit Facility.
	As of January 31, 2015, we are not aware of any instances of noncompliance with any financial covenants.

Loss_Earnings_Per_Share

(Loss) Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
(Loss) Earnings Per Share	(Loss) Earnings Per Share
	The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31,			February 1,			February 2, 2013
		2015			2014
	Net (loss) income	$	(206,458	)	$	(141,831	)	$	34,923
	Weighted average basic shares	78,862			78,455			80,069
	Impact of dilutive securities	—			—			425
	Weighted average diluted shares	78,862			78,455			80,494
	Basic (loss) earnings per share	$	(2.62	)	$	(1.81	)	$	0.44
	Diluted (loss) earnings per share	$	(2.62	)	$	(1.81	)	$	0.43
	All options to purchase shares, in addition to restricted and performance shares, were excluded from the computation of diluted loss per share because the effect would be anti-dilutive during fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013. Options to purchase 400,086 shares during fiscal 2012 were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the common shares, and therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation
	Under the provisions of ASC 718, all forms of share-based payment to employees and directors, including stock options, must be treated as compensation and recognized in the statement of operations.
	On May 8, 2014, the Board unanimously approved the 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Omnibus Plan”), which is an amendment and restatement of our Second Amended and Restated 2002 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended (the “2002 Plan”). The Omnibus Plan became effective upon stockholder approval at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on June 30, 2014 (the “Omnibus Plan Effective Date”). The Omnibus Plan includes the following key modifications, effective upon the 2014 Omnibus Plan Effective Date:
	•	Increase of the Aggregate Share Reserve. The aggregate share reserve increased by an additional 5,900,000 shares of common stock for a total share reserve of 6,113,891 shares of common stock under the Omnibus Plan. As of January 31, 2015, there were 4,725,321 shares outstanding compared to 1,273,238 shares outstanding as of February 1, 2014 under the Omnibus Plan.
	•	Cash Performance Awards. The Omnibus Plan includes Cash Performance Awards that may be granted with the intent to comply with the “performance-based compensation” exception under Section 162(m) of the Code. Because Cash Performance Awards may be made in addition to stock-based awards, the 2002 Plan has been renamed the “2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan.”
	•	Term Extension. We extended the term of the Omnibus Plan until May 8, 2024 (the 2002 Plan was scheduled to expire on June 16, 2021).
	On December 13, 2013, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Aéropostale, Inc. adopted an amendment to the Aéropostale Second Amended and Restated 2002 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan”) to provide for grants of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) under the Plan and a form of RSU award agreement (the “Award Agreement”) to evidence grants of RSUs under the Plan.
	Restricted Stock Units
	Beginning in fiscal 2013, certain of our employees have been awarded restricted stock units, pursuant to restricted stock unit agreements. The restricted stock units awarded to employees cliff vest at varying times, most typically following between one and three years of continuous service from the award date. Certain shares awarded may also vest upon a qualified retirement at or following age 65, or upon a qualified early retirement under the provisions adopted in 2012 whereby the awardee completes 10 years of service, attains age 55 and retires. All restricted stock units immediately vest upon a change in control of the Company.
	The following table summarizes restricted stock units outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	230		$	9.05
	Granted	325		4.79
	Vested	(419	)	6.02
	Modified	262		2.73
	Cancelled	—		—
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	398		$	4.6
	Total compensation expense is being amortized over the shorter of the achievement of retirement or early retirement status, or the vesting period.  Compensation expense related to restricted units activity was $2.1 million for fiscal 2014 and $1.2 million for fiscal 2013. As of January 31, 2015, there was $0.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock units that is expected to be recognized over the weighted average period of one year.  The total fair value of units vested was $2.5 million during fiscal 2014. The total fair value of units vested was zero during fiscal 2013.
	Additionally, beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2014, certain of our employees have been awarded cash-settled restricted stock units, pursuant to cash-settled restricted stock unit agreements. The cash-settled restricted stock units awarded to employees cliff vest at varying times up to approximately three years of continuous service. Certain shares awarded may also vest upon a qualified retirement at or following age 65, or upon a qualified early retirement under the provisions adopted in 2012 whereby the awardee completes 10 years of service, attains age 55 and retires. All cash-settled restricted stock units immediately vest upon a change in control of the Company.  We may, in our sole discretion, at any time during the term, convert the cash-settled restricted stock units into stock-settled restricted stock units. The cash-settled restricted stock units are treated as liability awards in accordance with ASC 718. During January 2015, we converted 262,000 shares of cash-settled restricted stock units to stock-settled restricted stock units.
	The following table summarizes cash-settled restricted stock units outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	—		$	—
	Granted	1,219		4.93
	Vested	(80	)	2.89
	Modified	(262	)	2.73
	Canceled	(130	)	4.03
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	747		$	2.44
	Total compensation expense is being amortized over the shorter of the achievement of retirement or early retirement status, or the vesting period.  Compensation expense related to restricted shares activity was $1.4 million for fiscal 2014. As of January 31, 2015, there was $1.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to cash-settled restricted stock units that is expected to be recognized over the weighted average period of two years.
	Restricted Shares
	Certain of our employees and all of our directors have been awarded non-vested stock (restricted shares), pursuant to non-vested stock agreements. The restricted shares awarded to employees generally cliff vest after up to three years of continuous service.  Certain shares awarded may also vest upon a qualified retirement at or following age 65, or upon a qualified early retirement under the provisions adopted in 2012 whereby an awardee completes 10 years of service, attains age 55 and retires. All restricted shares immediately vest upon a change in control of the Company.  Grants of restricted shares awarded to directors vest in full after one year after the date of the grant.
	The following table summarizes non-vested shares of stock outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	1,856		$	14.82
	Granted	299		4.5
	Vested	(569	)	18.13
	Cancelled	(135	)	12.36
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	1,451		$	11.61
	Total compensation expense is being amortized over the shorter of the achievement of retirement or early retirement status, or the vesting period.  Compensation expense related to restricted shares activity was $7.3 million for fiscal 2014, $13.0 million for fiscal 2013 and $8.0 million for fiscal 2012. As of January 31, 2015, there was $5.0 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted shares awards that is expected to be recognized over the weighted average period of one year.  The total fair value of shares vested was $10.3 million during fiscal 2014, $7.9 million during fiscal 2013 and $7.1 million during fiscal 2012.
	In connection with the GoJane acquisition, we granted restricted shares to the two individual stockholders of GoJane, with compensation expense recognized over the three year cliff vesting period (see Note 5 for a further discussion regarding this acquisition). If the aggregate dollar value of the restricted shares on the vesting date is less than $8.0 million, then we shall pay to the two individual stockholders an amount in cash equal to the difference between $8.0 million and the fair market value of the restricted shares on the vesting date. As of January 31, 2015 and during fiscal 2014, we recorded additional compensation expense of $3.3 million and have a corresponding liability of $4.8 million based on the Company's stock price as of January 31, 2015. As of February 1, 2014 and during fiscal 2013, we recorded additional compensation expense and a corresponding liability of $1.5 million based on the Company's stock price as of February 1, 2014.
	On October 31, 2013, we entered into Restricted Stock Award Rescission Agreements with certain executives to rescind 229,760 aggregate shares of restricted stock granted on March 29, 2013 under the Aéropostale, Inc. 2002 Long-Term Incentive Plan. The rescission did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements for any period presented and we recorded $1.0 million of compensation cost during fiscal 2013 as a result of rescinding such restricted stock awards.
	Performance Shares
	Certain of our executives have been awarded performance shares, pursuant to performance share agreements. The performance shares cliff vest at the end of three years of continuous service with us. The shares awarded are contingent upon meeting various separate performance conditions based upon consolidated earnings targets or market conditions based upon total shareholder return targets. All performance shares immediately vest upon a change in control of the Company (as communicated to the executives awarded performance shares). Compensation cost for the performance shares with performance conditions related to consolidated earnings targets is periodically reviewed and adjusted based upon the probability of achieving certain performance targets. If the probability of achieving targets changes, compensation cost will be adjusted in the period that the probability of achievement changes. The fair value of performance based awards is based upon the fair value of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. For market based awards that vest based upon total shareholder return targets, the effect of the market conditions is reflected in the fair value of the awards on the date of grant using a Monte-Carlo simulation model. A Monte-Carlo simulation model estimates the fair value of the market based award based upon the expected term, risk-free interest rate, expected dividend yield and expected volatility measure for the Company and its peer group. Compensation expense for market based awards is recognized over the vesting period regardless of whether the market conditions are expected to be achieved.
	The following table summarizes performance shares of stock outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Performance-based					Market-based
		Performance Shares					Performance Shares
		Shares		Weighted Average			Shares			Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value						Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)					(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	—		$	—		391			$	20.01
	Granted	—		—			677			5.34
	Vested	—		—			—			—
	Cancelled	—		—			(579	)		11.11
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	—		$	—		489			$	10.25
	Total compensation expense is being amortized over the vesting period. Compensation expense related to the market-based performance shares which we granted was $2.4 million for fiscal 2014 and $2.1 million for fiscal 2013. We did not recognize compensation expense related to performance-based performance shares during fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 or fiscal 2012 based on our determination of the likelihood of achieving the performance conditions associated with the respective shares. As a result of the departure of Mr. Johnson after the end of the second quarter of 2014, we recognized a benefit of $2.0 million during fiscal 2014 resulting from the reversal of the related stock-based compensation expense.
	The following table summarizes unrecognized compensation cost and the weighted-average years expected to recognize related to performance share awards outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Performance-based			Market-based
		Performance Shares			Performance Shares
	Total unrecognized compensation (in thousands)	$	—		$	2,456
Weighted-average years expected to recognize compensation cost (years)	0			2
Cash-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights ("CSARs")
In conjunction with the execution of the employment agreement with Mr. Johnson on May 3, 2013, we granted him an award of CSARs, with an award date value of $5.6 million. The number of CSARs granted was determined in accordance with the agreement by dividing $5.6 million by the Black Scholes value of the closing price of a share of the Company's common stock on the award date. As of January 31, 2015, our expected volatility was 71%, expected term was 0.6 years, risk-free interest rate was 0.08% and expected forfeiture rate was 0%. The CSARs are currently being treated as a liability based award. The CSARs have a term of seven years and will vest in equal 1/3 increments over three years. Additionally, we may, in our sole discretion, at any time during the term, exchange a CSAR for another form of equity which is of equal value to the CSAR at the time of the exchange. During fiscal 2014, we recorded $0.3 million of benefit related to this incentive award. During fiscal 2013, we recorded $0.3 million of expense related to this incentive award. As of January 31, 2015, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to CSARs.  As a result of the departure of Mr. Johnson after the end of the second quarter of 2014, 2/3 of these CSARs were forfeited. The remaining vested shares will expire within a year from Mr. Johnson's departure date.
Performance Based Bonus
The Employment Agreement with Julian R. Geiger, our Chief Executive Officer, provides for a special performance based bonus. If, during any consecutive 90 calendar day period during the third year of the term of the Employment Agreement the average closing price per share of the Company’s common stock is $15.93 or higher, Mr. Geiger will be entitled to a performance-based cash bonus equal to 2% of the amount, if any, by which the Company’s average market capitalization during the period with the highest 90 day average stock price during the third year of the term of the Employment Agreement exceeds $255,360,600 (the “Effective Date Market Cap”). If prior to the achievement of such performance metric (but not during the first 90 days of the term of the agreement), Mr. Geiger’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause, by Mr. Geiger for Good Reason, upon Mr. Geiger’s death or by the Company due to his Disability, or there is a Change of Control (each a “Qualifying Event”), and as of the date of such Qualifying Event the common stock price exceeds $3.24, then, the amount of the performance-based cash bonus will instead be 2% of the amount, if any, by which the Company’s average market capitalization over the 30 calendar day period immediately preceding the Qualifying Event exceeds the Effective Date Market Cap.
This bonus is a market and service based liability award that is required to be marked-to-market under ASC 718. The fair value of this award is estimated using a Monte-Carlo simulation model. A Monte-Carlo simulation model estimates the fair value of a market based award based upon the expected term, risk-free interest rate, expected dividend yield and expected volatility measure for the Company. Compensation expense for this award is recognized over the vesting period regardless of whether the market condition is expected to be achieved. We have recorded a liability for this award that was immaterial to the financial statements as of January 31, 2015.
Stock Options
We have an Omnibus Incentive Plan under which we may grant qualified and non-qualified stock options to purchase shares of our common stock to executives, consultants, directors, or other key employees.  Stock options may not be granted at less than the fair market value at the date of grant. Stock options generally vest over four years on a pro-rata basis and expire after eight years. All outstanding stock options immediately vest upon (i) a change in control of the company (as defined in the plan) and (ii) termination of the employee within one year of such change of control.
The fair value of options granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Black-Scholes model requires certain assumptions, including estimating the length of time employees will retain their vested stock options before exercising them (“expected term”), the estimated volatility of our common stock price over the expected term and the number of options that will ultimately not complete their vesting requirements (“forfeitures”). During fiscal 2014, our expected volatility was 52.8% to 56.1%, expected term was 3.96 to 5.00 years, risk-free interest rate was 1.17% to 1.58% and expected forfeiture rate was 0%. Changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimate of fair value of stock-based compensation and consequently, the related amount recognized in the consolidated statements of operations.
The effects of applying the provisions of ASC 718 and the results obtained through the use of the Black-Scholes option-pricing model are not necessarily indicative of future values.
The following table summarizes stock option transactions for common stock during fiscal 2014:
	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	(In thousands)					(In years)		(In millions)
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	377		$	16.61
Granted	2,030		3.24
Exercised	—		—
Cancelled1	(160	)	15.35
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	2,247		$	4.62		5.99		$	—
Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest2	2,247		$	4.62		5.99		$	—
Exercisable as of January 31, 2015	212		$	17.57		0.51		$	—
1 The number of options cancelled includes approximately 155,000 expired shares.
2 The number of options expected to vest takes into consideration estimated expected forfeitures.
Included in the table above and in connection with his employment agreement, Mr. Geiger was granted an award of options to purchase 2.0 million shares of our common stock. These stock options have a strike price of $3.24 per share, vest over three years on a pro-rata basis, and have a seven year life.
We recognized $0.5 million in compensation expense related to stock options during fiscal 2014, less than $0.1 million during fiscal 2013 and less than $0.1 million during fiscal 2012. For fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, there was no intrinsic value for options exercised compared to less than $0.1 million for fiscal 2012.
The following table summarizes information regarding non-vested outstanding stock options as of January 31, 2015:
			Weighted Average
	Shares		Grant-Date Fair Value
	(In thousands)
Non-vested as of February 2, 2014	10		$	6.41
Granted	2,030		1.51
Vested	—		—
Cancelled	(5	)	6.43
Non-vested as of January 31, 2015	2,035		$	1.52
As of January 31, 2015, there was $2.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested options that we expect will be recognized over the remaining weighted-average vesting period of two years.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans

Retirement Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Retirement Benefit Plans	Retirement Benefit Plans
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities consisted of the following:
		January 31, 2015		February 1, 2014
		(In thousands)
	Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”)	$	7,531	$	10,551
	Other retirement plan liabilities	4,226		4,050
	Total	11,757		14,601
	Less amount classified in accrued expenses related to SERP	6,044		—
	Less amount classified in accrued expenses related to other retirement plan liabilities	653		262
	Long-term retirement benefit plan liabilities	$	5,060	$	14,339
	401(k) Plan
	We maintain a qualified, defined contribution retirement plan with a 401(k) salary deferral feature that covers substantially all of our employees who meet certain requirements.  Under the terms of the plan, employees may contribute, subject to statutory limitations, up to 100% of gross earnings and historically, including fiscal 2013, we have provided a matching contribution of 50% of the first 5% of gross earnings contributed by the participants.  We also have the option to make additional contributions or to suspend the employer contribution at any time. The employer's matching contributions vest over a five-year service period with 20% vesting after two years and 50% vesting after year three.  Vesting increases thereafter at a rate of 25% per year so that participants will be fully vested after five years of service. We suspended the Company's matching contribution under the plan for fiscal 2014 and have re-instated it for fiscal 2015. Contribution expense was $1.8 million in fiscal 2013 and $1.5 million in fiscal 2012. During fiscal 2011, we established separate defined contribution plans for eligible employees in both Canada and Puerto Rico who meet certain requirements. Contribution expense for these plans was not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements for any period presented.
	Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
	We maintain a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, or SERP. This plan is a non-qualified defined benefit plan for certain executives.  The plan is non-contributory and not funded and provides benefits based on years of service and compensation during employment.  Participants are fully vested upon entrance in the plan. Pension expense is determined using the projected unit credit cost method to estimate the total benefits ultimately payable to officers and this cost is allocated to service periods.  The actuarial assumptions used to calculate pension costs are reviewed annually. We expect to make contributions to the SERP when the participants cease employment with us. The amount of cash contributions we are required to make to the plans could increase or decrease depending on when employees make retirement elections and other factors which are not in the control of the Company. Our expected cash contributions to the plans are equal to the expected benefit payments. The liability related to this plan was $7.5 million as of January 31, 2015 and $10.6 million as of February 1, 2014.
	On March 2, 2015, we paid Thomas P. Johnson, our former Chief Executive Officer, $6.0 million from our SERP. Accordingly, the SERP liability related to Mr. Johnson has been classified as a current liability in our consolidated balance sheet as of January 31, 2015. Such amount will be paid from our cash flows from operations. At the date of payment to Mr. Johnson, we will record a benefit estimated to be approximately $1.0 million in SG&A, with a corresponding amount recorded to relieve accumulated other comprehensive loss included in our stockholders' equity. This accounting treatment is in accordance with settlement accounting procedures under the provisions of ASC Topic 715, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits". This plan was not material to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Other Retirement Plan Liabilities
	We have a long-term incentive deferred compensation plan established for the purpose of providing long-term incentives to a select group of management. The plan is a non-qualified, non-contributory defined contribution plan and is not funded. Participants in this plan include all employees designated by us as Vice President, or other higher-ranking positions that are not participants in the SERP. We record annual monetary credits to each participant's account based on compensation levels and years as a participant in the plan. Annual interest credits are applied to the balance of each participant's account based upon established benchmarks. Each annual credit is subject to a three-year cliff-vesting schedule, and participants' accounts will be fully vested upon retirement after completing five years of service and attaining age 55. The liability related to this plan was $4.2 million as of January 31, 2015 and $3.9 million as of February 1, 2014. Compensation expense related to this plan was not material to our Consolidated Financial Statements for any period presented.
	We maintain a postretirement benefit plan for certain executives that provides retiree medical and dental benefits. The plan is an "other post-employment benefit plan", or "OPEB", and is not funded. Pension expense and the liability related to this plan were not material to our Consolidated Financial Statements for any period presented.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Domestic and foreign pretax (loss) income is as follows (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014				2013				2012
	Domestic		$	(196,394	)		$	(154,148	)		$	78,550
	Foreign		(25,527		)		(31,971		)		(19,524		)
	Total (loss) income before (benefit) provision for income taxes		$	(221,921	)		$	(186,119	)		$	59,026
	The (benefit) provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal		$	(19,313	)		$	(45,615	)		$	32,740
	State and local		(1,823		)		2,035				1,930
	Foreign		1,269				1,052				(1,707		)
			$	(19,867	)		$	(42,528	)		$	32,963
	Deferred:
	Federal		$	—			$	(5,981	)		$	(5,234	)
	State and local		4,440				1,707				(1,556		)
	Foreign		(36		)		2,514				(2,070		)
			$	4,404			$	(1,760	)		$	(8,860	)
			$	(15,463	)		$	(44,288	)		$	24,103
	Reconciliation of the U.S. statutory tax rate with our effective tax rate is summarized as follows:
			Fiscal
			2014			2013			2012
	Federal statutory tax rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	(Decrease) increase in tax resulting from:
	Foreign income taxes		(0.8	)%		(4.2	)%		4.5	%
	State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1.2	)%		(1.8	)%		(1.6	)%
	Federal income tax valuation allowance		(25.2	)%		(4.8	)%		—	%
	Other		(0.8	)%		(0.4	)%		2.9	%
	Effective rate		7	%		23.8	%		40.8	%
	The components of the net deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows (in thousands):
			31-Jan-15				1-Feb-14
	Current:
	Inventory		$	(8,861	)		$	(7,094	)
	Unredeemed gift cards		3,251				3,620
	Accrued compensation		4,085				1,930
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities		2,371				—
	Other		5,382				1,681
	Net current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance		$	6,228			$	137
	Valuation allowance		(6,184		)		(42		)
	Net current deferred tax assets		$	44			$	95
	Non-current:
	Furniture, equipment and improvements		$	9,474			$	433
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities		1,985				5,624
	Stock-based compensation		8,786				7,423
	Deferred rent and tenant allowances		5,444				10,354
	Net operating loss carry-forwards (“NOL’s”)		70,118				15,083
	Other		9,015				(2,222		)
	Net non-current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance		104,822				36,695
	Valuation allowance		(104,364		)		(31,883		)
	Net non-current deferred tax assets		$	458			$	4,812
	Net deferred income tax assets		$	502			$	4,907
	As of January 31, 2015, we had an aggregate of approximately $611.5 million of U.S. federal, state, and Canadian NOL’s that will expire between 2019 and 2035.  As of January 31, 2015, we recorded income taxes receivable of $18.3 million primarily for the portion of the NOL's available to carry back. We also recorded deferred tax assets of $70.1 million, before valuation allowance, for the portion of the NOL's available to carry forward. As of January 31, 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance of $70.0 million against certain of these deferred tax assets related to the NOL carry forwards.  We also recorded a valuation allowance of $40.6 million against other U.S. federal, state and Canadian net deferred tax assets due to losses incurred through fiscal 2013 and projections of future operating results. Subsequent recognition of these deferred tax assets that were previously reduced by the valuation allowance would result in an income tax benefit in the period of such recognition.
	We have not recognized any U.S. tax expense on undistributed Puerto Rico earnings as they are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S.  There were no significant undistributed earnings at January 31, 2015.
	We follow the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”), which clarifies the accounting and disclosure for uncertainty in income taxes. Uncertain tax position liabilities, inclusive of interest and penalties, were $7.2 million as of January 31, 2015, $9.9 million as of February 1, 2014 and $2.7 million as of February 2, 2013.  Reversal of these liabilities, along with reversal of related deferred tax assets, would favorably impact our effective tax rate.
	The amount of unrecognized tax benefits relating to our tax positions is subject to change based on future events including, but not limited to, the settlements of ongoing audits and/or the expiration of applicable statues of limitations. Although the outcomes and timing of such events are highly uncertain, we anticipate that the balance of the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and related deferred tax assets will not significantly change during the next twelve months. However, changes in the occurrence, expected outcomes and timing of those events could cause our current estimate to change materially in the future. Our portion of gross unrecognized tax benefits that would affect our effective tax rate, including interest and penalties, is $7.2 million. Of this amount, $5.3 million was recorded as a direct reduction of the related deferred tax assets.
	We recognize interest and, if applicable, penalties, which could be assessed, related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.  Interest and penalties recorded in fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 were not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements. We had liabilities for accrued interest and penalties of $0.6 million as of January 31, 2015 and $1.2 million as of February 1, 2014.
	Below is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the gross unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain tax positions (excluding interest and penalties), which are recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
		Unrecognized
		Tax Benefits
		(In thousands)
	Balance at January 28, 2012	$	2,813
	Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	96
Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(38		)
Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(991		)
Balance at February 2, 2013	$	1,880
Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	730
Increases due to tax positions related to current year	6,158
Increases due to settlements with taxing authorities	56
Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(195		)
Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(9		)
Balance at February 1, 2014	$	8,620
Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	362
Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(304		)
Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(2,046		)
Balance at January 31, 2015	$	6,632
We file U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico federal, various state and provincial income tax returns.  The IRS concluded an audit of our 2009-2010 federal filings in the second quarter of fiscal 2012, which resulted in no change to the tax returns as filed. Certain tax returns remain open for examination generally for our 2009 through 2013 tax years by various taxing authorities.  However, certain states may keep their statute open for six to ten years.

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
	Leases — We are committed under non-cancellable leases for our entire store, distribution centers and office space locations, which generally provide for minimum rent plus additional increases in real estate taxes and certain operating expenses.  Certain leases also require contingent rent based on sales.
	The aggregate minimum annual real estate rent commitments as of January 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands):
	Due in Fiscal Year	Total
	2015	$	119,112
	2016	102,147
	2017	89,743
	2018	81,231
	2019	69,199
	Thereafter	203,853
	Total	$	665,285
	Additionally, as of January 31, 2015, we were committed to equipment leases in aggregate of $7.4 million through fiscal 2018.
	Rental expense consists of the following (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014		2013		2012
	Minimum rentals for stores		$	150,912	$	145,454	$	138,126
	Contingent rentals		7,728		9,925		16,399
	Office space rentals		6,545		6,399		5,459
	Distribution centers rentals		3,229		3,229		3,229
	Equipment rentals		3,492		4,035		4,347
	Employment Agreements — On August 18, 2014, we entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Geiger pursuant to which he will serve as our Chief Executive Officer. The Employment Agreement, which has a three-year term, provides for an annual salary of $1.5 million in addition to a performance based bonus.
	Additionally, we have contingent bonus compensation agreements with certain of our employees. The bonuses become payable if the individual is employed by us on the future payment date. The amount of conditional bonuses that may be paid is $1.0 million during fiscal 2015 and $0.3 million during fiscal 2016.
	Legal Proceedings - In October 2011, Aéropostale, Inc. and former and current senior executive officers Thomas P. Johnson and Marc D. Miller were named as defendants in an action amended in February 2012, City of Providence v. Aéropostale, Inc., et al., No. 11-7132, a class action lawsuit alleging violations of the federal securities laws.  The lawsuit was filed in New York federal court on behalf of purchasers of Aéropostale securities between March 11, 2011 and August 18, 2011.  The lawsuit alleged that the defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business and prospects and failed to disclose that Aéropostale was experiencing declining demand for its women's fashion division and increasing inventory.  A motion to dismiss was denied on March 25, 2013.  Aéropostale and the plaintiffs entered into a settlement agreement resolving the claims made in this action, without any admission of liability, for the amount of $15.0 million, all of which was funded with insurance proceeds. The settlement received final court approval on May 9, 2014. An individual stockholder filed an appeal of the court May 9, 2014 order approving the settlement, which appeal is now pending in the second circuit.
	Also in October 2011, current and former Aéropostale directors and/or senior executive officers Julian R. Geiger, Ronald R. Beegle, Robert B. Chavez, Michael J. Cunningham, Evelyn Dilsaver, John Haugh, Karin Hirtler-Garvey, John D. Howard, Thomas P. Johnson, and David B. Vermylen were named as defendants in Bell v. Geiger, et al., No. 652931/2011, a shareholder derivative lawsuit filed in New York state court seeking relief derivatively on behalf of Aéropostale.  The action alleged that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to Aéropostale between February 3, 2011 and August 3, 2011 by failing to establish and maintain internal controls that would have prevented the Company from disseminating allegedly false and misleading and inaccurate statements and other information to shareholders, and to manage and oversee the Company.  As a result, plaintiff alleged that the defendants exposed the Company to potential liability in the federal securities class action lawsuit described above.
	In February 2012, current and former Aéropostale directors and/or senior executive officers Mindy Meads, Bodil Arlander, Julian R. Geiger, Karin Hirtler-Garvey, Ronald R. Beegle, Robert B. Chavez, Michael J. Cunningham, Evelyn Dilsaver, John Haugh, John D. Howard, Thomas P. Johnson, Arthur Rubinfeld, and David B. Vermylen were named as defendants in The Booth Family Trust v. Meads, et al., No. 650594/2012, a shareholder derivative lawsuit filed in New York state court, seeking relief derivatively on behalf of Aéropostale.  As in Bell, this action alleges that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to Aéropostale by failing to establish and maintain internal controls that would have prevented the Company from disseminating allegedly false and misleading and inaccurate statements and other information to shareholders, and to manage and oversee the Company.  As a result, and as in Bell, plaintiff alleged that the defendants exposed the Company to losses and damages, including civil liability from the securities class action suit described above.
	On April 24, 2012, the New York Supreme Court, New York County, issued an Order consolidating and staying the Bell and Booth actions pending a ruling on the motion to dismiss filed in the City of Providence federal securities class action. Following denial of the motion to dismiss in the federal securities class action, plaintiff filed an amended complaint in the consolidated Bell/Booth action. On January 7, 2014, the court granted the Defendants motion to dismiss the complaint in the Bell/Booth action and such decision is final.
	During February 2014, we settled litigations related to California wage and hour matters. During fiscal 2014, we made settlement payments of $3.6 million. In addition, we have remaining liabilities previously recorded of $0.8 million as of January 31, 2015 related to these settlements.
	We are also party to various litigation matters and proceedings in the ordinary course of business.  In the opinion of our management, dispositions of these matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	Contingencies - On May 23, 2014, we entered into $150.0 million secured credit facilities with affiliates of Sycamore Partners. In connection with this agreement, we entered into a sourcing agreement with an affiliate of Sycamore Partners that requires us to purchase a minimum volume of product for 10 years. This purchase commitment will commence during the first quarter of fiscal 2016 and is between $240.0 million and $280.0 million per annum depending on the year (see Note 2).
	On February 2, 2015, we renewed a master sourcing agreement with one of our sourcing suppliers. Should we fail to meet annual purchase minimum thresholds in this agreement we would be liable to make certain agreed upon shortfall payments to this sourcing supplier (see Note 19 for a further discussion).
	In June 2012, Bank of America, N.A. issued a stand-by letter of credit. As of January 31, 2015, the outstanding letter of credit was $0.2 million and expires on June 30, 2015. We do not have any other stand-by or commercial letters of credit as of January 31, 2015.
	We have various product license agreements that obligate us to pay the licensee at least the guaranteed minimum royalty amount based on sales of their products.
	We have not issued any third party guarantees or commercial commitments as of January 31, 2015.
	Executive Severance Plan - During November 2013, we adopted a Change of Control Severance Plan (“the Plan”), which entitles certain executive level employees to receive certain payments upon a termination of employment after a change of control (as defined in the Plan) of the Company. The adoption of the Plan did not have any impact on the consolidated financial statements for any periods presented.

