The History of Lacoste: From Tennis Court to Global Fashion Icon
Lacoste is one of the world’s most recognisable fashion brands, famous for its green crocodile logo and timeless polo shirts. Founded in 1933 by tennis legend René Lacoste and entrepreneur André Gillier, the brand has grown from the tennis court to become a leader in global sports fashion.
If you want to shop the latest styles, explore our full Lacoste collection here.
Who Started Lacoste?
Lacoste was founded in 1933 by René Lacoste, a French tennis champion nicknamed “The Crocodile” for his tenacity, and André Gillier, owner of France’s largest knitwear manufacturer at the time. Together they created La Chemise Lacoste, producing the now-iconic short-sleeved polo shirt designed by René for freedom of movement on the court.
This was one of the first times a logo appeared on the outside of clothing a revolution in sports fashion.
You can shop our Lacoste polos here.
Where Is Lacoste Based?
Lacoste is a French company with its global headquarters in Paris, and strong roots in Troyes, France, where knitwear production played a key role in the brand’s early success. Today, Lacoste operates over 1,100 stores in 98 countries, while continuing to embrace its French heritage.
Who Owns Lacoste?
In 2012, Lacoste was acquired by Maus Frères, a Swiss family-owned group that also manages other international brands. This ownership has helped Lacoste expand globally while preserving its heritage of elegance and innovation.
The Growth of Lacoste Through the Decades
1930s – The Birth of the Polo
René Lacoste introduced his breathable short-sleeved polo in 1933, embroidered with the crocodile logo. This marked the beginning of sportswear as we know it today.
1950s–1970s – Global Expansion
By the 1950s, Lacoste polos were licensed for the U.S. market under Izod Lacoste, bringing the crocodile to a new audience. By the 1970s, Lacoste was a fixture in sportswear worldwide.
1980s – From Courts to Culture
Lacoste became synonymous not just with tennis but with casual fashion. Its polo shirts, shorts, and jackets gained popularity in both American prep culture and European football terraces.
2000s – Modernising the Crocodile
In the early 2000s, Lacoste refreshed its designs under creative direction from Christophe Lemaire and later Felipe Oliveira Baptista, blending classic heritage with contemporary fashion.
2010s–Today – Streetwear & Sports Icons
From collaborations with Supreme to partnerships with tennis superstar Novak Djokovic, Lacoste has re-established itself as a style leader. Today, it balances sportswear, streetwear, and luxury with equal influence.
You can shop Lacoste tracksuits, shorts, t-shirts, and jackets.
Lacoste in Fashion Today
While Lacoste began on the tennis court, it has become a true fashion statement. The crocodile is now seen not only in sport but also in streetwear, music, and global culture. From tennis sweaters in the 1930s to streetwear collaborations in the 2020s, Lacoste has bridged generations with its mix of elegance and sport.
Whether you’re looking for classic polos, modern tracksuits, or casual jackets, Lacoste continues to embody timeless style.
Lacoste Today
With over 8,200 employees, 1,100 stores, and availability in 98 countries, Lacoste remains a global powerhouse. Its crocodile logo represents elegance, tenacity, and freedom of movement. Values René Lacoste lived by on the court.
If you’re ready to upgrade your wardrobe, shop the full Lacoste collection here.
FAQs About Lacoste
When did Lacoste start?
Lacoste was founded in 1933 by René Lacoste and André Gillier.
Who owns Lacoste?
Lacoste is owned by the Swiss family-owned group Maus Frères, who acquired it in 2012.
Where is Lacoste based?
The company is headquartered in Paris, with historic roots in Troyes, France.
Who started Lacoste?
René Lacoste, a tennis champion, and André Gillier, a French knitwear entrepreneur.
What is Lacoste famous for?
Lacoste is famous for its crocodile logo, polo shirts, sportswear, and its influence in both tennis and global street fashion.
Final Thoughts
From the tennis courts of the 1930s to global fashion runways, Lacoste has always stood for elegance, innovation, and style. Whether you’re dressing for sport, leisure, or everyday wear, the crocodile remains a symbol of quality and confidence.
Explore the full Lacoste collection on our website today.
