Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] State [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Valuation allowance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect the effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Liability for interest and penalties Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Accrued Estimated unrecognized tax benefits, decrease in tax position Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions by Unique Description [Axis] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions by Unique Description [Axis] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Name [Domain] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Name [Domain] Acquisition-related stock compensation [Member] Equity Issued in Business Combination [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock options [Member] Equity Option [Member] Restricted stock units [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance share units [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Other [Member] Other Stock-based Compensation [Member] Other Stock-based Compensation [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Total stock-based compensation expense, before income tax benefit Share-based Compensation Income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Total stock-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Recurring Dividend [Member] Recurring Dividend [Member] Recurring Dividend Special Dividend related to the sale of credit card receivables [Member] Special Dividend [Member] Special Dividend [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive earnings (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Dividends Dividends, Cash Issuance of common stock for Trunk Club acquisition Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Issuance of common stock for Trunk Club acquisition (in shares) Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Issuance of common stock under stock compensation plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of common stock under stock compensation plans (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Stock-based compensation (in shares) Stock-Based Compensation, Shares Number of shares issued in connection with the amount of equity-based compensation recognized as expense during the period. Repurchase of common stock Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Repurchase of common stock (in shares) Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Balance Balance (in shares) Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Abstract] Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Abstract] Credit Card Receivable Transaction Credit Card Receivables Transaction [Text Block] The disclosure summarizing our upcoming credit card receivable transaction. Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring fair value measurement [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Nonrecurring fair value measurement [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Trunk Club [Member] Trunk Club [Member] Trunk Club [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Beneficial interest amortization expense Other Depreciation and Amortization Fair value of beneficial interest, remaining Retained Interest, Fair Value Disclosure Outstanding equity of Trunk Club acquired (in percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Issuance of common stock for Trunk Club acquisition Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Asset impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] HauteLook [Member] HauteLook [Member] HauteLook [Member] Other [Member] Other Goodwill [Member] Other Goodwill [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Goodwill, Gross Additions Impairment Current income taxes: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income taxes: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Self Insurance [Abstract] Self Insurance [Abstract] Schedule Of Self Insurance [Table] Schedule Of Self Insurance [Table] Schedule Of Self Insurance [Table] Self Insurance [Axis] Self Insurance [Axis] Self Insurance [Axis] Self Insurance Type [Domain] Self Insurance Type [Domain] Self Insurance, Type [Domain] Workers' compensation [Member] Workers Compensation [Member] Workers' Compensation [Member] Employee health and welfare [Member] Employee Health And Welfare [Member] Employee, health, and welfare [Member] Other liability [Member] General Liability [Member] Self-insurance reserve [Line Items] Self Insurance [Line Items] Self Insurance [Line Items] Total self-insurance reserve Self Insurance Reserve Segment Reporting [Abstract] Information By Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Net Sales By Channel Schedule of Net sales by channel [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net sales by channel [Table Text Block] Percent Of Net Sales By Merchandise Category Summary Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract] 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five 2022 - 2026 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Merchandise inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Land, property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued salaries, wages and related benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, net Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred property incentives, net Incentive from Lessor Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies (Note 10) Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, no par value: 1,000 shares authorized; 170.0 and 173.5 shares issued and outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total shareholders’ equity Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Goodwill impairment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Percent State and local income taxes, net of federal income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Non-deductible acquisition-related items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Nondeductible Expense Acquisition Related Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Nondeductible Expense Acquisition Related Federal credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Interest on long-term debt and short-term borrowings Interest Costs Incurred Less: Interest Revenue (Expense), Net [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Interest Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Interest expense, net Interest