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
	The following table sets forth certain unaudited quarterly financial information (in thousands, except per share amounts):
			13 Weeks Ended
			May 3,			August 2,			November 1,			January 31,
			2014 (1)			2014 (2)			2014 (3)			2015 (4)
	Fiscal 2014
	Net sales		$	395,858		$	396,155		$	452,889		$	593,761
	Gross profit		70,497			62,550			68,878			134,513
	Net loss		(76,782		)	(63,819		)	(52,323		)	(13,534		)
	Basic loss per share		(0.98		)	(0.81		)	(0.66		)	(0.17		)
	Diluted loss per share		(0.98		)	(0.81		)	(0.66		)	(0.17		)
			13 Weeks Ended
			May 4,			August 3,			November 2,			February 1,
			2013			2013 (5)			2013 (6)			2014 (7)
	Fiscal 2013
	Net sales		$	452,273		$	454,034		$	514,588		$	670,007
	Gross profit		101,435			81,171			87,889			86,868
	Net income (loss)		(12,168		)	(33,734		)	(25,623		)	(70,306		)
	Basic earnings (loss) per share		(0.16		)	(0.43		)	(0.33		)	(0.90		)
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share		(0.16		)	(0.43		)	(0.33		)	(0.90		)
	-1	Cost of sales and gross profit for the first quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by store asset impairment charges of $2.6 million ($2.5 million after tax, or $0.03 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the first quarter of 2014 included store asset impairment charges of $30.5 million ($29.1 million after tax, or $0.37 per diluted share) and other restructuring charges of $4.0 million ($3.8 million after tax, or $0.05 per diluted share).
	-2	Cost of sales and gross profit for the second quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $19.0 million ($18.5 million after tax, or $0.23 per diluted share). SG&A for the second quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by consulting fees of $3.1 million ($3.0 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the second quarter of 2014 were $3.0 million ($2.9 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). Income tax benefit for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 was unfavorably impacted by the establishment of reserves against net deferred tax assets of $3.4 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share.
	-3	Cost of sales and gross profit for the third quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $12.5 million ($10.9 million after tax, or $0.13 per diluted share) and lease buyout costs of $3.7 million ($3.2 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). SG&A for the third quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by severance costs for our former Chief Executive Officer of $2.3 million ($2.0 million after tax, or $0.03) and was favorably impacted by the reversal of stock-based compensation related to the departure of our former Chief Executive Officer of $2.0 million ($1.8 million after tax, or $0.02 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the third quarter of 2014 were $1.7 million ($1.5 million after tax, or $0.02 per diluted share).
	-4	Cost of sales and gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $12.6 million ($9.9 million after tax, or $0.13 per diluted share). SG&A for the fourth quarter of 2014 were unfavorably impacted by other costs of $2.8 million ($2.2 million after tax, or $0.03 per diluted share), which included severance and consulting costs.
	-5	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 of $8.0 million ($5.2 million after tax, or $0.07 per diluted share).
	-6	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the third quarter of fiscal 2013 of $5.1 million ($2.8 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share).
	-7	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 of $32.4 million ($21.3 million after tax, or $0.27 per diluted share). Income tax benefit for the same period included the establishment of reserves against net deferred tax assets of $20.0 million after tax, or $0.25 per diluted share.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information
	FASB ASC Topic 280, “Segment Reporting” (“ASC 280”), establishes standards for reporting information about a company’s operating segments. We have two reportable segments: a) retail stores and e-commerce; and b) international licensing. Our reportable segments were identified based on how our business is managed and evaluated. The reportable segments represent the Company’s activities for which discrete financial information is available and which is utilized on a regular basis by the Company’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), our Chief Executive Officer, to evaluate performance and allocate resources. The retail stores and e-commerce segment includes the aggregation of the Aéropostale U.S., Aéropostale Canada, P.S. from Aéropostale and GoJane operating segments. In identifying our reportable segments, the Company considers economic characteristics, as well as products, customers, sales growth potential and long-term profitability. The accounting policies of the Company’s reportable segments are consistent with those described in Note 1. All intercompany transactions are eliminated in consolidation. We do not rely on any customer as a major source of revenue.
	The following tables provide summary financial data for each of our segments (in thousands):
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	Net sales:
	Retail stores and e-commerce	$	1,803,997			$	2,069,430			$	2,379,008
	International licensing	34,666				21,472				7,170
	Total net sales	$	1,838,663			$	2,090,902			$	2,386,178
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	(Loss) income from operations:
	Retail stores and e-commerce 1	$	(144,580	)		$	(153,466	)		$	85,859
	International licensing	31,178				20,035				6,285
	Other 2	(99,736		)		(51,775		)		(32,633		)
	Total (loss) income from operations	$	(213,138	)		$	(185,206	)		$	59,511
	1 Such amounts include all corporate overhead and shared service function costs and we have not allocated a portion of these costs to international licensing in this presentation.
	2 Other items include restructuring charges (see Note 3), intangible asset impairment (see Notes 4 and 5), reversal of contingent consideration (see Notes 4 and 5), net lease costs for closed stores and consulting fees in fiscal 2014. It also includes store asset impairment charges in each fiscal year (see Note 4), litigation settlement charges in fiscal 2013 (see Note 15) and other income (charges) that are not included in the segment income (loss) from operations reviewed by the CODM.
	Depreciation expense and capital expenditures have not been separately disclosed as the amounts primarily relate to the retail stores and e-commerce segment. Such amounts are not material for the international licensing segment.
		January 31,				February 1,
		2015				2014
	Total assets:
	Retail stores and e-commerce	$	496,220			$	637,927
	International licensing	15,969				9,714
	Total assets	$	512,189			$	647,641
	The following tables present summarized geographical information (in thousands):
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	Net sales:
	United States 1	$	1,744,738			$	1,973,775			$	2,250,915
	Canada	93,925				117,127				135,263
	Total net sales	$	1,838,663			$	2,090,902			$	2,386,178
	1 Amounts represent sales from U.S. and Puerto Rico retail stores, as well as e-commerce sales, that are billed to and/or shipped to foreign countries and international licensing revenue.
		January 31,				February 1,
		2015				2014
	Long-lived assets, net:
	United States	$	125,695			$	225,778
	Canada	4,414				9,623
	Total long-lived assets, net	$	130,109			$	235,401
	Our consolidated net sales mix by merchandise category for our retail stores and e-commerce segment was as follows:
		Fiscal
	Merchandise Categories	2014			2013			2012
	Young Women’s	65	%		65	%		64	%
	Young Men’s	35	%		35	%		36	%
	Total Merchandise Sales	100	%		100	%		100	%

Related_Parties

Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Parties	Related Parties
	On May 23, 2014, we entered into a strategic sourcing relationship with an affiliate of Sycamore Partners, which included $150.0 million in secured credit facilities. As of May 23, 2014 and December 31, 2014, Lemur LLC, an affiliate of Sycamore Partners owned approximately 8% of our outstanding common stock. Concurrent with, and as a condition to, entering into the Loan Agreement, we issued 1,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock to affiliates of Sycamore Partner at an aggregate offer price of $100 thousand. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock is convertible at any time at the option of the holder on or prior to May 23, 2024 into shares of common stock at an initial conversion rate of 3,932.018 for each share of Series B Preferred Stock. The common stock underlying the Series B Preferred Stock represents 5% of our issued and outstanding common stock as of May 23, 2014 (see Note 2 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion). Stefan Kaluzny, a managing director at Sycamore Partners, joined our Board of Directors upon the closing of this transaction. Sycamore Partners and its affiliates and Mr. Kaluzny are considered related parties due to the agreements described above combined with their ownership interest in us. In addition to the related party transactions presented on the Consolidated Statement of Operations during fiscal 2014, we had the following transactions with these related parties:
	•	Merchandise purchased from an affiliate of Sycamore Partners of $4.0 million that was included in our merchandise inventories as of January 31, 2015,
	•Accounts payable of $4.3 million to an affiliate of Sycamore Partners as of January 31, 2015,
	•Payments of $1.0 million to an affiliate of Sycamore Partners during fiscal 2014, and
	Additionally, Scopia Capital Management, LLC owned approximately 12.5% of our common stock and Fidelity Management & Research Company owned approximately 10.5% of our common stock as of December 31, 2014. Both are considered related parties due to their ownership interest in us. We did not have any transactions with either of these related parties during fiscal 2014.

Subsequent_Event

Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event	Subsequent Event
	On February 2, 2015, we renewed a master sourcing agreement with one of our sourcing suppliers. Under the agreement, we received an advance rebate payment as purchase discount equivalent to approximately $1.75 million per annum throughout the life of the sourcing agreement as commitment of meeting certain minimum thresholds. Should we fail to meet the annual purchase minimum thresholds we would be required to make certain agreed upon shortfall payments, or if we exceed certain minimum purchase thresholds, we would have an opportunity to receive additional purchase discount as rebate payments.

SCHEDULE_IIVALUATION_AND_QUALI

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	SCHEDULE II
	VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
		Balance Beginning		Amounts Charged			Write-offs Against		Balance End
	Reserve for Sales Returns:	of Period		to Net (Loss) Income			Reserve		of Period
		(In thousands)
	Year Ended January 31, 2015	$	157	$	340		$	263	$	234
	Year Ended February 1, 2014	$	496	$	(153	)	$	186	$	157
	Year Ended February 2, 2013	$	676	$	334		$	514	$	496
		Balance Beginning		Amounts Charged			Write-offs Against		Balance End
	Valuation Allowance for U.S. federal and state, and Canadian Deferred Tax Assets:	of Period		to Net (Loss) Income			Reserve		of Period
		(In thousands)
	Year Ended January 31, 2015	$	31,925	$	78,623		$	—	$	110,548
	Year Ended February 1, 2014	$	1,328	$	30,597		$	—	$	31,925
	Year Ended February 2, 2013	$	1,412	$	(84	)	$	—	$	1,328

