| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 09, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000919012 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 9, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-33338 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-2721761 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 77 Hot Metal Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Pittsburgh |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 15203-2329 |
| City Area Code | (412) |
| Local Phone Number | 432-3300 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | AEO |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