Expense Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Change in benefit obligation [Member] Change In Benefit Obligation [Member] Change in benefit obligation [Member] Change in plan assets [Member] Change In Plan Assets [Member] Change in plan assets [Member] Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Benefit obligation at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Participant service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Employer contribution Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Actuarial loss (gain) Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Benefit obligation at end of year Fair value of plan assets at end of year Underfunded status at end of year Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Leases [Abstract] Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2019 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2020 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2021 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less: amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule Of Land, Property and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Land, Property and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Land, Property and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property and equipment [Member] Buildings And Equipment [Member] Buildings and equipment [Member] Land, Property and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Capital lease obligations Capital Leased Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization on capital lease obligations Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation Land and land improvements [Member] Land and Land Improvements [Member] Buildings and building improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Leasehold improvements [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Store fixtures and equipment [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Capitalized software [Member] Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Construction in progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Land, property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Land, property and equipment, net Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] 2015 Program [Member] Two Thousand Fifteen Program [Member] Two Thousand Fifteen Program [Member] 2017 Program [Member] Two Thousand Seventeen Program [Member] Two Thousand Seventeen Program [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Special Dividend [Member] Retained Earnings Adjustments [Line Items] Retained Earnings Adjustments [Line Items] Remaining share repurchase program capacity Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Expiration of unused capacity in March 2017 Expiration Of Unused Share Repurchase Program Capacity The expired amount of unused capacity for the repurchase of common shares outstanding under the Company's share repurchase programs authorized by the Company's Board of Directors. Share repurchase authorization Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Dividends paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Dividends Quarterly dividend per share declared and paid subsequent quarter Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Accounting Policies [Abstract] Buildings and improvements [Member] Buildings And Improvements [Member] Buildings And Improvements [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Estimated useful life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Assumptions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Weighted-average volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Weighted-average expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected life in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Grant Date Information Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Weighted-average fair value per option at grant date Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Exercise price per option Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Product and Service, Name [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Women's Apparel [Member] Womens Apparel [Member] Women's apparel [Member] Shoes [Member] Shoes [Member] Shoes [Member] Men's Apparel [Member] Mens Apparel [Member] Men's apparel [Member] Women's Accessories [Member] Womens Accessories [Member] Women's accessories [Member] Beauty [Member] Cosmetics [Member] Cosmetics [Member] Kids' apparel [Member] Childrens Apparel [Member] Children's apparel [Member] Other [Member] Other Products And Services [Member] Other Products And Services [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Percent of total net sales Merchandise Category As A Percentage of Net Sales Sales by merchandise category as a percentage of total net sales. Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Net sales Revenue, Net Comparable sales (decrease) increase Comparable Sales Percentage Change The percentage increase or decrease in comparable sales compared with the same period in the prior year. Same-store sales include sales from stores that have been open at least one full year at the beginning of the year and sales from our online store. Credit card revenues, net Credit Card Revenues, net Interest and fee income from credit card balances due from individuals. Such loans are considered revolving credit arrangements. Also, pursuant to the program agreement with TD Bank, amount includes Nordstrom's portion of the ongoing credit card revenue (net of credit losses) from both the sold and newly generated credit card receivables, asset amortization and deferred revenue recognition of the assets and liabilities recorded as part of the transaction. Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Goodwill impairment Earnings before interest and income taxes Earnings Before Interest And Income Taxes This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations (before interest income and interest expense) attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before interest income, interest expense, income taxes and extraordinary items. Net earnings (loss) Earnings (Loss) per basic share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings (Loss) per diluted share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted U.S. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Earnings before income taxes Earnings Before Income Taxes This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before income taxes and extraordinary items. Debt And Credit Facilities Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization expenses Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of deferred property incentives and other, net Amortization Of Deferred Property Incentives And Other Net The amount of recurring noncash expense charged against earnings during the period for amortization, primarily of deferred property incentives (deferred credits received as an inducement or incentive for entering into a lease or real estate agreement), and also for amortization of deferred bond offering costs and other items. Deferred income taxes, net Stock-based compensation expense Tax (deficiency) benefit from stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Expense from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Bad debt expense Provision for Doubtful Accounts Change in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Proceeds from sale of credit card receivables originated at Nordstrom Proceeds from Sale of Loans Held-for-sale at Nordstrom The cash inflow resulting from the sale of loans classified as held-for-sale originated at Nordstrom. Merchandise inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued salaries, wages and related benefits Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities Deferred property incentives Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Property Incentives The net change during the reporting period, excluding the portion taken into income, in Deferred Property Incentives (deferred credits received as an inducement or incentive for entering into a lease or real estate agreement). Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Change in credit card receivables originated at third parties Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable Proceeds from sale of credit card receivables originated at third parties Proceeds from Sale of Loans Held-for-sale at Third Parties The cash inflow resulting from the sale of loans classified as held-for-sale originated at third parties. Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from long-term borrowings, net of discounts Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Principal payments on long-term borrowings Repayments of Long-term Debt Defeasance of long-term debt Repayments of Secured Debt Increase (decrease) in cash book overdrafts Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts Cash dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Payments for repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from issuances under stock compensation plans Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during the year for: Cash Paid During The Period For Abstract Cash Paid During The Period For. Income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Interest, net of capitalized interest Interest Paid, Net Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Beneficial interest asset acquired from the sale of credit card receivables Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Outstanding trade letters of credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Manhattan full-line store [Member] Manhattan Full-line Store [Member] Manhattan full-line store [Member]. Long-term purchase commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Purchase obligations, capital expenditure contractual commitments and inventory purchase orders Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Outstanding trade letters of credit amount Long-term Line of Credit Amount of property assets subject to lien Amount Of Property Assets Subject To Lien Amount of property assets subject to lien until project completion or fulfillment of our existing installment payment commitment. Schedule Of Land, Property And Equipment Schedule Of Land, Buildings, And Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Land, Buildings, And Equipment [Table Text Block] Summary Of Self-Insurance Reserves Summary Of Self Insurance Reserve [Text Block] Summary of the carrying amounts of accrued known and estimated losses incurred as of the balance sheet date for which no insurance coverage exists, and for which a claim has been made or is probable of being asserted, typically arising from workman's compensation-type of incidents and personal injury to nonemployees from accidents on the entity's property. Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Outstanding, beginning of year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Outstanding, beginning of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Granted (in dollars per share) Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited or cancelled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Forfeited or cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding, end of year (in shares) Outstanding, end of year (in dollars per share) Outstanding, end of year, weighted-average remaining contractual life (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding, end of year, aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable, end of year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Exercisable, end of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable, end of year, weighted-average remaining contractual life (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable, end of year, aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Vested or expected to vest, end of year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Vested or expected to vest, end of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Vested or expected to vest, end of year, weighted-average remaining contractual life (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Vested or expected to vest, end of year, aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Fair value of stock options vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2010 Equity Incentive Plan [Member] Two Thousand Ten Equity Incentive Plan [Member] Two Thousand Ten Equity Incentive Plan [Member] 2002 Nonemployee Director Stock Incentive Plan [Member] 2002 Nonemployee Director Stock Incentive Plan [Member] 2002 Nonemployee Director Stock Incentive Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2013 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2013 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2013 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2012 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2012 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2012 