The History of Lacoste: From Tennis Court to Global Fashion Icon
The History of Lacoste: From Tennis Court to Global Fashion Icon
Lacoste is one of the world’s most recognisable fashion brands, famous for its green crocodile logo and timeless polo shirts. Founded in 1933 by tennis legend René Lacoste and entrepreneur André Gillier, the brand has grown from the tennis court to become a leader in global sports fashion.
If you want to shop the latest styles, explore our full Lacoste collection here.
Who Started Lacoste?
Lacoste was founded in 1933 by René Lacoste, a French tennis champion nicknamed “The Crocodile” for his tenacity, and André Gillier, owner of France’s largest knitwear manufacturer at the time. Together they created La Chemise Lacoste, producing the now-iconic short-sleeved polo shirt designed by René for freedom of movement on the court.
This was one of the first times a logo appeared on the outside of clothing a revolution in sports fashion.
You can shop our Lacoste polos here.
Where Is Lacoste Based?
Lacoste is a French company with its global headquarters in Paris, and strong roots in Troyes, France, where knitwear production played a key role in the brand’s early success. Today, Lacoste operates over 1,100 stores in 98 countries, while continuing to embrace its French heritage.
Who Owns Lacoste?
In 2012, Lacoste was acquired by Maus Frères, a Swiss family-owned group that also manages other international brands. This ownership has helped Lacoste expand globally while preserving its heritage of elegance and innovation.
The Growth of Lacoste Through the Decades
1930s – The Birth of the Polo
René Lacoste introduced his breathable short-sleeved polo in 1933, embroidered with the crocodile logo. This marked the beginning of sportswear as we know it today.
1950s–1970s – Global Expansion
By the 1950s, Lacoste polos were licensed for the U.S. market under Izod Lacoste, bringing the crocodile to a new audience. By the 1970s, Lacoste was a fixture in sportswear worldwide.
1980s – From Courts to Culture
Lacoste became synonymous not just with tennis but with casual fashion. Its polo shirts, shorts, and jackets gained popularity in both American prep culture and European football terraces.
2000s – Modernising the Crocodile
In the early 2000s, Lacoste refreshed its designs under creative direction from Christophe Lemaire and later Felipe Oliveira Baptista, blending classic heritage with contemporary fashion.
2010s–Today – Streetwear & Sports Icons
From collaborations with Supreme to partnerships with tennis superstar Novak Djokovic, Lacoste has re-established itself as a style leader. Today, it balances sportswear, streetwear, and luxury with equal influence.
You can shop Lacoste tracksuits, shorts, t-shirts, and jackets.
Lacoste in Fashion Today
While Lacoste began on the tennis court, it has become a true fashion statement. The crocodile is now seen not only in sport but also in streetwear, music, and global culture. From tennis sweaters in the 1930s to streetwear collaborations in the 2020s, Lacoste has bridged generations with its mix of elegance and sport.
Whether you’re looking for classic polos, modern tracksuits, or casual jackets, Lacoste continues to embody timeless style.
Lacoste Today
With over 8,200 employees, 1,100 stores, and availability in 98 countries, Lacoste remains a global powerhouse. Its crocodile logo represents elegance, tenacity, and freedom of movement. Values René Lacoste lived by on the court.
If you’re ready to upgrade your wardrobe, shop the full Lacoste collection here.
FAQs About Lacoste
When did Lacoste start?
Lacoste was founded in 1933 by René Lacoste and André Gillier.
Who owns Lacoste?
Lacoste is owned by the Swiss family-owned group Maus Frères, who acquired it in 2012.
Where is Lacoste based?
The company is headquartered in Paris, with historic roots in Troyes, France.
Who started Lacoste?
René Lacoste, a tennis champion, and André Gillier, a French knitwear entrepreneur.
What is Lacoste famous for?
Lacoste is famous for its crocodile logo, polo shirts, sportswear, and its influence in both tennis and global street fashion.
Final Thoughts
From the tennis courts of the 1930s to global fashion runways, Lacoste has always stood for elegance, innovation, and style. Whether you’re dressing for sport, leisure, or everyday wear, the crocodile remains a symbol of quality and confidence.
Explore the full Lacoste collection on our website today.