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation and Presentation	Basis of Consolidation and Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Aéropostale, Inc. and its subsidiaries.  All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Fiscal Year	Fiscal Year
	Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. Fiscal 2014 was the 52-week period ended January 31, 2015, fiscal 2013 was the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 and fiscal 2012 was the 53-week period ended February 2, 2013. Fiscal 2015 will be the 52-week period ending January 30, 2016.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated.
	The most significant estimates made by management include those made in the areas of merchandise inventory valuation, impairment analysis of long-lived assets, exit cost obligations, impairment analysis of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and income taxes. Management periodically evaluates estimates used in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements for continued reasonableness. Appropriate adjustments, if any, to the estimates used are made prospectively based on such periodic evaluations.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents. We invest our excess cash in demand deposits and money market funds that are classified as cash equivalents.  We have established guidelines that relate to credit quality, diversification and maturity and that limit exposure to any one issuer of securities.
Seasonality	Seasonality
	Our business is highly seasonal and historically, we have realized a significant portion of our sales and cash flow in the second half of the fiscal year, attributable to the impact of the back-to-school selling season in the third quarter and the holiday selling season in the fourth quarter. Additionally, working capital requirements fluctuate during the year, increasing in mid-summer in anticipation of the third and fourth quarters.
Translation of Foreign Currency Financial Statements and Foreign Currency Transactions	Translation of Foreign Currency Financial Statements and Foreign Currency Transactions
	The financial statements of our Canadian subsidiary have been translated into United States dollars by translating balance sheet accounts at the year-end exchange rate and statement of operations accounts at the average exchange rates for the year. Foreign currency translation gains and losses are reflected in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheet in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to a permanent investment in our subsidiary in Canada.
	Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are charged or credited to earnings as incurred.
Cash Equivalents	Cash Equivalents
	We include credit card receivables and all short-term investments that qualify as cash equivalents with an original maturity of three months or less in cash and cash equivalents.
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	We follow the guidance in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement Disclosures” (“ASC 820”) as it relates to financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities. Our non-financial assets, which include fixtures, equipment and improvements and intangible assets, are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  However, if certain triggering events occur, or if an impairment test is required and we are required to evaluate the non-financial asset for impairment, we would record an impairment charge if the carrying value of the non-financial asset exceeds its fair value. (See Note 4 for a further discussion).
	We currently have one financial liability measured at fair value. See Note 4 for fair value measurements related to GoJane liabilities. ASC 820 prioritizes inputs used in measuring fair value into a hierarchy of three levels: Level 1—quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2—inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3—unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing.
Merchandise Inventory	Merchandise Inventory
	Merchandise inventory consists of finished goods and is valued utilizing the cost method at the lower of cost or market determined on a weighted average basis. Merchandise inventory includes warehousing, freight, merchandise and design costs as an inventory product cost. We make certain assumptions regarding future demand and net realizable selling price in order to assess that our inventory is recorded properly at the lower of cost or market. These assumptions are based on both historical experience and current information.
Vendor Rebates	Vendor Rebates
	We receive vendor rebates from certain merchandise suppliers. The vendor rebates are earned as we receive merchandise from the suppliers and are computed at an agreed upon percentage of the purchase amount. Vendor rebates are recorded as a reduction of merchandise inventory and are then recognized as a reduction of cost of sales when the related inventory is sold.
Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements	Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements
	Fixtures, equipment and improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided for by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
	Fixtures and equipment	10 years
	Leasehold improvements	Lesser of useful lives or lease term
	Computer equipment	5 years
	Software	3 years
Goodwill and intangible assets	Goodwill and intangible assets
	We estimate and record intangible assets, which primarily consists of trademarks and customer relationships at fair value at the acquisition date.  The fair value of these intangible assets is estimated based on management's assessment, considering independent third party appraisals, as warranted.  Goodwill represents the excess of purchase consideration for an acquired entity over the fair value amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination.
	Goodwill and trademarks with an indefinite life are not amortized, but instead are assessed for impairment at least annually (on the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter) based on comparisons of their respective fair values to their carrying values. Additionally, goodwill and intangible assets are tested for impairment if an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. We test goodwill at the reporting unit level. In connection with the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of GoJane.com, Inc. on November 13, 2012, we allocated $13.9 million of the purchase price to goodwill, which was also its carrying value as of January 31, 2015. A reporting unit is an operating segment for which discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by segment management. We have deemed the GoJane operating segment to be the reporting unit at which goodwill is tested for GoJane.
	ASU No. 2011-08, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Goodwill for Impairment” (“ASU 2011-08”) amended the rules for testing goodwill for impairment and provided an entity with the option to first assess qualitative factors for each reporting unit to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The optional qualitative assessment can be performed at the discretion of management for any or all of the reporting units in any given period. In preparing a qualitative analysis for each of our reporting units, we assess events and circumstances that may impact the fair value and the carrying amount of each reporting unit. The identification of relevant events and circumstances and how these may impact a reporting unit’s fair value or carrying amount involve significant judgments and assumptions. For each reporting unit, we compare its current carrying value as of the testing date to its most recent fair value. Based upon the differential noted, we may decide to perform the first step of the quantitative impairment test or to continue with the qualitative assessment by analyzing whether changes in the business and/or operating environment have occurred since the most recent fair value obtained that may impact this relationship. This assessment includes, but is not limited to, the identification of macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations that currently impact the reporting unit’s operating environment, as well as cost factors, overall financial performance including actual and projected operating results and peer group share price trends. We examine the positive and negative influences of each relevant factor on the reporting unit’s fair value and qualitatively assess the impact that such factors (when considered both individually and in the aggregate) would have on a reporting unit’s fair value since the last full valuation was performed. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that the potential impact of the positive and negative factors do not indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we will conclude that goodwill is not impaired and performance of the two-step quantitative impairment test is not required.
	When quantitatively evaluating goodwill for impairment, we determine the current fair value of the reporting unit by blending results from the market multiples approach and the income approach. These valuation approaches consider a number of factors that include, but are not limited to, expected future cash flows, growth rates, discount rates, and comparable multiples from publicly-traded companies in our industry and require us to make certain assumptions and estimates regarding industry economic factors and future profitability of our business. It is our policy to conduct impairment testing based on our most current business plans, projected future revenues and cash flows, which reflect changes we anticipate in the economy and the industry. The cash flows are based on five-year financial forecasts developed internally by management and are discounted to a present value using discount rates that properly account for the risk and nature of the reporting unit’s cash flows and the rates of return market participants would require to invest their capital in our reporting unit. The outcome of the market multiples and income approaches are heavily dependent upon the aforementioned projections. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, we would then calculate the implied fair value of our reporting unit’s goodwill as compared to its carrying value to determine the appropriate impairment charge, if any. To calculate the implied fair value of goodwill the Company would allocate the reporting unit’s fair value to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical scenario that faithfully represents an acquisition of the reporting unit in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is less than its carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment charge, not to exceed the balance of goodwill.
Evaluation for Long-Lived Asset Impairment	Evaluation for Long-Lived Asset Impairment
	We periodically evaluate the need to recognize impairment losses relating to long-lived assets in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment” (“ASC 360”).  Long-lived assets are evaluated for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset may have been impaired. In evaluating an asset for recoverability, we estimate the future undiscounted net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If the cumulative undiscounted net cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, the net cash flows are then discounted at the Company’s weighted average cost of capital and compared to the carrying value of the assets. The result is a write down of the asset to fair value by recording an impairment charge.  The estimation of fair value is measured by discounting expected future net cash flows.   The recoverability assessment related to store-level assets requires judgments and estimates of future revenues, gross margin rates, store expenses and the weighted average cost of capital.  We base these estimates upon our past and expected future performance.  We believe our estimates are appropriate in light of current market conditions.  However, actual results may differ materially from those estimated which could result in additional impairments of long-lived assets in future periods, and could have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements (See Note 4 for a further discussion).
Pre-Opening Expenses	Pre-Opening Expenses
	New store pre-opening costs are expensed as they are incurred.
Exit Cost Obligations	Exit Cost Obligations
	When stores under long-term leases close, we record a liability at fair value for the future minimum lease payments and related ancillary costs, net of estimated future sublease recoveries. Fair value is determined by estimating net future cash flows and discounting them using a risk-adjusted rate of interest. Reserve estimates and related assumptions are updated on a quarterly basis. If the lease is subsequently terminated, the termination cost, if any, is recorded and the remaining exit cost obligation is reversed at the date of termination.
Leases	Leases
	Our store operating leases typically provide for fixed non-contingent rent escalations. Rent payments under our store leases typically commence when the store opens.  These leases include a pre-opening period that allows us to take possession of the property to fixture and merchandise the store. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis over the non-cancelable term of each individual underlying lease, commencing when we take possession of the property (see Note 15 for further information regarding leases).
	In addition, most store leases require us to pay additional rent based on specified percentages of sales, after we achieve specified annual sales thresholds. We use store sales trends to estimate and record liabilities for these additional rent obligations during interim periods. Most of our store leases entitle us to receive tenant allowances from our landlords. We record these tenant allowances as a deferred rent liability, which we amortize as a reduction of rent expense over the non-cancelable term of each underlying lease.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	Sales revenue is recognized at the “point of sale” in our stores and at the time our e-commerce customers take possession of merchandise. Allowances for sales returns are recorded as a reduction of net sales in the periods in which the related sales are recognized.  Also included in sales revenue is shipping revenue from our e-commerce customers.  Sales tax collected from customers is excluded from revenue and is included in accrued expenses on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Revenue from international licensing arrangements is recognized when earned in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreement, generally based upon the greater of the contractually earned or guaranteed minimum royalty levels.
Gift Cards	Gift Cards
	We sell gift cards to our customers in our retail stores, through our websites and through select third parties. We do not charge administrative fees on unused gift cards and our gift cards do not have an expiration date.  Revenue is not recorded on the purchase of gift cards.  A current liability is recorded upon purchase and revenue is recognized when the gift card or store credits are redeemed for merchandise.  We also recognize breakage income for the portion of gift cards estimated to be unredeemed.  We have relieved our legal obligation to escheat the value of unredeemed gift cards to the relevant jurisdiction.  We therefore determined that the likelihood of certain gift cards being redeemed by the customer was remote, based upon historical redemption patterns of gift cards.  For those gift cards that we determined redemption to be remote, we reversed our liability and recorded gift card breakage income in net sales.
Cost of Sales	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales includes costs related to merchandise sold, including inventory valuation adjustments, distribution and warehousing, freight from the distribution center to the stores, shipping and handling costs, payroll for our design, buying and merchandising departments and occupancy costs. Occupancy costs include rent, contingent rents, common area maintenance, real estate taxes, utilities, repairs and maintenance, depreciation and amortization and impairment charges.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses, or “SG&A”, include costs related to selling expenses, store management and corporate expenses such as payroll and employee benefits, marketing expenses, employment taxes, information technology maintenance costs and expenses, insurance and legal expenses, e-commerce transaction related expenses, store pre-opening costs and other corporate level expenses. Store pre-opening costs include store level payroll, grand opening event marketing, travel, supplies and other store pre-opening expenses.
Self-Insurance	Self-Insurance
	We self-insure our workers compensation claims and our employee medical benefits. The recorded liabilities for these obligations are calculated primarily using historical experience and current information. The liabilities include amounts for actual claims and estimated claims incurred but not yet reported.
Retirement Benefit Plans	Retirement Benefit Plans
	Our retirement benefit plan costs are accounted for using actuarial valuations required by FASB ASC Topic 715 “Compensation – Retirement Benefits” (“ASC 715”).  ASC 715 requires an entity to recognize the funded status of its defined pension plans on the balance sheet and to recognize changes in the funded status that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, within other comprehensive (loss) income, net of income taxes (see Note 13 for a further discussion).
Marketing Costs	Marketing Costs
	Marketing costs, which include e-commerce, print, radio and other media advertising, are expensed at the point of first broadcast or distribution,
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation
	We follow the provisions from the FASB ASC Topic 718 “Compensation – Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718”). Under such guidance, all forms of share-based payment to employees and directors, including stock options, must be treated as compensation and recognized in the statements of operations (see Note 12 for a further discussion).
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”).  Under ASC 740, income taxes are recognized for the amount of taxes payable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequence of events that have been recognized differently in the financial statements than for tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established using statutory tax rates and are adjusted for tax rate changes.
	ASC 740 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an entity’s financial statements and requires companies to determine whether it is “more likely than not” that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authorities before any part of the benefit can be recorded in the financial statements. For those tax positions where it is not “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit is recognized. Where applicable, associated interest and penalties are also recorded.  Interest and penalties, if any, are recorded within the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and are classified on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with the related liability for uncertain tax contingency liabilities.
	A valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  In determining the need for a valuation allowance, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including historical operating results, forecasted future earnings, taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which we operate, tax planning strategies and other relevant factors.  The need for and the amount of valuation allowances can change in future periods if operating results and projections change significantly.
Recent Accounting Developments	Recent Accounting Developments
	In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern ("ASU 2014-15"). Under ASU 2014-15, management is required to perform interim and annual assessments of an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued. An entity must provide certain disclosures if “conditions or events raise substantial doubt about [the] entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.” The new standard applies to all entities and is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and interim periods thereafter, with early adoption permitted. Management is still assessing the impact of the adoption to our consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASU 2014-09"). It outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that “an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.” ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. Management is still assessing the impact of the adoption to our consolidated financial statements.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity ("ASU 2014-08"). Under ASU 2014-08, only disposals that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the entity’s results and operations would qualify as discontinued operations. In addition, the ASU expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation, requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components and defines “discontinued operations” similarly to how it is defined under International Financial Reporting Standards 5, Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations. The ASU is effective prospectively for all disposals (except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date) or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We have elected to early adopt this guidance effective as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014. See Note 3 for the impact of the adoption.
	In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update 2013-11, Income Taxes ("ASU 2013-11") which requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, with certain exceptions. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, with early adoption permitted. This guidance became effective prospectively for the Company in the first quarter of 2014. The adoption did not have a material impact to the overall tax provision of Aéropostale.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Estimated Useful Lives of Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements	Fixtures, equipment and improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided for by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
	Fixtures and equipment	10 years
	Leasehold improvements	Lesser of useful lives or lease term
	Computer equipment	5 years
	Software	3 years

Restructuring_Program_and_Othe1

Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Restructuring Costs [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	The following is a summary of expenses, recognized in restructuring charges in the statement of operations, incurred during fiscal 2014 associated with this program:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31, 2015
		(In thousands)
	Severance	$	4,114
	Reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent, net of lease termination costs	(4,702		)
	Exit cost obligations, net of reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent 1	6,385
	Impairment charges	30,497
	Other exit costs	4,062
	Total	$	40,356
	The Company accrued liabilities for the above mentioned restructuring charges as of January 31, 2015 as follows:
		Impairments			Severance			Lease Costs 1			Unamortized Tenant Allowance and Deferred Rent			Other Exit Costs			Total
		(In thousands)
	Liability/Charge at Program Inception	$	30,497		$	1,060		$	1,046		$	(17,718	)	$	1,886		$	16,771
	Additions	—			3,054			18,355			—			2,176			23,585
	Paid or Utilized	(30,497		)	(4,086		)	(6,808		)				(4,062		)	(45,453		)
	Adjustments	—			—			—			17,718			—			17,718
	Liability as of January 31, 2015	$	—		$	28		$	12,593		$	—		$	—		$	12,621
	1 Includes liabilities of $12.6 million related to stores that were closed during fiscal 2014 for which the leases had not been terminated. The liabilities represent the present value of the remaining lease obligations net of estimated sublease income. If leases are subsequently terminated the related exit cost obligations will be reversed at that time and the termination cost, if any, would be recorded. Of these liabilities, $8.5 million is recorded in accrued expenses and other current liabilities and the balance is included in non-current liabilities.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	In accordance with the fair value hierarchy described above, the following table shows the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities that are required to be remeasured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		Level 1						Level 2						Level 3
		January 31,			February 1,			January 31,			February 1,			January 31,			February 1,
		2015			2014			2015			2014			2015			2014
		(In thousands)
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents 1	$	110,022		$	82,378		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Total	$	110,022		$	82,378		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Liabilities:
	GoJane performance plan liability 2	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,446		$	7,416
	Total	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,446		$	7,416
	1 Cash and cash equivalents include money market investments valued as Level 1 inputs in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates their carrying value due to their short-term maturities.
	2 Under the terms of the fiscal 2012 GoJane acquisition agreement, the purchase price also includes contingent cash payments of up to an aggregate of $8.0 million if certain financial metrics are achieved by the GoJane business during the five year period beginning on the acquisition date (the "GJ Performance Plan"). These performance payments are not contingent upon continuous employment by the two individual stockholders. The GJ Performance Plan liability is measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs as defined in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the contingent payments as of the acquisition date was estimated to be $7.0 million. This was based on a weighted average expected achievement probability and a discount rate over the expected payment stream. Each quarter, we remeasure the GJ Performance Plan liability at fair value. During the fourth quarter of 2014, we remeasured the liability and reversed $4.5 million based on the probability of achieving the payment targets.
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the GJ Performance Plan measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31, 2015			February 1, 2014
		(In thousands)
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,416		$	7,019
	Accretion of interest expense	121			397
	GoJane consideration payment	(1,600		)	—
	Subsequent remeasurement	(4,491		)	—
	Balance at end of period	$	1,446		$	7,416
Fair Value of Long-Lived Assets Impaired	The table below sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the fair value of long-lived assets and intangible assets for which impairment was recognized during the year:
			Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)						Total Losses
												Total Fair Value
			(In thousands)
	January 31, 2015:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	7,904		$	7,904		$	77,224
	Intangible assets		—			—			6,300			6,300			5,100
	February 1, 2014:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	11,687		$	11,687		$	46,070
	February 2, 2013:
	Long-lived assets held and used		$	—		$	—		$	4,237		$	4,237		$	32,633

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc_T

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc. (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	Total consideration of $32.6 million was allocated to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date, as follows, with the remaining unallocated purchase price recorded to goodwill (in thousands):
	Total cash consideration		$	25,556
	Assets acquired:
	Inventory		2,961
	Other assets		162
	Intangible assets:
	Trademarks		11,400
	Customer relationships		3,400
	E-commerce software platform		800
	Total assets acquired		$	18,723
	Liabilities assumed		(67		)
	Contingent consideration recognized		(7,019		)
	Net assets acquired		$	11,637
	Goodwill		$	13,919
Schedule of Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination	Intangible Assets
	Intangible assets consist of the following:
			31-Jan-15
	Description		Gross Carrying Amount			Impairment			Accumulated Amortization		Net
			(In thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer relationships		$	3,400		$	—		$	1,093	$	2,307
	E-commerce software platform		800			—			598		202
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization		4,200			—			1,691		2,509
	Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Trademarks		11,400			(5,100		)	—		6,300
	Total intangible assets		$	15,600		$	(5,100	)	$	1,691	$	8,809
			1-Feb-14
	Description		Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization			Net
			(In thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer relationships		$	3,400		$	607		$	2,793
	E-commerce software platform		800			332			468
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization		4,200			939			3,261
	Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Trademarks		11,400			—			11,400
	Total intangible assets		$	15,600		$	939		$	14,661
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	Based on the amount of intangible assets subject to amortization as of January 31, 2015, the expected amortization for each of the next five fiscal years and thereafter is as follows:
		Amortization Expense
		(In thousands)
	Fiscal 2015	$	686
	Fiscal 2016	486
	Fiscal 2017	486
	Fiscal 2018	486
	Fiscal 2019	365
	Thereafter	—
	Total	$	2,509

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	The following table sets forth the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
		January 31,			February 1,
		2015			2014
		(In thousands)
	Pension liability, net of tax	$	1,937		$	(2,007	)
	Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment 1	1,161			824
	Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	3,098		$	(1,183	)
	1 Foreign currency translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to a permanent investment in our subsidiary in Canada.
Schedule of changes in components in accumulated other comprehensive loss	The changes in components in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Jan-15
		Pension Liability			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
		(In thousands)
	Beginning balance at February 2, 2014	$	(2,007	)	$	824		$	(1,183	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	—			337			337
	Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	3,944			—			3,944
	Tax effect on pension liability	—			—			—
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	3,944			337			4,281
	Ending balance at January 31, 2015	$	1,937		$	1,161		$	3,098
		Fiscal Year Ended
		February 1, 2014
		Pension Liability			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
		(In thousands)
	Beginning balance at February 3, 2013	$	(2,541	)	$	2,731		$	190
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	—			(1,907		)	(1,907		)
	Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	1,749			—			1,749
	Tax effect on pension liability	(1,215		)	—			(1,215		)
	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	534			(1,907		)	(1,373		)
	Ending balance at February 1, 2014	$	(2,007	)	$	824		$	(1,183	)

Fixtures_Equipment_and_Improve1

Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements	Fixtures, equipment and improvements consist of the following (in thousands):
		January 31, 2015		February 1, 2014
	Leasehold improvements	$	211,889	$	316,581
	Fixtures and equipment	98,062		144,767
	Computer equipment and software	115,381		127,773
	Construction in progress	2,785		3,615
		428,117		592,736
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	298,008		357,335
		$	130,109	$	235,401

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur1

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Schedule of accrued expenses and other current liabilities	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:
		January 31,		February 1,
		2015		2014
		(In thousands)
	Accrued gift cards	$	22,164	$	27,783
	Accrued compensation	19,770		16,939
	Current portion of exit cost obligations	10,771		—
	Current portion of SERP liability	6,044		—
	Accrued rent	5,204		6,574
	Other	46,607		50,820
	Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$	110,560	$	102,116

Noncurrent_Liabilities_Tables

Non-current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of non-current liabilities	Non-current liabilities consist of the following:
		January 31,		February 1,
		2015		2014
		(In thousands)
	Deferred rent	$	38,407	$	46,831
	Deferred tenant allowance	25,262		51,189
	Non-current portion of exit cost obligations	6,277		—
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities	5,060		14,339
	Uncertain tax contingency liabilities	1,917		3,702
	Other	4,325		10,527
	Total non-current liabilities	$	81,248	$	126,588

Loss_Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

(Loss) Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computations of basic and diluted earnings per share	The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		January 31,			February 1,			February 2, 2013
		2015			2014
	Net (loss) income	$	(206,458	)	$	(141,831	)	$	34,923
	Weighted average basic shares	78,862			78,455			80,069
	Impact of dilutive securities	—			—			425
	Weighted average diluted shares	78,862			78,455			80,494
	Basic (loss) earnings per share	$	(2.62	)	$	(1.81	)	$	0.44
	Diluted (loss) earnings per share	$	(2.62	)	$	(1.81	)	$	0.43

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule restricted stock units outstanding	The following table summarizes restricted stock units outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	230		$	9.05
	Granted	325		4.79
	Vested	(419	)	6.02
	Modified	262		2.73
	Cancelled	—		—
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	398		$	4.6
Schedule of Cash-Settled Restricted Stock Units Activity	The following table summarizes cash-settled restricted stock units outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	—		$	—
	Granted	1,219		4.93
	Vested	(80	)	2.89
	Modified	(262	)	2.73
	Canceled	(130	)	4.03
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	747		$	2.44
Summary of non-vested shares of stock outstanding	The following table summarizes non-vested shares of stock outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	1,856		$	14.82
	Granted	299		4.5
	Vested	(569	)	18.13
	Cancelled	(135	)	12.36
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	1,451		$	11.61
Summary of performance shares of stock outstanding	The following table summarizes performance shares of stock outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Performance-based					Market-based
		Performance Shares					Performance Shares
		Shares		Weighted Average			Shares			Weighted Average
				Grant-Date Fair Value						Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)					(In thousands)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	—		$	—		391			$	20.01
	Granted	—		—			677			5.34
	Vested	—		—			—			—
	Cancelled	—		—			(579	)		11.11
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	—		$	—		489			$	10.25
Schedule unrecognized compensation cost and the weighted-average years expected to be recognized related to performance share awards outstanding	The following table summarizes unrecognized compensation cost and the weighted-average years expected to recognize related to performance share awards outstanding as of January 31, 2015:
		Performance-based			Market-based
		Performance Shares			Performance Shares
	Total unrecognized compensation (in thousands)	$	—		$	2,456
	Weighted-average years expected to recognize compensation cost (years)	0			2
Stock options activity table	The following table summarizes stock option transactions for common stock during fiscal 2014:
		Number of Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
		(In thousands)					(In years)		(In millions)
	Outstanding as of February 2, 2014	377		$	16.61
	Granted	2,030		3.24
	Exercised	—		—
	Cancelled1	(160	)	15.35
	Outstanding as of January 31, 2015	2,247		$	4.62		5.99		$	—
	Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest2	2,247		$	4.62		5.99		$	—
	Exercisable as of January 31, 2015	212		$	17.57		0.51		$	—
	1 The number of options cancelled includes approximately 155,000 expired shares.
	2 The number of options expected to vest takes into consideration estimated expected forfeitures.
Summary of information regarding non-vested outstanding options	The following table summarizes information regarding non-vested outstanding stock options as of January 31, 2015:
				Weighted Average
		Shares		Grant-Date Fair Value
		(In thousands)
	Non-vested as of February 2, 2014	10		$	6.41
	Granted	2,030		1.51
	Vested	—		—
	Cancelled	(5	)	6.43
	Non-vested as of January 31, 2015	2,035		$	1.52

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Table

Retirement Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Retirement benefit plan liabilities	Retirement benefit plan liabilities consisted of the following:
		January 31, 2015		February 1, 2014
		(In thousands)
	Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”)	$	7,531	$	10,551
	Other retirement plan liabilities	4,226		4,050
	Total	11,757		14,601
	Less amount classified in accrued expenses related to SERP	6,044		—
	Less amount classified in accrued expenses related to other retirement plan liabilities	653		262
	Long-term retirement benefit plan liabilities	$	5,060	$	14,339

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic and Foreign Pretax Income	Domestic and foreign pretax (loss) income is as follows (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014				2013				2012
	Domestic		$	(196,394	)		$	(154,148	)		$	78,550
	Foreign		(25,527		)		(31,971		)		(19,524		)
	Total (loss) income before (benefit) provision for income taxes		$	(221,921	)		$	(186,119	)		$	59,026
Components of Provision For Income Taxes	The (benefit) provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal		$	(19,313	)		$	(45,615	)		$	32,740
	State and local		(1,823		)		2,035				1,930
	Foreign		1,269				1,052				(1,707		)
			$	(19,867	)		$	(42,528	)		$	32,963
	Deferred:
	Federal		$	—			$	(5,981	)		$	(5,234	)
	State and local		4,440				1,707				(1,556		)
	Foreign		(36		)		2,514				(2,070		)
			$	4,404			$	(1,760	)		$	(8,860	)
			$	(15,463	)		$	(44,288	)		$	24,103
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	Reconciliation of the U.S. statutory tax rate with our effective tax rate is summarized as follows:
			Fiscal
			2014			2013			2012
	Federal statutory tax rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	(Decrease) increase in tax resulting from:
	Foreign income taxes		(0.8	)%		(4.2	)%		4.5	%
	State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1.2	)%		(1.8	)%		(1.6	)%
	Federal income tax valuation allowance		(25.2	)%		(4.8	)%		—	%
	Other		(0.8	)%		(0.4	)%		2.9	%
	Effective rate		7	%		23.8	%		40.8	%
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The components of the net deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows (in thousands):
			31-Jan-15				1-Feb-14
	Current:
	Inventory		$	(8,861	)		$	(7,094	)
	Unredeemed gift cards		3,251				3,620
	Accrued compensation		4,085				1,930
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities		2,371				—
	Other		5,382				1,681
	Net current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance		$	6,228			$	137
	Valuation allowance		(6,184		)		(42		)
	Net current deferred tax assets		$	44			$	95
	Non-current:
	Furniture, equipment and improvements		$	9,474			$	433
	Retirement benefit plan liabilities		1,985				5,624
	Stock-based compensation		8,786				7,423
	Deferred rent and tenant allowances		5,444				10,354
	Net operating loss carry-forwards (“NOL’s”)		70,118				15,083
	Other		9,015				(2,222		)
	Net non-current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance		104,822				36,695
	Valuation allowance		(104,364		)		(31,883		)
	Net non-current deferred tax assets		$	458			$	4,812
	Net deferred income tax assets		$	502			$	4,907
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation	Below is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the gross unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain tax positions (excluding interest and penalties), which are recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
		Unrecognized
		Tax Benefits
		(In thousands)
	Balance at January 28, 2012	$	2,813
	Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	96
	Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(38		)
	Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(991		)
	Balance at February 2, 2013	$	1,880
	Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	730
	Increases due to tax positions related to current year	6,158
	Increases due to settlements with taxing authorities	56
	Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(195		)
	Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(9		)
	Balance at February 1, 2014	$	8,620
	Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	362
	Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	(304		)
	Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	(2,046		)
	Balance at January 31, 2015	$	6,632

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia1

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Aggregate Minimum Annual Real Estate Rent Commitments	The aggregate minimum annual real estate rent commitments as of January 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands):
	Due in Fiscal Year	Total
	2015	$	119,112
	2016	102,147
	2017	89,743
	2018	81,231
	2019	69,199
	Thereafter	203,853
	Total	$	665,285
Rental Expense	Rental expense consists of the following (in thousands):
			Fiscal
			2014		2013		2012
	Minimum rentals for stores		$	150,912	$	145,454	$	138,126
	Contingent rentals		7,728		9,925		16,399
	Office space rentals		6,545		6,399		5,459
	Distribution centers rentals		3,229		3,229		3,229
	Equipment rentals		3,492		4,035		4,347

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D1

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	The following table sets forth certain unaudited quarterly financial information (in thousands, except per share amounts):
			13 Weeks Ended
			May 3,			August 2,			November 1,			January 31,
			2014 (1)			2014 (2)			2014 (3)			2015 (4)
	Fiscal 2014
	Net sales		$	395,858		$	396,155		$	452,889		$	593,761
	Gross profit		70,497			62,550			68,878			134,513
	Net loss		(76,782		)	(63,819		)	(52,323		)	(13,534		)
	Basic loss per share		(0.98		)	(0.81		)	(0.66		)	(0.17		)
	Diluted loss per share		(0.98		)	(0.81		)	(0.66		)	(0.17		)
			13 Weeks Ended
			May 4,			August 3,			November 2,			February 1,
			2013			2013 (5)			2013 (6)			2014 (7)
	Fiscal 2013
	Net sales		$	452,273		$	454,034		$	514,588		$	670,007
	Gross profit		101,435			81,171			87,889			86,868
	Net income (loss)		(12,168		)	(33,734		)	(25,623		)	(70,306		)
	Basic earnings (loss) per share		(0.16		)	(0.43		)	(0.33		)	(0.90		)
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share		(0.16		)	(0.43		)	(0.33		)	(0.90		)
	-1	Cost of sales and gross profit for the first quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by store asset impairment charges of $2.6 million ($2.5 million after tax, or $0.03 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the first quarter of 2014 included store asset impairment charges of $30.5 million ($29.1 million after tax, or $0.37 per diluted share) and other restructuring charges of $4.0 million ($3.8 million after tax, or $0.05 per diluted share).
	-2	Cost of sales and gross profit for the second quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $19.0 million ($18.5 million after tax, or $0.23 per diluted share). SG&A for the second quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by consulting fees of $3.1 million ($3.0 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the second quarter of 2014 were $3.0 million ($2.9 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). Income tax benefit for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 was unfavorably impacted by the establishment of reserves against net deferred tax assets of $3.4 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share.
	-3	Cost of sales and gross profit for the third quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $12.5 million ($10.9 million after tax, or $0.13 per diluted share) and lease buyout costs of $3.7 million ($3.2 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share). SG&A for the third quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by severance costs for our former Chief Executive Officer of $2.3 million ($2.0 million after tax, or $0.03) and was favorably impacted by the reversal of stock-based compensation related to the departure of our former Chief Executive Officer of $2.0 million ($1.8 million after tax, or $0.02 per diluted share). Restructuring charges for the third quarter of 2014 were $1.7 million ($1.5 million after tax, or $0.02 per diluted share).
	-4	Cost of sales and gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2014 was unfavorably impacted by asset impairment charges of $12.6 million ($9.9 million after tax, or $0.13 per diluted share). SG&A for the fourth quarter of 2014 were unfavorably impacted by other costs of $2.8 million ($2.2 million after tax, or $0.03 per diluted share), which included severance and consulting costs.
	-5	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 of $8.0 million ($5.2 million after tax, or $0.07 per diluted share).
	-6	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the third quarter of fiscal 2013 of $5.1 million ($2.8 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted share).
	-7	Cost of sales and gross profit reflect asset impairment charges recorded during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 of $32.4 million ($21.3 million after tax, or $0.27 per diluted share). Income tax benefit for the same period included the establishment of reserves against net deferred tax assets of $20.0 million after tax, or $0.25 per diluted share.

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of net sales by segment	The following tables provide summary financial data for each of our segments (in thousands):
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	Net sales:
	Retail stores and e-commerce	$	1,803,997			$	2,069,430			$	2,379,008
	International licensing	34,666				21,472				7,170
	Total net sales	$	1,838,663			$	2,090,902			$	2,386,178
Schedule of (loss) income from operations by segment
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	(Loss) income from operations:
	Retail stores and e-commerce 1	$	(144,580	)		$	(153,466	)		$	85,859
	International licensing	31,178				20,035				6,285
	Other 2	(99,736		)		(51,775		)		(32,633		)
	Total (loss) income from operations	$	(213,138	)		$	(185,206	)		$	59,511
	1 Such amounts include all corporate overhead and shared service function costs and we have not allocated a portion of these costs to international licensing in this presentation.
	2 Other items include restructuring charges (see Note 3), intangible asset impairment (see Notes 4 and 5), reversal of contingent consideration (see Notes 4 and 5), net lease costs for closed stores and consulting fees in fiscal 2014. It also includes store asset impairment charges in each fiscal year (see Note 4), litigation settlement charges in fiscal 2013 (see Note 15) and other income (charges) that are not included in the segment income (loss) from operations reviewed by the CODM.
Schedule of assets by segment	Depreciation expense and capital expenditures have not been separately disclosed as the amounts primarily relate to the retail stores and e-commerce segment. Such amounts are not material for the international licensing segment.
		January 31,				February 1,
		2015				2014
	Total assets:
	Retail stores and e-commerce	$	496,220			$	637,927
	International licensing	15,969				9,714
	Total assets	$	512,189			$	647,641
Schedule of net sales and long-lived assets by geographic information	The following tables present summarized geographical information (in thousands):
		Fiscal
		2014				2013				2012
	Net sales:
	United States 1	$	1,744,738			$	1,973,775			$	2,250,915
	Canada	93,925				117,127				135,263
	Total net sales	$	1,838,663			$	2,090,902			$	2,386,178
	1 Amounts represent sales from U.S. and Puerto Rico retail stores, as well as e-commerce sales, that are billed to and/or shipped to foreign countries and international licensing revenue.
		January 31,				February 1,
		2015				2014
	Long-lived assets, net:
	United States	$	125,695			$	225,778
	Canada	4,414				9,623
	Total long-lived assets, net	$	130,109			$	235,401
Schedules of consolidated net sales mix by merchandise category for our retail stores and e-commerce segment	Our consolidated net sales mix by merchandise category for our retail stores and e-commerce segment was as follows:
		Fiscal
	Merchandise Categories	2014			2013			2012
	Young Women’s	65	%		65	%		64	%
	Young Men’s	35	%		35	%		36	%
	Total Merchandise Sales	100	%		100	%		100	%

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies -(Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 28, 2012	23-May-14	Nov. 13, 2012
Organization
Fiscal year	365 days	371 days	365 days
Our Business and Liquidity
Net cash used in operating activities	$55,710,000	$38,373,000	($144,811,000)
Cash and cash equivalents	151,750,000	106,517,000	231,501,000	151,750,000	223,712,000
Other working capital	150,400,000			150,400,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0	0		0
Remaining borrowing capacity	116,800,000			116,800,000
Cash available in excess of minimum liquidity coverage	198,600,000			198,600,000
Translation of Foreign Currency Financial Statements and Foreign Currency Transactions
Unrealized foreign currency adjustment	1,200,000	800,000		1,200,000
Merchandise Inventory
Inventory adjustments	15,500,000	27,600,000		15,500,000
Vendor Rebates
Vendor rebates recorded as reduction of merchandise inventory	500,000	900,000		500,000
Vendor rebates recorded as reduction of cost of sales	6,100,000	9,700,000	10,100,000
Goodwill
Goodwill	13,919,000	13,919,000		13,919,000
Intangible asset impairment	5,100,000	0	0
Revenue Recognition
Revenues relating to licensing arrangements in net sales	34,700,000	21,500,000	7,200,000
Net sales related to gift card breakage income	4,900,000	5,800,000	3,700,000
Self-Insurance
Self-insurance liabilities	5,700,000	5,200,000		5,700,000
Workers compensation claims paid	900,000	900,000	1,000,000
Employee medical claims paid	15,400,000	16,200,000	14,100,000
Marketing Costs
Marketing costs expensed	26,700,000	22,400,000	17,500,000
Aeropostale and P.S. from Aeropostale
Organization
Number of stores	860			860
Number of International Stores	239			239
Aeropostale
Organization
Number of stores in 50 states and Puerto Rico	773			773
Number of states with Aeropostale stores	50			50
Number of Aeropostale stores in Canada	61			61
P.S. from Aeropostale
Organization
Number of P.S. from Aeropostale stores	26			26
Number of states with P.S. from Aeropostale stores	12			12
Merchandise vendors
Concentration of Credit Risk
Percentage of merchandise sourced to top five merchandise vendors (in hundredths)	81.00%	83.00%
Loan Agreement
Our Business and Liquidity
Minimum liquidity covenant						70,000,000
GoJane
Goodwill
Goodwill							13,919,000
Goodwill, fair value in excess of carrying value	9.00%			9.00%
Trademarks | GoJane
Goodwill
Intangible assets	6,300,000			6,300,000			11,400,000
Intangible asset impairment				$5,100,000

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies -(Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Fixtures and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life	10 years
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life	Lesser of useful lives or lease term
Computer equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life	5 years
Software
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life	3 years

Closing_of_1500_Million_Financ1

Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction -Financing Transaction (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	23-May-14	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
	unit_of_accounting
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)		$0.01	$0.01
Number of units of accounting or elements included in arrangement	4
Net proceeds from Sycamore transaction		$137,648,000	$0	$0
Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	150,000,000	150,000,000
Number of tranches	2
Net proceeds from Sycamore transaction	137,600,000
Loan Agreement | Tranche A Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	100,000,000	100,000,000
Facility term	5 years
Loan Agreement | Tranche B Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	50,000,000	$50,000,000
Facility term	10 years
Series B Preferred Stock
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stock issued during period (shares)	1,000
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)	0.01
Conversion price (usd per share)	7.25
Conversion ratio	3,932.02
Expected term	10 years
Risk free interest rate	2.54%
Expected volatility rate	50.00%
Affiliated Entity
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Common stock ownership percentage by related party	8.00%

Closing_of_1500_Million_Financ2

Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction -Loan Agreement (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	23-May-14	Feb. 01, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Indebtedness to related party	$138,540,000		$0
Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum liquidity covenant		70,000,000
Noncurrent deferred finance costs		5,900,000
Principal amount	150,000,000	150,000,000
Related party interest expense	6,800,000
Loan Agreement | Tranche A Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		10.00%
Interest rate, first three years, can be paid-in-kind		50.00%
Interest rate, after two years, paid-in-kind		20.00%
Prepaid interest		10,000,000
Percent of principal amount prepaid on or before first anniversary of the closing date		10.00%
Prepayment requirement percent of principal amount prepaid on or before second anniversary of the closing date		5.00%
Effective interest rate		7.19%
Long-term debt, fair value		101,700,000
Unamortized premium		1,700,000
Principal amount	100,000,000	100,000,000
Loan Agreement | Tranche B Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of loan amount to be repaid per year		10.00%
Effective interest rate		7.86%
Long-term debt, fair value		30,000,000
Unamortized discount		20,000,000
Principal amount	50,000,000	50,000,000
Fair Value | Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Indebtedness to related party	135,200,000
Fair Value | Loan Agreement | Tranche A Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Indebtedness to related party	105,900,000
Fair Value | Loan Agreement | Tranche B Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Indebtedness to related party	29,300,000
Carrying Value | Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Indebtedness to related party	138,500,000
Carrying Value | Loan Agreement | Tranche A Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	106,900,000
Carrying Value | Loan Agreement | Tranche B Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	$31,600,000

Closing_of_1500_Million_Financ3

Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction -Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (Details) (Series B Preferred Stock, USD $)	0 Months Ended
	23-May-14	23-May-14
Series B Preferred Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of preferred stock (shares)	1,000
Aggregate share price of shares issued	$100,000
Conversion ratio	3,932.02
Percent of common shares available for conversion	5.00%	5.00%
Conversion price (usd per share)	$7.25	$7.25
Adjustment to additional paid in capital, preferred stock, fair value	$5,900,000

Closing_of_1500_Million_Financ4

Closing of $150.0 Million Financing Transaction -Non-Exclusive Sourcing Agreement (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
	23-May-14
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Term of purchase obligation	10 years
Advance notice period of sourcing agreement termination	9 months
Minimum period before sourcing agreement can be terminated	3 years
Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount of guaranteed minimum product purchase commitment	240,000,000
Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount of guaranteed minimum product purchase commitment	280,000,000

Restructuring_Program_and_Othe2

Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs -Narrative (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Apr. 30, 2014
	position	Stores	Stores			Stores
	Stores
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected Stores closed	126					126
Number of stores closed, inception to date		126	126
Positions eliminated	100
Number of Stores Closed		115
Restructuring charges			$40,356,000	$0	$0
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring liability		8,500,000	8,500,000
P.S. from Aeropostale | Strategic Shift
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of Stores Closed		115
Pretax losses for disposal group			43,100,000	20,600,000	15,900,000
Asset Impairment charges			30,200,000	8,300,000	8,900,000
Aeropostale | Real Estate Portfolio Optimization
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring liability		1,500,000	1,500,000
Number of Stores Closed		77	122
Aeropostale | Real Estate Portfolio Optimization | Contract Termination
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges			2,700,000
Aeropostale | Real Estate Portfolio Optimization | Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges			1,700,000
Aeropostale | Real Estate Portfolio Optimization | Facility Closing
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring liability		4,500,000	$4,500,000

Restructuring_Program_and_Othe3

Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs -Summary of Expenses Incurred (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$40,356	$0	$0
Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	40,356
Severance | Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	4,114
Reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent, net of lease termination costs | Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	-4,702
Exit cost obligations, net of reversal of unamortized tenant allowances and deferred rent | Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	6,385
Impairment charges | Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	30,497
Other exit costs | Restructuring Charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$4,062

Restructuring_Program_and_Othe4

Restructuring Program and Other Store Exit Costs -Accrued Liabilities for Restructuring (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Additions	$40,356	$0	$0
2014 Restructuring
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	16,771
Additions	23,585
Paid or Utilized	-45,453
Adjustments	17,718
Liability as of January 31, 2015	12,621
2014 Restructuring | Impairment charges
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	30,497
Additions	0
Paid or Utilized	-30,497
Adjustments	0
Liability as of January 31, 2015	0
2014 Restructuring | Severance
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	1,060
Additions	3,054
Paid or Utilized	-4,086
Adjustments	0
Liability as of January 31, 2015	28
2014 Restructuring | Lease Costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	1,046
Additions	18,355
Paid or Utilized	-6,808
Adjustments	0
Liability as of January 31, 2015	12,593
2014 Restructuring | Unamortized Tenant Allowance and Deferred Rent
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	-17,718
Additions	0
Paid or Utilized
Adjustments	17,718
Liability as of January 31, 2015	0
2014 Restructuring | Other exit costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability/Charge at Program Inception	1,886
Additions	2,176
Paid or Utilized	-4,062
Adjustments	0
Liability as of January 31, 2015	$0

