Introduction
Lacoste is a legendary French sports fashion brand, founded in 1933 by tennis champion René Lacoste and entrepreneur André Gillier. Known for its iconic crocodile logo and high-quality products, Lacoste has established itself as a reference in the fashion world.
René Lacoste (1904-1996) was renowned French tennis player. He said to his team captain : "If I win this match, you give me this crocodile leather suitcase". He lost the match but he was nicknamed "The Crocodile" for his tenacity on the court. He won ten Grand Slam titles and innovated by creating the first short-sleeved shirt made of breathable fabric. André Gillier was visionary entrepreneur who joined René Lacoste to found the brand.
The crocodile took shape in 1927 under the impetus of designer Robert George. A forerunner in personalisation, René Lacoste immediately had it embroidered on his blazers. A few years later, the polo shirt was born. The crocodile at its heart made Lacoste the first brand to affix a visible logo to a garment.
Lacoste was founded in 1933 with the aim of providing high-quality clothing for tennis. René Lacoste, dissatisfied with traditional tennis attire, designed a mor comfortable and fundtional shirt, marking the beginning of the brand.
In 2024, Lacoste has become a global brand with a presence in over 1,100 stores worlwide in 86 countries. The brand has got 43 online shops, 15,000 sales points and 8,200 associates.
Lacoste's flagship products include polo shirts, sportswear, shoes, perfumes, and accessories. The Lacoste polo shirt is particularly iconic and remains a staple of elegant sports style.
Lacoste's values are elegance, innovation, fair play, and generosity. The brand embodies these values through its products and collaborations.
Many celebrities have worked with Lacoste :
_ Novak Djokovic : The famous tennis player has been an ambassador for Lacoste and has taken part in several campaigns.
_ Venus Williams : A tennis champion and entrepreneur, she has also been an ambassador for Lacoste and has appeared in numerous advertising campaigns.
_ Pierre Niney : The French actor has collaborated with Lacoste on advertising campaigns.
_ Jeon So Mi : A South Korean singer and model.
_ Ahn Hyo Seop : A South Korean actor.
_ Wang Yibo : A Chinese celebrity and professional motorbike racer.
The current CEO of Lacoste is Thierry Guibert. He leads the brand with a strategic vision to maintain its heritage while innovating for the future.
Lacoste is a brand that has successfully combined sport and elegance, innovation and tradition. With its rich heritage and commitment to quality, Lacoste continues to captivate a glabl clientele and make its mark on the history of sports fashion.