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2011 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2011 Plan [Member] PSU TSR 2011 Plan [Member] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Employee stock purchase plan [Member] Employee Stock [Member] Value Creation Plan [Member] Long-term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-term incentive plan for Trunk Club. Supplemental award stock option [Member] Supplemental Award Equity Option [Member] Contracts conveying rights, but not obligations, to buy or sell a specific quantity of stock at a specified price during a specified period (an American option) or at a specified date (a European option). Rights awareded as part of a supplemental award during the year, rather than the annual grant. Restricted stock awards [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Aggregate number of shares authorized to be issued under equity incentive plan Aggregate Number Of Shares Authorized to Be Issued Under Equity Incentive Plan Aggregate Number Of Shares Authorized to Be Issued Under Equity Incentive Plan Shares or units authorized under equity incentive plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Common stock, shares outstanding Shares available for grant under equity incentive plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Shares authorized under nonemployee director stock incentive plan Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Shares Approved for Issuance Remaining shares available for issuance under nonemployee director stock incentive plan Share Based Goods And Nonemployee Services Transaction Shares Available For Issuance For our nonemployee director stock incentive plan: the difference between the maximum number of shares authorized for issuance under the plan (including the effects of amendments and adjustments), and the sum of: 1) the number of shares already issued upon exercise of options or other share-based awards under the plan, and 2) shares reserved for issuance on granting of outstanding awards, net of cancellations and forfeitures, if applicable. Expense recognized on deferred shares awarded under the nonemployee director stock incentive plan (less than $1 as of January 28, 2017) Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Compensation Expense Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to nonvested share-based awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Trunk Club Value Creation Plan payout Trunk Club LTIP payout The amount which could be paid out under the long-term incentive plan based on achievement of certain business valuation or performance criteria. Maximum percentage of employee payroll deductions under ESPP Percentage Of Payroll Deductions Contributed To Employee Stock Purchase Plan The maximum deduction from payroll that eligible employees may contribute towards the purchase of the entity's common stock under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. ESPP offering period ESPP Offering Period The term of each Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") offering period that participants may apply payroll deductions toward the purchase of shares of Nordstrom common stock. Percentage of fair market value for purchase of shares of common stock in ESPP Percentage of fair value for purchase of shares of common stock in ESPP The percentage of the fair market value of the entity's common stock on the last day of the offer period for which eligible employees may purchase the stock under the entity's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Shares authorized under Employee Stock Purchase Plan Shares Authorized For Employee Stock Purchase Plan Maximum number of shares authorized to be purchased under the entity's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Shares available for issuance under Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Available For Issuance During Period Shares Employee Stock Purchase Plans Number of shares available for issuance under the entity's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Shares issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Dividends (in dollars per share) Weighted-average exercise price per stock option granted (in dollars per share) Vesting period, in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Option expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Weighted-average period that unrecognized stock-based compensation expense is expected to be recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Total fair value of units vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Outstanding (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Percentage of units that are earned Percentage Of Performance Share Units That Are Earned The percentage at which Performance Share Units may be earned based on the vesting criteria in the Performance Share Unit award agreements. Vesting rate of the number of units granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage PSU settlement paid in stock and cash Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Share-based Liabilities Paid In Stock And Cash Amount of stock and cash paid related to share-based compensation liabilities. Vested, less than (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period1 A "less than" number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that vested during the reporting period. PSU's in other liabilities Other Liabilities Summary Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Expense Before Income Tax Benefit Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Assumptions To Estimate The Fair Value For Stock Options At Grant Date Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary Of Stock Option Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary Of Restricted Stock Unit Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Summary Of Performance Share Unit Activity Schedule of Other Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of common stock equivalents (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per basic share (in dollars per share) Earnings per diluted share (in dollars per share) Anti-dilutive stock options and other equity instruments Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Land, Property And Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Leases [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Leases [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Store locations [Member] Store Locations [Member] Store Locations [Member] Offices, warehouses