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Nov. 13, 2012	Jan. 31, 2015
	Stores	Stores	Stores
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total losses	$77,224,000	$46,070,000	$32,633,000
Number of stores impaired	341	230	119
Cost of Sales
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total losses	46,700,000
GoJane
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Business acquisition, cost of contingent consideration				8,000,000
Duration for contingent consideration				5 years
Number of individual stockholders of acquired business				2
Contingent consideration recognized				7,019,000
Long-lived assets held and used, total losses					5,100,000
GJ Performance Plan
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Subsequent remeasurement	-4,491,000	0			-4,500,000
Liability value		7,416,000	7,019,000
GJ Performance Plan | Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Liability value		1,600,000
GJ Performance Plan | Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Liability value	1,446,000	7,400,000			1,446,000
Facility Closing | Restructuring Charges
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total losses	$30,500,000

Fair_Value_Measurements_Schedu

Fair Value Measurements - Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Assets:
Cash equivalents	$110,022	$82,378
Total	110,022	82,378
Liabilities:
Go Jane performance plan liability	0	0
Total	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Assets:
Cash equivalents	0	0
Total	0	0
Liabilities:
Go Jane performance plan liability	0	0
Total	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets:
Cash equivalents	0	0
Total	0	0
Liabilities:
Go Jane performance plan liability	1,446	7,416
Total	$1,446	$7,416

Fair_Value_Measurements_Signif

Fair Value Measurements - Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) (Details) (GJ Performance Plan, USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
GJ Performance Plan
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period		$7,416	$7,019
Accretion of interest expense		121	397
GoJane consideration payment		-1,600	0
Subsequent remeasurement	-4,500	-4,491	0
Balance at end of period			$7,416

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements - Fair Value of Long-Lived Assets, Impairment Recognized (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total losses	$77,224	$46,070	$32,633
Intangible assets, total losses	5,100
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total fair value	7,904	11,687	4,237
Intangible assets, total fair value	6,300
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total fair value	0	0	0
Intangible assets, total fair value	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total fair value	0	0	0
Intangible assets, total fair value	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets held and used, total fair value	7,904	11,687	4,237
Intangible assets, total fair value	$6,300

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc_N

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc. -Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Nov. 13, 2012	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Jan. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition
Intangible assets impairment loss	$5,100,000
GoJane
Business Acquisition
Consideration transferred		33,600,000
Total cash consideration		25,200,000
Amount recognized for working capital adjustment		400,000
Business acquisition, cost of contingent consideration		8,000,000
Duration for contingent consideration		5 years
Number of individual stockholders of acquired business		2
Contingent consideration recognized		7,019,000
Purchase price fair value		32,600,000
Amortization of intangible assets	800,000		800,000	200,000
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life	6 years
Customer relationships | GoJane
Business Acquisition
Intangible asset, estimated useful life	7 years
E-commerce software platform | GoJane
Business Acquisition
Intangible asset, estimated useful life	3 years
GJ Performance Plan
Business Acquisition
Subsequent remeasurement	-4,491,000		0		-4,500,000
Liability value			7,416,000	7,019,000
Liabilities | GJ Performance Plan
Business Acquisition
Liability value	$1,446,000		$7,400,000		$1,446,000

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc_N1

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc. -Net Assets Acquiried (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Nov. 13, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Intangible assets:
Goodwill	$13,919	$13,919
GoJane
Business Acquisition
Total cash consideration			25,556
Assets acquired:
Inventory			2,961
Other assets			162
Intangible assets:
Total assets acquired			18,723
Liabilities assumed			-67
Contingent consideration recognized			-7,019
Net assets acquired			11,637
Goodwill			13,919
Trademarks | GoJane
Intangible assets:
Intangible assets	6,300		11,400
Customer relationships | GoJane
Intangible assets:
Intangible assets			3,400
E-commerce software platform | GoJane
Intangible assets:
Intangible assets			$800

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc_I

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc. -Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
Total intangible assets, net	$8,809	$14,661
GoJane
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
Gross Carrying Amount	4,200	4,200
Accumulated Amortization	1,691	939
Net	2,509	3,261
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
Impairment	-5,100
Total intangible assets, gross	15,600	15,600
Total intangible assets, net	8,809	14,661
GoJane | Customer relationships
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
Gross Carrying Amount	3,400	3,400
Accumulated Amortization	1,093	607
Net	2,307	2,793
GoJane | E-commerce software platform
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
Gross Carrying Amount	800	800
Accumulated Amortization	598	332
Net	202	468
Trademarks | GoJane
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
Trademarks	11,400	11,400
Impairment	-5,100
Net	$6,300

Acquisition_of_GoJanecom_Inc_F

Acquisition of GoJane.com, Inc. -Future Amortization Expense (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Fiscal 2015	$686
Fiscal 2016	486
Fiscal 2017	486
Fiscal 2018	486
Fiscal 2019	365
Thereafter	0
Total	$2,509

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity -Narrative (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Nov. 26, 2013
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right					1
Common stock, par value (usd per share)		$0.01	$0.01		$0.01
Number of shares of common stock repurchased during the period (in shares)				3,000,000
Total cost of repurchased shares				$40,800,000
Total number of shares repurchased (in shares)		60,100,000
Total amount paid for common stock repurchased under the plan to date		1,000,000,000
Amount of remaining authorization under repurchase program		104,400,000
Total share repurchase authorized		1,150,000,000
Vesting of stock		1,546,000	1,603,000	3,577,000
Retirement of treasury stock (in shares)	13,600,000
Reduction of common stock on balance sheet due to treasury stock retirement	100,000
Reduction of treasury stock on balance sheet due to treasury stock retirement	301,000,000
Reduction of retained earnings on balance sheet due to treasury stock retirement	300,900,000
Treasury Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of shares of common stock repurchased during the period (in shares)				3,000,000
Vesting of stock (in shares)		-380,000	-118,000	-167,000
Vesting of stock		$1,546,000	$1,606,000	$3,583,000
Retirement of treasury stock (in shares)				-13,596,000

Stockholders_Equity_Components

Stockholders' Equity -Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Equity [Abstract]
Pension liability, net of tax	$1,937	($2,007)
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment	1,161	824
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$3,098	($1,183)	$190

Stockholders_Equity_Changes_in

Stockholders' Equity -Changes in Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	($1,183)	$190
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	337	-1,907
Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	3,944	1,749
Tax effect on pension liability	0	-1,215	-345
Other comprehensive income (loss)	4,281	-1,373	1,029
Ending balance	3,098	-1,183	190
Pension Liability
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	-2,007	-2,541
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	0	0
Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	3,944	1,749
Tax effect on pension liability	0	-1,215
Other comprehensive income (loss)	3,944	534
Ending balance	1,937	-2,007
Foreign Currency Translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	824	2,731
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	337	-1,907
Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0
Tax effect on pension liability	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	337	-1,907
Ending balance	$1,161	$824

Fixtures_Equipment_and_Improve2

Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, gross	$428,117	$592,736
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	298,008	357,335
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, net	130,109	235,401
Depreciation and amortization	50,687	64,386	65,780
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, gross	211,889	316,581
Fixtures and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, gross	98,062	144,767
Computer equipment and software
Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, gross	115,381	127,773
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures, equipment and improvements, gross	2,785	3,615
Fixtures, Equipment and Improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Depreciation and amortization	$49,900	$63,600	$65,600

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur2

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued gift cards	$22,164	$27,783
Accrued compensation	19,770	16,939
Current portion of exit cost obligations	10,771	0
Current portion of SERP liability	6,044	0
Accrued rent	5,204	6,574
Other	46,607	50,820
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$110,560	$102,116

Noncurrent_Liabilities_Details

Non-current Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred rent	$38,407	$46,831
Deferred tenant allowance	25,262	51,189
Non-current portion of exit cost obligations	6,277	0
Retirement benefit plan liabilities	5,060	14,339
Uncertain tax contingency liabilities	1,917	3,702
Other	4,325	10,527
Total non-current liabilities	$81,248	$126,588

Revolving_Credit_Facility_Deta

Revolving Credit Facility (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Aug. 02, 2014	Feb. 21, 2014	Sep. 30, 2011	23-May-14
Line of Credit Facility
Repayments of Lines of Credit	$75,500,000	$0	$0
Cash dominion event, credit availability threshold percentage	12.50%
Minimum availability percentage of borrowing or commitments	10.00%
Long-term Line of Credit	0	0
Remaining borrowing capacity	116,800,000
Previous Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity		175,000,000			200,000,000	175,000,000
Total Amended Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity					230,000,000
Repayments of Lines of Credit				75,500,000
First-In, Last-Out Revolving Loan Facility
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity					30,000,000
Increase in Existing Facility
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity					25,000,000
Letter of Credit
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity		40,000,000
Previous Accordion Feature
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity		75,000,000
Accordion Feature
Line of Credit Facility
Maximum borrowing capacity					50,000,000
Bank of America Credit Facility | Standby Letter of Credit
Line of Credit Facility
Outstanding letter of credit	200,000
Loan Agreement
Line of Credit Facility
Principal amount	$150,000,000						$150,000,000

Loss_Earnings_Per_Share_Detail

(Loss) Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Nov. 01, 2014	Aug. 02, 2014	3-May-14	Feb. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013	Aug. 03, 2013	4-May-13	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net (loss) income	($13,534)	($52,323)	($63,819)	($76,782)	($70,306)	($25,623)	($33,734)	($12,168)	($206,458)	($141,831)	$34,923
Weighted average basic shares (in shares)									78,862,000	78,455,000	80,069,000
Impact of dilutive securities (in shares)									0	0	425,000
Weighted average diluted shares (in shares)									78,862,000	78,455,000	80,494,000
Basic (loss) earnings per share (in dollars per share)	($0.17)	($0.66)	($0.81)	($0.98)	($0.90)	($0.33)	($0.43)	($0.16)	($2.62)	($1.81)	$0.44
Diluted (loss) earnings per share (in dollars per share)	($0.17)	($0.66)	($0.81)	($0.98)	($0.90)	($0.33)	($0.43)	($0.16)	($2.62)	($1.81)	$0.43
Options to purchase shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)											400,086

StockBased_Compensation_Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation -Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	0 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 02, 2013	3-May-13	Nov. 01, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Nov. 13, 2012	Nov. 01, 2014	8-May-14
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Granted (in shares)	2,030,000
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$3.24
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Minimum Qualified Retirement Age	65 years
Award requisite service period	10 years
Minimum Qualified Early Retirement Age	55 years
Compensation expense (benefit)	$2,100,000	$1,200,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	400,000		400,000
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	1 year
Fair value of shares vested of other-than-option awards	2,500,000
Granted (in shares)	325,000
Cash-Settled Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	3 years
Minimum Qualified Retirement Age	65 years
Award requisite service period	10 years
Minimum Qualified Early Retirement Age	55 years
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted			262,000
Compensation expense (benefit)	1,400,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	1,100,000		1,100,000
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	2 years
Granted (in shares)	1,219,000
Non-vested stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	3 years
Minimum Qualified Retirement Age	65 years
Award requisite service period	10 years
Minimum Qualified Early Retirement Age	55 years
Compensation expense (benefit)	7,300,000	13,000,000		8,000,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	5,000,000		5,000,000
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	1 year
Fair value of shares vested of other-than-option awards	10,300,000	7,900,000		7,100,000
Award vesting period for directors, non-vested	1 year
Granted (in shares)	299,000
Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	3 years
Performance-Based Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Unrecognized compensation cost	0		0
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	0 years
Granted (in shares)	0
Market-based Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Compensation expense (benefit)	2,400,000	2,100,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	2,456,000		2,456,000
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	2 years
Granted (in shares)	677,000
Cash-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights (CSARs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	3 years
Compensation expense (benefit)	-300,000	300,000
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments granted					5,600,000
Expected volatility rate		71.00%
Expected term		6 months 26 days
Risk free interest rate		0.08%
Forfeiture rate		0.00%
Expiration period	7 years
Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	4 years
Compensation expense (benefit)	500,000	100,000		100,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	2,600,000		2,600,000
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation cost	2 years
Expirations in period	155,000
Forfeiture rate						0.00%
Award expiration dating minimum	8 years
Award vesting after change in control of company	1 year
Intrinsic value				100,000
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Compensation expense (benefit)							1,000,000
Rescission in Shares							229,760
GoJane
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees								3 years
Number of individual stockholders of acquired business								2
Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Restricted Shares								8,000,000
Acquisition Restricted Shares Liability	4,800,000	1,500,000
Acquisition Restricted Shares Expense	3,300,000	1,500,000	3,300,000
GoJane | Non-vested stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Number of individual stockholders of acquired business								2
2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Additional shares authorized for issuance										5,900,000
Common stock reserved for future issuance										6,113,891
Shares outstanding	4,725,321	1,273,238
Minimum | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	1 year
Minimum | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Expected volatility rate						52.80%
Expected term						3 years 11 months 16 days
Risk free interest rate						1.17%
Maximum | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees	3 years
Maximum | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Expected volatility rate						56.10%
Expected term						5 years
Risk free interest rate						1.58%
Chief Executive Officer | Market-based Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Compensation expense (benefit)									-2,000,000
Chief Executive Officer | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period for employees						3 years
Expiration period						7 years
Granted (in shares)						2,000,000
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)						3.24
Chief Executive Officer | Standard Performance Bonus Award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock price trigger (usd per share)						15.93
Percent of average market capitalization during period						2.00%
Effective date market capitalization						255,360,600
Threshold consecutive trading days						90 days
Chief Executive Officer | Qualifying Event Performance Bonus Award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock price trigger (usd per share)						3.24
Percent of average market capitalization during period						2.00%
Threshold consecutive trading days						30 days

StockBased_Compensation_Shares

Stock-Based Compensation -Shares of Stock Outstanding (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	230
Granted (in shares)	325
Vested (in shares)	-419
Modified (shares)	262
Cancelled (in shares)	0
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	398
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$9.05
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$4.79
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$6.02
Modified, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$2.73
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$4.60
Cash-Settled Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	0
Granted (in shares)	1,219
Vested (in shares)	-80
Modified (shares)	-262
Cancelled (in shares)	-130
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	747
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$4.93
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$2.89
Modified, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$2.73
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$4.03
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$2.44
Non-vested stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	1,856
Granted (in shares)	299
Vested (in shares)	-569
Cancelled (in shares)	-135
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	1,451
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$14.82
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$4.50
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$18.13
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$12.36
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$11.61
Performance-Based Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	0
Granted (in shares)	0
Vested (in shares)	0
Cancelled (in shares)	0
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Market-based Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	391
Granted (in shares)	677
Vested (in shares)	0
Cancelled (in shares)	-579
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	489
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$20.01
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$5.34
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$11.11
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$10.25

StockBased_Compensation_Stock_

Stock-Based Compensation -Stock Option Transactions for Common Stock (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	377
Granted (in shares)	2,030
Exercised (in shares)	0
Cancelled (in shares)	-160
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	2,247
Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest (in shares)	2,247
Exercisable as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	212
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding as of February 2, 2014 (usd per share)	$16.61
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$3.24
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$0
Cancelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$15.35
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015 (usd per share)	$4.62
Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$4.62
Exercisable as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share)	$17.57
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 11 months 27 days
Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 11 months 27 days
Exercisable as of January 31, 2015, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 months 4 days
Outstanding as of January 31, 2015, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$0
Options vested as of January 31, 2015 and expected to vest, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	0
Exercisable as of January 31, 2015, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$0

StockBased_Compensation_NonVes

Stock-Based Compensation -Non-Vested Outstanding Stock Options (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Non-vested as of February 2, 2014 (in shares)	10
Granted (in shares)	2,030
Vested (in shares)	0
Cancelled (in shares)	-5
Non-vested as of January 31, 2015 (in shares)	2,035
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested as of February 2, 2014, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$6.41
Granted, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$1.51
Vested, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$0
Cancelled, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$6.43
Non-vested as of January 31, 2015, Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (usd per share)	$1.52

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Narra

Retirement Benefit Plans -Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013	Mar. 02, 2015
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Percentage of employee gross earnings that may be contributed to plan, maximum	100.00%
Employer matching contribution	50.00%
Percentage of employee gross earnings that employer will provide a match for, maximum	5.00%
Vesting period of matching contribution, maximum	5 years
Vesting percentage after two years	20.00%
Vesting percentage after year three	50.00%
Percentage of vesting increase per year thereafter until fully vested	25.00%
Contribution expense		$1,800,000	$1,500,000
Other retirement plan liabilities	11,757,000	14,601,000
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Other retirement plan liabilities	7,531,000	10,551,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Other retirement plan liabilities	4,226,000	4,050,000
Chief Executive Officer | Subsequent Event | Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Benefits paid				6,000,000
Chief Executive Officer | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses | Subsequent Event | Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Benefit period increase				1,000,000
Long-term Incentive Deferred Compensation Plan
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits
Period of service in which participants become fully vested upon retirement	5 years
Vesting period for incentive deferred compensation plan	3 years
Minimum age of participant becoming fully vested	55 years
Other retirement plan liabilities	$4,200,000	$3,900,000

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Retir

Retirement Benefit Plans -Retirement Benefit Plan Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure
Total	$11,757	$14,601
Less amount classified in accrued expenses	6,044	0
Long-term retirement benefit plan liabilities	5,060	14,339
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure
Total	7,531	10,551
Less amount classified in accrued expenses	6,044	0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure
Total	4,226	4,050
Less amount classified in accrued expenses	$653	$262

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Net operating loss from U.S. federal, state, and Canadian NOL's	$611,500,000
Income taxes receivable and prepaid income taxes	18,306,000	50,388,000
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	70,100,000
Valuation allowance related to NOL carry forwards	70,000,000
Valuation allowance	40,600,000
Portion of gross unrecognized tax benefits that would affect its effective tax rate, including interest and penalties	7,200,000	9,900,000	2,700,000
Unrecognized tax benefits, decrease resulting from current period tax positions	5,300,000
Accrued interests and penalties related to uncertain tax positions	$600,000	$1,200,000
Minimum | State
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Tax examination period	6 years
Maximum | State
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Tax examination period	10 years

Income_Taxes_Domestic_and_Fore

Income Taxes (Domestic and Foreign Pretax Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic	($196,394)	($154,148)	$78,550
Foreign	-25,527	-31,971	-19,524
(Loss) income before income taxes	($221,921)	($186,119)	$59,026

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Pro

Income Taxes (Components of Provistion for Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Current:
Federal	($19,313)	($45,615)	$32,740
State and local	-1,823	2,035	1,930
Foreign	1,269	1,052	-1,707
Total current	-19,867	-42,528	32,963
Deferred:
Federal	0	-5,981	-5,234
State and local	4,440	1,707	-1,556
Foreign	-36	2,514	-2,070
Total deferred	4,404	-1,760	-8,860
Total	($15,463)	($44,288)	$24,103

Income_Taxes_Effective_Income_

Income Taxes (Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
(Decrease) increase in tax resulting from:
Foreign income taxes	-0.80%	-4.20%	4.50%
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	-1.20%	-1.80%	-1.60%
Federal income tax valuation allowance	-25.20%	-4.80%	0.00%
Other	-0.80%	-0.40%	2.90%
Effective rate	7.00%	23.80%	40.80%

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Def

Income Taxes (Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current:
Inventory	($8,861)	($7,094)
Unredeemed gift cards	3,251	3,620
Accrued compensation	4,085	1,930
Retirement benefit plan liabilities	2,371	0
Other	5,382	1,681
Net current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	6,228	137
Valuation allowance	-6,184	-42
Net current deferred tax assets	44	95
Non-current:
Furniture, equipment and improvements	9,474	433
Retirement benefit plan liabilities	1,985	5,624
Stock-based compensation	8,786	7,423
Deferred rent and tenant allowances	5,444	10,354
Net operating loss carry-forwards (“NOL’s”)	70,118	15,083
Other	9,015	-2,222
Net non-current deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	104,822	36,695
Valuation allowance	-104,364	-31,883
Net non-current deferred tax assets	458	4,812
Net deferred income tax assets	$502	$4,907

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance beginning	$8,620	$1,880	$2,813
Increases due to tax positions related to prior years	362	730	96
Increases due to tax positions related to current year		6,158
Decreases due to tax positions related to prior years	-2,046	-9	-38
Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities			-991
Increases due to settlements with taxing authorities		56
Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities	-304	-195
Balance ending	$6,632	$8,620	$1,880

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia2

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	23-May-14	Jan. 31, 2015	Aug. 18, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies
Future minimum payments due		$665,285,000
Amount of conditional bonuses that may be paid in 2015		1,000,000
Amount of conditional bonuses that may be paid in 2016		300,000
Litigation settlement charges		15,000,000
Term of purchase obligation	10 years
Bank of America Credit Facility | Standby Letter of Credit
Commitments and Contingencies
Outstanding letter of credit		200,000
Chief Executive Officer
Commitments and Contingencies
Employment agreement contract term			3 years
Employment agreement, annual salary			1,500,000
Equipment Leases
Commitments and Contingencies
Future minimum payments due		7,400,000
California Wage and Hour Matters
Commitments and Contingencies
Payments for legal settlements		3,600,000
Litigation settlement liabilities		800,000
Loan Agreement
Commitments and Contingencies
Principal amount	150,000,000	150,000,000
Minimum
Commitments and Contingencies
Amount of guaranteed minimum product purchase commitment	240,000,000
Maximum
Commitments and Contingencies
Amount of guaranteed minimum product purchase commitment	280,000,000

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia3

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Aggregate Minimum Annual Real Estate Rent Commitments) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$119,112
2016	102,147
2017	89,743
2018	81,231
2019	69,199
Thereafter	203,853
Total	$665,285

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia4

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Rental Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Minimum rentals for stores
Operating Leased Assets
Rental Expense	$150,912	$145,454	$138,126
Contingent rentals
Operating Leased Assets
Rental Expense	7,728	9,925	16,399
Office space rentals
Operating Leased Assets
Rental Expense	6,545	6,399	5,459
Distribution centers rentals
Operating Leased Assets
Rental Expense	3,229	3,229	3,229
Equipment rentals
Operating Leased Assets
Rental Expense	$3,492	$4,035	$4,347

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D2

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Nov. 01, 2014	Aug. 02, 2014	3-May-14	Feb. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013	Aug. 03, 2013	4-May-13	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net sales	$593,761,000	$452,889,000	$396,155,000	$395,858,000	$670,007,000	$514,588,000	$454,034,000	$452,273,000	$1,838,663,000	$2,090,902,000	$2,386,178,000
Gross profit	134,513,000	68,878,000	62,550,000	70,497,000	86,868,000	87,889,000	81,171,000	101,435,000	336,438,000	357,363,000	589,357,000
Net (loss) income	-13,534,000	-52,323,000	-63,819,000	-76,782,000	-70,306,000	-25,623,000	-33,734,000	-12,168,000	-206,458,000	-141,831,000	34,923,000
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	($0.17)	($0.66)	($0.81)	($0.98)	($0.90)	($0.33)	($0.43)	($0.16)	($2.62)	($1.81)	$0.44
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	($0.17)	($0.66)	($0.81)	($0.98)	($0.90)	($0.33)	($0.43)	($0.16)	($2.62)	($1.81)	$0.43
Asset impairment charges					32,400,000	5,100,000	8,000,000		82,325,000	46,070,000	32,633,000
Asset impairment charges, after tax					21,300,000	2,800,000	5,200,000
Asset impairment charges per share (in dollars per share)					$0.27	$0.04	$0.07
Reserves against net deferred tax assets			3,400,000
Reserves against net deferred tax assets (in usd per share)			$0.04
Benefit from resolution of dispute with sourcing agent, after tax					20,000,000
Benefit from resolution of dispute with sourcing agent per share (in dollars per share)					$0.25
Cost of Sales
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges	12,600,000	12,500,000	19,000,000	2,600,000
Asset impairment charges, after tax	9,900,000	10,900,000	18,500,000	2,500,000
Asset impairment charges per share (in dollars per share)	$0.13	$0.13	$0.23	$0.03
Leased buyout costs		3,700,000
Leased buyout costs, after tax		3,200,000
Leased buyout costs, per share		$0.04
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Other costs, including severance and consulting costs	2,800,000
Other costs, including severance and consulting costs, after tax	2,200,000
Other costs, including severance and consulting costs, per share (in dollars per share)	$0.03
Consulting fees			3,100,000
Consulting fees, after tax			3,000,000
Consulting fees per share (in usd per share)			$0.04
Restructuring Charges
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges				30,500,000
Asset impairment charges, after tax				29,100,000
Asset impairment charges per share (in dollars per share)				$0.37
Other restructuring Charges		1,700,000	3,000,000	4,000,000
Other restructuring charges, after tax		1,500,000	2,900,000	3,800,000
Other restructuring charges, per share (in dollars per share)		$0.02	$0.04	$0.05
Former Chief Executive Officer | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Severance costs		2,300,000
Severance cost, after tax		2,000,000
Severance costs (usd per share)		$0.03
Stock-based compensation		2,000,000
Stock-based compensation, net of tax		$1,800,000
Stock-based compensation (in usd per share)		$0.02

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Nov. 01, 2014	Aug. 02, 2014	3-May-14	Feb. 01, 2014	Nov. 02, 2013	Aug. 03, 2013	4-May-13	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
									segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments									2
Total assets	$512,189				$647,641				$512,189	$647,641
Total net sales	593,761	452,889	396,155	395,858	670,007	514,588	454,034	452,273	1,838,663	2,090,902	2,386,178
Total (loss) income from operations									-213,138	-185,206	59,511
Total long-lived assets, net	130,109				235,401				130,109	235,401
Total Merchandise Sales									100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales									1,744,738	1,973,775	2,250,915
Total long-lived assets, net	125,695				225,778				125,695	225,778
Canada
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales									93,925	117,127	135,263
Total long-lived assets, net	4,414				9,623				4,414	9,623
Retail stores and e-commerce
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	496,220				637,927				496,220	637,927
Total net sales									1,803,997	2,069,430	2,379,008
Total (loss) income from operations									-144,580	-153,466	85,859
International licensing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	15,969				9,714				15,969	9,714
Total net sales									34,666	21,472	7,170
Total (loss) income from operations									31,178	20,035	6,285
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total (loss) income from operations									($99,736)	($51,775)	($32,633)
Young Women’s
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Merchandise Sales									65.00%	65.00%	64.00%
Young Men’s
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Merchandise Sales									35.00%	35.00%	36.00%

Related_Parties_Details

Related Parties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	23-May-14	Dec. 31, 2014
Affiliated Entity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common stock ownership percentage by related party		8.00%
Affiliate of Sycamore Partners
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Purchases from related party	$4,000,000
Related parties accounts payable	4,300,000
Payments to related party	1,000,000
Scopia Capital Management
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common stock ownership percentage by related party			12.50%
Fidelity Management & Research Company
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common stock ownership percentage by related party			10.50%
Series B Preferred Stock
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Issuance of preferred stock (shares)		1,000
Aggregate share price of shares issued		100,000
Conversion ratio		3,932.02
Percent of common shares available for conversion		5.00%
Loan Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Principal amount	$150,000,000	$150,000,000

Subsequent_Event_Details

Subsequent Event (Details) (Subsequent Event, USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Feb. 02, 2015
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Proceeds from collection of advance rebate payment, per annum	$1.75

SCHEDULE_IIVALUATION_AND_QUALI1

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Reserves for Sales Returns
Valuation and qualifying accounts [Roll Forward]
Balance Beginning of Period	$157	$496	$676
Amounts Charged to Net Income	340	-153	334
Write-offs Against Reserve	263	186	514
Balance End of Period	234	157	496
Valuation Allowance for State Deferred Tax Assets
Valuation and qualifying accounts [Roll Forward]
Balance Beginning of Period	31,925	1,328	1,412
Amounts Charged to Net Income	78,623	30,597	-84
Write-offs Against Reserve	0	0	0
Balance End of Period	$110,548	$31,925	$1,328