Lacoste is a world-renowned French brand recognized globally by its iconic crocodile logo. Founded by tennis legend René Lacoste, the brand revolutionized sportswear by introducing the first breathable polo shirt. Today, Lacoste offers a wide range of apparel that blends athletic functionality with everyday elegance, making it a staple in many wardrobes. This guide will help you understand the brand’s history, its various product lines, and how to make the best purchasing decisions.
The History of the Crocodile
The story of Lacoste began in the late 1920s with René Lacoste, a French tennis champion. At the time, tennis players wore rigid, long-sleeved button-down shirts that restricted movement. Lacoste sought a more comfortable alternative that could withstand the heat of the court.
He designed a short-sleeved shirt made from a lightweight, breathable knit fabric known as petit piqué. This design allowed for better airflow and flexibility. The brand’s famous logo originated from a nickname given to René by the press: “The Crocodile,” referencing his tenacity on the tennis court.
In 1933, Lacoste teamed up with André Gillier to mass-produce the shirt, marking the birth of the modern polo. Since then, the brand has expanded far beyond the tennis court. It now produces a full range of clothing, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and children.
Understanding the Iconic Lacoste Polo
The centerpiece of Lacoste apparel is the L.12.12 polo shirt. The name itself is a code that explains the design of the original shirt. Each character in the name has a specific meaning regarding the shirt’s construction.
- L: Stands for Lacoste.
- 1: Refers to the unique petit piqué fabric used for the shirt.
- 2: Signifies the short-sleeved design.
- 12: Represents the version of the prototype that was finally selected for production.
The petit piqué fabric is a hallmark of the brand. It is a durable, honeycomb-textured cotton that is both breathable and resistant to wrinkling. This makes the apparel ideal for both active sports and casual social settings.
A Guide to Lacoste Fits
Choosing the right size in Lacoste apparel can be confusing because the brand often uses a numerical sizing system. Additionally, they offer several different fits to accommodate various body types and style preferences.
Classic Fit
The Classic Fit is the original silhouette designed by René Lacoste. It features a roomy cut through the chest and waist, with longer sleeves and a straight hem. This fit is best for those who prefer a traditional, relaxed look or a more comfortable range of motion.
Slim Fit
The Slim Fit offers a more contemporary, tailored appearance. It is cut closer to the body through the torso and arms. This style is popular for those who want a modern aesthetic that highlights the physique without being overly tight.
Paris Fit
The Paris Fit sits between the Classic and Slim fits. It often features a hidden button placket and is made with a hint of stretch. This style is designed to look like a dress shirt while maintaining the comfort of a polo, making it suitable for business-casual environments.
How to Identify Authentic Lacoste Apparel
Because Lacoste is a premium brand, counterfeit items are common in the marketplace. Knowing how to spot an authentic piece is essential for ensuring you receive the quality you are paying for. There are several key details to inspect.
First, examine the crocodile logo. On authentic polos, the crocodile is usually a separate patch that is neatly appliquéd to the garment. The scales, claws, and red mouth should be clearly defined. The logo is typically positioned between the bottom of the collar and the second button.
Second, check the buttons. Authentic Lacoste shirts typically use mother-of-pearl buttons. These buttons have two holes and do not feature any text or branding. Counterfeit items often use plastic buttons that may have “Lacoste” printed on them.
Third, look at the sizing tag. Original French-designed Lacoste items use numbers (such as 2, 3, 4, or 5) rather than letters (S, M, L). While some modern international lines may use letters, the presence of numerical sizing is a strong indicator of authenticity in traditional styles.
Caring for Your Lacoste Clothing
To ensure your Lacoste apparel lasts for years, proper care is necessary. High-quality cotton can shrink or lose its shape if exposed to high heat or harsh chemicals. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will preserve the color and texture of the fabric.
- Washing: Always wash your apparel in cold water (no more than 30°C). This prevents the cotton fibers from shrinking and helps maintain the vibrancy of the dye.
- Detergent: Use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach, which can weaken the fabric and damage the logo.
- Drying: Air drying is the best method for Lacoste clothing. Lay the garment flat on a drying rack to prevent stretching. Avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat can damage the piqué knit.
- Ironing: If you must iron your shirt, do so on a medium heat setting. Avoid ironing directly over the crocodile logo, as the heat can melt the adhesive or damage the embroidery.
Beyond the Polo: Other Lacoste Apparel
While the polo shirt remains the brand’s most famous item, Lacoste offers a comprehensive range of clothing for all seasons. Their collections often draw inspiration from their sporting heritage in tennis and golf.
Lacoste outerwear includes lightweight windbreakers, classic trench coats, and quilted vests. These items often feature technical fabrics designed to protect against the elements while maintaining a sleek profile. Their knitwear, such as V-neck sweaters and cardigans, often uses high-quality wool or cotton blends.
The brand also has a significant presence in footwear. Lacoste sneakers are known for their minimalist design and clean lines. Many of their shoe styles are inspired by vintage tennis court shoes, utilizing leather or canvas uppers with durable rubber soles.
Sustainability and Brand Values
In recent years, Lacoste has made efforts to improve its environmental impact. The brand has introduced initiatives to source more sustainable cotton and reduce water usage during the dyeing process. They have also released special collections aimed at wildlife conservation.
One notable campaign involved replacing the crocodile logo with images of endangered species to raise awareness and funds for conservation efforts. This demonstrates the brand’s commitment to using its global platform for social and environmental responsibility.
Where to Buy Lacoste Apparel
To ensure you are purchasing genuine products, it is best to buy directly from Lacoste boutiques or their official website. Many high-end department stores and authorized sporting goods retailers also carry authentic Lacoste lines.
If you are shopping at online marketplaces or second-hand stores, be sure to request detailed photos of the logo, buttons, and inner tags. Buying from reputable sellers with high ratings can also reduce the risk of purchasing counterfeit goods.
Lacoste apparel represents a blend of history, quality, and timeless style. By understanding the different fits and how to care for the fabric, you can enjoy these garments for many years. Whether you are looking for a classic polo for the weekend or a sharp outfit for the office, Lacoste offers versatile options for every occasion. For more guides on quality clothing and smart shopping, feel free to explore our other articles.