The Lacoste poloshirt, a timeless piece of fashion, has an interesting and rich history that dates back nearly a century. This classic shirt, known for its simple elegance and iconic crocodile logo, has become a wardrobe staple for many around the world.

Tennis champion

The story begins with René Lacoste, a French tennis champion in the 1920s and 1930s. Lacoste was not only known for his impressive skills on the court but also for his keen sense of style and desire for practical, comfortable clothing. In the early 1920s, tennis players typically wore long-sleeved button-up shirts, which were not ideal for the fast-paced nature of the sport. Lacoste wanted something different, something better suited for movement and breathability.

1927

In 1927, René Lacoste designed a new type of shirt made from a lightweight, breathable cotton fabric called “jersey petit piqué”. This shirt featured a short, soft collar, a buttoned placket, and short sleeves. It was a revolutionary design that allowed for greater comfort and ease of movement. Lacoste first wore this innovative shirt during the 1926 U.S. Open, and it quickly gained popularity among his fellow tennis players.

The Lacoste polo shirt is instantly recognisable by its embroidered crocodile logo, which has an interesting backstory. René Lacoste was nicknamed “The Crocodile” by the American press after a bet he made with the captain of the French Davis Cup team. Lacoste had wanted a suitcase made from crocodile skin, and the captain promised to buy it if Lacoste won a crucial match. Though Lacoste didn’t win, the nickname stuck, and he decided to adopt the crocodile as his personal emblem.

The crocodile arises

In 1933, René Lacoste partnered with André Gillier, the owner of the largest French knitwear manufacturing firm at the time, to create “La Chemise Lacoste”. This marked the beginning of the Lacoste brand, and the polo shirt with the distinctive crocodile logo started to be produced on a larger scale. It was the first time a brand’s logo was visibly displayed on an article of clothing, setting a trend that continues to this day.

Over the decades, the Lacoste polo shirt has evolved but has always stayed true to its original design. The shirt’s popularity soared beyond the tennis courts and into everyday fashion, becoming a symbol of casual elegance. It has been worn by celebrities, athletes, and style icons alike.

The brand

The brand expanded its product line, introducing a variety of colours and styles, making the polo shirt a versatile item for all occasions. Lacoste also ventured into other areas of fashion, including footwear, fragrances, and accessories, but the polo shirt remains its most iconic product.

Today, the Lacoste polo shirt continues to be a favourite around the world. It represents a blend of sports heritage and timeless style. Whether dressed up with a blazer or paired with jeans for a casual look, the Lacoste polo shirt is a testament to René Lacoste’s vision of combining comfort and elegance.

In conclusion, the Lacoste polo shirt is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a piece of history. Its creation marked a significant shift in sportswear and fashion, and its enduring popularity is a tribute to its innovative design and the legacy of its founder. As the Lacoste brand continues to grow, the polo shirt remains a beloved icon of style and sophistication.

Watch our Shorts video about Lacoste: