LACOSTE

Origin: Troyes, France

Founded: 1933

Founders: René Lacoste and André Gillier

Brand Story:

Founded in 1933 by French tennis legend René Lacoste—nicknamed "The Crocodile" for his tenacity on the court—Lacoste revolutionized sportswear by introducing the world’s first breathable, short-sleeved cotton piqué polo shirt. Replacing rigid, long-sleeved tennis whites, the iconic L.12.12 polo became an instant classic in both athletic and leisure wear. Instantly recognizable by its signature embroidered green crocodile emblem—the first visible designer logo placed on the outside of a garment—Lacoste seamlessly blends French sports heritage with timeless, relaxed elegance and preppy style worldwide.