| Document and Entity Information | May 20, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | GENESCO INC |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TN |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000018498 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 20, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | TN |
| Entity File Number | 1-3083 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 62-0211340 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1415 Murfreesboro Pike |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Nashville |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 37217-2895 |
| City Area Code | (615) |
| Local Phone Number | 367-7000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | true |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $1.00 par value |
| Trading Symbol | GCO |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