and equipment [Member] Offices Warehouses And Equipment [Member] Offices, Warehouses And Equipment [Member] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Minimum rent Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Percentage rent Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals Property incentives Property incentives This item represents the credit for an incentive or inducement received by a lessee from a lessor, in order to motivate the lessee to enter the lease agreement, which incentive or inducement is to be recognized as a reduction of rental expense over the lease term. Total rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Table] Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Table] Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Table] Series 2011-1 Class A Notes, 2.28%, due October 2016 [Member] Series20111 Class Notes228 Due October2016 [Member] Series 2011-1 Class A Notes, 2.28%, Due October 2016 Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Line Items] Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Line Items] [Line Items] for Credit Card Receivable Transaction [Table] Debt defeased as a condition of closing the credit card receivable transaction Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Cash acquired for credit transaction Cash Acquired For Credit Transaction Amount represents the cash received primarily for the par value of the receivables sold. Credit transaction and other, net (including transaction-related expenses from the third quarter) Credit Transaction and Other, net The net income statement impact from the credit transaction and other. The items may include (1) the impact from the credit card receivables classified as held-for-sale (2) the impact from credit transaction-related expenses and/or (3) other. Beneficial interest asset, useful life (in years) Beneficial Interest Asset, Expected Life The expected life of the beneficial interest asset based on the payment rate of the associated receivables, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Deferred revenue, useful life (in years) Deferred Revenue, Recognition Period Recognition period of deferred revenue, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Investment in contract asset, useful life (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Computation Of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Summary Of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Required Principal Payments On Long-Term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Components Of Interest Expense, Net Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block] U.S. And Foreign Components Of Earnings Before Income Taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Components Of Income Tax Expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Of Statutory To Effective Tax Rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Unrecognized tax benefit at beginning of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Gross increase to tax positions in prior periods Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Gross decrease to tax positions in prior periods Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Gross increase to tax positions in current period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Lapses in statute Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized tax benefit at end of year Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Discount rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Monthly payment rate Fair Value Inputs, Payment Rate Total estimated monthly payments as a percent of beginning receivables expected to be received in the future used as an input to measure the fair value of the beneficial interest asset. Annual credit loss rate Fair Value Inputs, Credit Loss Rate Total estimated annual losses for all charge-offs, net of recoveries, as a percent of beginning receivables expected to be incurred in the future used as an input to measure the fair value of the beneficial interest asset. Annual revenues as a percent to credit card receivables Fair Value Inputs, Revenue Rate Total estimated annual finance charges and fees as a percent of beginning receivables expected to be received in the future used as an input to measure the fair value of the beneficial interest asset. Annual expenses as a percent to credit card receivables Fair Value Inputs, Expense Rate Total estimated annual expenses as a percent of beginning receivables expected to be incurred in the future used as an input to measure the fair value of the beneficial interest asset. Four Zero One K Plan [Abstract] Four Zero One K Plan Abstract Expense related to Company 401(k) plan contributions Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Employment practices liability [Member] Employment Practices Liability [Member] Employment Practices Liability [Member] Commercial general liability [Member] Commercial General Liability [Member] Commercial General Liability [Member] Self-insurance policy retention per claim Self Insurance Policy Retention Per Claim Self Insurance Policy Retention Per Claim Workers' compensation policy limit Workers Compensation Policy Limit Workers' compensation policy limit. Self-insurance policy limit Self Insurance Policy Limit Maximum Self Insurance Policy Limit Maximum Accrued salaries, wages and related benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Other noncurrent liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Net amount recognized Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities Allowance at beginning of year Sales Return Reserve The accrued amount of estimated sales returns. Charged to costs and expenses Sales Return Reserve, Additions Additions to the sales return reserve during the period based on an estimate of the amount of customer merchandise returns using historical return patterns. Deductions Sales Returns Reserve, Net Returns Deductions to the sales return reserve during the period based on the amount of actual returns, offset by the value of the merchandise returned and the sales commissions reversed. Allowance at end of year Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Postretirement plan adjustments, tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Scenario, Plan [Member] Scenario, Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Number of total participants in SERP benefits plan Number Of Total participants Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number Of Total participants Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number of officers and select employees eligible for SERP benefits Number Of Officers And Select Employees Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number of officers and select employees eligible for Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan benefits. Number of retirees eligible for SERP benefits Number Of Retirees Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number Of Retirees Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number of beneficiaries eligible for SERP benefits Number Of Beneficiary Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Number Of Beneficiary Eligible For Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefits Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Cost currently in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized as components of SERP expense in the next year Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year Postretirement plan adjustments, net of tax of ($1), ($15) and $7 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Comprehensive net earnings Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Self-Insurance Self Insurance Disclosure Text Block Disclosure of self insurance related to health and welfare, workers' compensation and general liability. Major Property Class [Axis] Major Property Class [Axis] Major Property Class [Domain] Major Property Class [Domain] Nordstrom full-line stores [Member] Nordstrom Full Line Stores [Member] Nordstrom Full Line Stores [Member] Nordstrom Rack [Member] Nordstrom Rack [Member] Nordstrom Rack [Member] Leases [Line Items] Leases [Line Items] Leases [Line Items] Non-cancelable lease terms (in years) Non Cancelable Lease Terms The fixed, non-cancelable lease terms for the majority of our stores. Charges not included in rent expense Charges Not Included In Rent Expense Common area charges, real estate taxes and other executory costs not included in rent expense. Components of SERP expense [Member] Components Of Serp Expense [Member] Components of SERP Expense [Member] Amortization of net loss and other Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Total SERP expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Activity In The Allowance For Sales Returns, Net Summary of Sales Return Allowance [Table Text Block] Schedule summarizing the activity in the allowance for sales returns. Vendor Allowances Vendor Allowances, Table [Text Block] Schedule of vendor allowances earned during the period. Estimated Useful Life Of Land, Property And Equipment By Asset Category Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Summary Of Goodwill Activity Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Assumptions used to determine benefit obligation: Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Assumptions used to determine SERP expense: Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase 401(k) Plan 401K Disclosure Text Block Disclosures related to our 401(k) plan 2013 Program [Member] Two Thousand Thirteen Program [Member] Two Thousand Thirteen Program [Member] 2014 Program [Member] Two Thousand Fourteen Program [Member] Two Thousand Fourteen Program [Member] Share Repurchase Program [Line Items] Share Repurchase Program [Line Items] Share repurchase program line items Capacity beginning balance Share repurchase authorization Shares repurchased (in shares) Shares repurchased, average price per share (in dollars per share) Stock Repurchased During Period Average Price Per Share The average price per share for common outstanding shares repurchased as part of the Company's share repurchase program authorized by the Company's Board of Directors. Shares repurchased (amount) Expiration of unused capacity in March 2015 Capacity ending balance Summary Of Share Repurchase Activity Summary Of Share Repurchase Program Activity Text Block Summary of Share Repurchase Program Activity. Includes the number and average price per share that was repurchased during the period. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Range Of Input Assumptions Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Summary Of Carrying Value And Fair Value Estimate Of Long-Term Debt, Including Current Maturities Schedule Of Financial Instruments Not Measured At Fair Value Table Text Block [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments not measured at fair value. Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Cosmetic expenses [Member] Cosmetic Selling Expenses [Member] Cosmetic selling expenses [Member] Purchase price adjustments [Member] Purchase Price Adjustments [Member] Purchase price adjustments [Member] Cooperative advertising [Member] Cooperative Advertising And Promotion [Member] Cooperative advertising and promotion [Member] Other [Member] Other Vendor Allowances [Member] Other vendor allowances [Member] Nature Of Retail Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Retail Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Retail Operations [Line Items] Total vendor allowances Vendor Allowances Vendor Allowances Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Senior notes, 4.00%, due January 2027, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes400 Percent Due March2027 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes 4.00 Percent Due March 2027 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior notes, 5.00%, due January 2044, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes500 Percent Due January2044 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes, Five Percent, Due January Two Thousand And Forty Four, Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior notes, 6.25%, due January 2018, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes625 Percent Due January2018 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes 6.25 Percent Due January 2018 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Unsecured revolving credit facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Puerto Rico unsecured borrowing facility [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Commercial Paper [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Book value of office building used to secure mortgage payable Buildings Pledged As Collateral The net book value of a building pledged as security for a mortgage. Total unsecured debt Unsecured Debt Debt instrument interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Maturity date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description Total short-term borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Option to increase the maximum capacity of revolving credit facility Revolving Credit Facility Option To Increase Maximum Amount The maximum amount by which the entity may choose to increase the maximum capacity of a credit facility. Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt covenant leverage ratio Debt Instrument, Debt Covenant Leverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Debt Covenant Leverage Ratio Borrowing capacity of current facility Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Debt instrument interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Outstanding borrowings or issuances Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Nordstrom Visa credit cards Nordstrom Visa credit cards Nordstrom Visa credit cards Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Accumulated loss Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Prior service credit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total accumulated other comprehensive loss Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Nordstrom full-line stores - U.S. [Member] Nordstrom US [Member] Nordstrom full-line stores in the U.S. [Member] Nordstrom.com [Member] Nordstrom.com [Member] Nordstrom.com [Member] Nordstrom [Member] Nordstrom [Member] Nordstrom [Member] Nordstromrack.com/HauteLook [Member] Nordstromrack.com and HauteLook [Member] Nordstromrack.com and HauteLook [Member] Off-price [Member] Off-Price [Member] Off-Price [Member] Other retail [Member] Other Retail [Member] Other Retail [Member] Total Retail segment [Member] Retail Segment [Member] Retail Segment [Member] Corporate/Other [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Nordstrom - U.S. [Member] Nordstrom Canada [Member] Nordstrom Canada [Member] Nordstrom Canada [Member] Jeffrey [Member] Jeffrey [Member] Jeffrey [Member] Last Chance [Member] Clearance Store [Member] Clearance Store [Member] Liability Type [Axis] Liability Type [Axis] Liability Type [Axis] Liability Type [Domain] Liability Type [Domain] [Domain] for Liability Type [Axis] Nordstrom Rewards [Member] Nordstrom Rewards [Member] Nordstrom Rewards points [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Retail store [Member] 5311 Retail, Department Stores [Member] Other [Member] Other Assets [Member] Number of retail channels Number of Stores Number of states in which company operates Number of States in which Entity Operates Number of provinces in which the company operates Number of Provinces in which the Entity Operates The number of provinces in Canada in which the entity operates in as of the balance sheet date. Nordstrom Rewards costs Nordstrom Rewards costs The total cost to operate the Nordstrom Rewards loyalty program, including the costs recorded in cost of sales as well as selling, general and administrative expenses. Development incentive deferred rent credit Incentives From Lessor Gross This item represents the gross deferred credit for an incentive or inducement received by a lessee from a lessor, in order to motivate the lessee to enter the lease agreement, which incentive or inducement is to be recognized as a reduction of rental expense over the lease term. Advertising expense, net of vendor allowances Advertising Expense Shipping and handling cost Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Period at which unused gift card balance redemptions are deemed remote, years Period At Which Unused Gift Card Balance Redemptions Are Deemed Remote Period At Which Unused Gift Card Balance Redemptions Are Deemed Remote Gift card breakage income Revenue Recognition, Gift Cards, Breakage Gift card breakage rate Gift Card Breakage Rate The rate of breakage recognized related to unredeemed gift cards. Breakage occurs when a customer pays in advance of vendor performance and does not demand full performance for various reasons. Outstanding gift card liability Gift Card Liability, Current Checks not yet presented for payment drawn in excess of bank deposit balances Bank Overdrafts Long-lived tangible asset impairment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Amortizable intangible asset impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Amortization expense of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Future amortization expense of intangible assets, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Future amortization expense of intangible assets, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Future amortization expense of intangible assets, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Shareholders’ equity Common stock, no par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, No Par Value Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Fair Value Measurements Disclosure [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Long-term Debt [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Carrying value of long-term debt Total long-term debt Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, including current and noncurrent amounts. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Includes capital lease obligations. Fair value of long-term debt Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Mortgage payable, 7.68%, due April 2020 [Member] Mortgage Payable768 Percent Due April2020 [Member] Mortgage Payable 7.68 Percent Due April 2020 [Member] Other secured debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Senior notes, 4.75%, due May 2020, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes475 Percent Due May2020 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes 4.75 Percent Due May 2020 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior notes, 4.00%, due October 2021, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes Four Percent Due October Two Thousand And Twenty One Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes, Four Percent, Due October Two Thousand And Twenty One, Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior debentures, 6.95%, due March 2028 [Member] Senior Debentures695 Percent Due March2028 [Member] Senior Debentures 6.95 Percent Due March 2028 [Member] Senior notes, 7.00%, due January 2038, net of unamortized discount [Member] Senior Notes700 Percent Due January2038 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Senior Notes 7.00 Percent Due January 2038 Net Of Unamortized Discount [Member] Other unsecured debt [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Total secured debt Secured Debt Total long-term debt Less: current portion Total due beyond one year Maturity date Future Minimum Lease Payments Schedule Of Future Minimum Capital And Operating Lease Payments Text Block Schedule of future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable capital and operating lease agreements. Schedule Of Rent Expense Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of sales and related buying and occupancy costs [Member] Cost Of Sales And Related Buying And Occupancy Costs [Member] Cost of sales and related buying and occupancy costs [Member] Selling, general and administrative expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Postretirement Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Compensation and benefits accruals Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Allowance for sales returns Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Returns and Allowances Credit card receivable transaction Deferred Tax Assets Credit Card Receivable Transaction Amount of deferred tax asset attributable to the Credit card receivable transaction. Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Merchandise inventories Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory Gift cards Deferred Tax Assets Gift Cards And Gift Certificates The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions attributable to gift card and gift certificate income recognized only for tax purposes and which will reverse when recognized under generally accepted accounting principles. Nordstrom Notes Deferred Tax Assets Loyalty Reward Certificates The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from currently non-deductable expenses related to the issuance of loyalty reward certificates, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when the certificates are actually redeemed, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Federal benefit of state taxes Deferred Tax Assets, State Taxes Net operating losses Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Gain on sale of interest rate swap Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Total net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Land, property and equipment basis and depreciation differences Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Debt exchange premium Deferred Tax Liabilities, Financing Arrangements Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Net deferred tax assets Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Fiscal Year Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net Sales Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Credit Card Revenues, net Credit Card Revenues [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for credit card revenues. Cost of Sales Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Loyalty Program Revenue Recognition, Loyalty Programs [Policy Text Block] Buying and Occupancy Costs Buying and Occupancy Costs Policy [Text Block] Describes the nature of and identifies the significant items comprising an entity's buying and occupancy costs. Rent Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Vendor Allowances Cost of Sales, Vendor Allowances, Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] New Store Opening Costs New Store Opening Costs Policy [Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policies for costs incurred to open new stores. Gift Cards Revenue Recognition, Gift Cards [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Net Earnings Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] Merchandise Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Land, Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Long-Lived Assets Long Lived Assets [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for intangible and long lived tangible assets. This accounting policy may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of intangible and long lived tangible assets. Self-Insurance Self Insurance Reserve [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Total revenues Revenues Cost of sales and related buying and occupancy costs Cost Of Sales And Related Buying And Occupancy Costs The aggregate of cost of sales, buying and occupancy costs during the reporting period. Buying costs consist primarily of compensation and other costs incurred by our merchandise and product development groups. Occupancy costs include rent, depreciation, property taxes and facility operating costs of our retail, corporate center and distribution operations. Earnings before interest and income taxes Interest expense, net Income tax expense Net earnings Earnings per share: Basic (in dollars per share) Diluted (in dollars per share) Weighted-average shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted (in shares) Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity [Abstract] Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity [Abstract] Outstanding, beginning of year (in shares or units) Outstanding, beginning of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited or cancelled (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited or cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, end of year (in shares or units) Outstanding, end of year (in dollars per share) Retail [Member] Total Retail Business [Member] Total Retail Business [Member] Total Retail Business [Member] Credit [Member] Credit Segment [Member] Credit Segment [Member] Credit card revenues, net Earnings (loss) before interest and income taxes Earnings (loss) before income taxes Capital expenditures Depreciation and amortization Assets Vested (in shares or units) Forfeited or cancelled (in shares or units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Forfeitures and Expirations Benefit Obligations And Funded Status Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Amounts Recognized As Liabilities In The Consolidated Balance Sheets Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Components Of SERP Expense Recognized In The Consolidated Statements Of Earnings Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Amounts Not Yet Reflected In SERP Expense And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Pre-Tax) Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligations And SERP Expense Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Expected Future Benefit Payments Including Benefits Attributable To Estimated Future Employee Service Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]