Lacoste

Introduction

LACOSTE is a French brand co-founded by tennis legend René Lacoste and André Gillier in 1933. Renowned for its iconic crocodile emblem, the brand emerged from the desire to create a functional yet stylish polo shirt that would allow players to perform comfortably on the court. Lacoste's background in sports and his deep understanding of athletic needs contributed significantly to the brand's early success. As pioneers in combining athletic wear with fashion, they set a new standard for sports apparel that valued both performance and aesthetics.

The philosophy behind LACOSTE revolves around the idea of "the art of living" that champions elegance, authenticity, and casual sophistication. This approach reflects the brand's commitment to quality craftsmanship, seeking to blend tradition with contemporary trends. By emphasizing a lifestyle that resonates with natural grace and effortless style, LACOSTE has cultivated a loyal following that appreciates not only its products but the lifestyle it represents. The brand continues to embody a spirit of innovation while honoring its heritage, creating pieces that resonate with both athletes and fashion enthusiasts.

What makes LACOSTE truly special is its ability to seamlessly integrate sport and style. The brand's distinctive aesthetic and commitment to quality have earned it a prominent place in both the fashion and sportswear markets. With a legacy built around the values of authenticity, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the art of play, LACOSTE celebrates the connection between active lifestyles and fashionable expression. This unique positioning enables LACOSTE to maintain relevance across generations while continuing to inspire individuals to embrace their personal style.

Signature Products

LACOSTE products are celebrated not only for their quality but also for their distinctive style that reflects the brand's ethos. Each piece contributes to defining the brand's identity as a blend of sport and elegance.

• Lacoste Polo Shirt : The original and iconic piece that embodies the brand's spirit, combining comfort and style for both athletic and casual wear.
• Lacoste Sneakers : Stylish footwear that reflects the brand's sporty elegance, perfect for both on and off the court.
• Lacoste Bags : Functional yet fashionable bags that carry the signature crocodile logo, designed for everyday use.
• Lacoste Swimwear : A collection of chic and performance-focused swimwear, merging style with functionality for beach and pool outings.

Materials and Ingredients Used by LACOSTE

• Crocodile Leather : This is a luxurious and durable material obtained from crocodiles. LACOSTE utilizes this material in some of its premium leather goods, such as bags and belts, due to its unique texture and high status appeal.
• Organic Cotton : Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. LACOSTE incorporates organic cotton into its apparel lines to appeal to consumers seeking sustainable options while maintaining comfort and breathability.
• Viscose : Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp. LACOSTE uses viscose in its clothing to provide a soft drape and silky feel, often found in dresses and blouses that require a more fluid appearance.
• Cotton : A widely used natural fiber, cotton is known for its softness and durability. LACOSTE includes cotton in many of its basic tees and polo shirts, as it offers comfort in a variety of styles while being easy to care for.
• Polyester : Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is resistant to shrinking and stretching. LACOSTE employs polyester in sportswear and active clothing for its moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal for athletic activities.
• Rayon : Rayon is a versatile fiber made from regenerated cellulose. LACOSTE uses rayon in various garments for its smooth texture and excellent drape, which enhances the overall aesthetic of the clothing.
• Bamboo : Bamboo fabric is soft and naturally antibacterial, making it a comfortable choice for clothing. LACOSTE explores bamboo as an ingredient in some of its eco-friendly lines, providing a sustainable alternative with a luxurious feel.
• Supima Cotton : Supima cotton is a high-quality cotton known for its extra-long fibers, resulting in a softer and stronger fabric. LACOSTE utilizes Supima cotton in its premium products to ensure superior quality and durability in their iconic polo shirts.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From LACOSTE

These issues are related to the supply chain of the brand and need to be taken into consideration:

Animal Welfare Issues:

The use of Crocodile Leather poses significant animal welfare concerns due to the method of farming and harvesting these animals. Inhumane treatment, illegal poaching, and the conditions in which these animals are kept can be controversial. For instance, investigations frequently reveal harsh conditions in crocodile farms, with insufficient space for the animals to move and thrive, which raises serious ethical questions.

High Carbon Footprint:

Several materials including Crocodile Leather, Polyester, and Nylon have high carbon footprints due to extensive use of energy in their production processes. For instance, the production of synthetic fibers like Nylon and Polyester is highly energy-intensive, often sourced from fossil fuels, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

Water Consumption:

Organic Cotton, Cotton, and Bamboo require substantial water usage throughout their growth and processing phases. An example of this is the Aral Sea crisis, where unsustainable cotton farming led to dramatic water depletion, turning one of the world's largest lakes into a desert.

Chemical Pollution:

Materials like Viscose, Rayon, Nylon, and Polyurethane involve extensive chemical processing which can lead to pollution of air, water, and soil. The production of Viscose, for instance, involves carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical that can harm workers' health and pollute local waterways.

Microplastic Pollution:

Polyester and Recycled Polyester contribute to microplastic pollution. With each wash, these materials release tiny plastic fibers into waterways, which eventually make their way into the oceans, affecting marine life and entering the human food chain.

Non-biodegradability:

Materials such as Polyester, Elastane, and Polyurethane do not decompose naturally. They accumulate in landfills and environments causing long-term pollution. For example, it can take hundreds of years for Polyester to break down, posing a prolonged risk to ecosystems.

Deforestation:

Viscose, Rayon, and Bamboo can contribute to deforestation if the raw material sourcing is not managed sustainably. The extraction of hardwood for Viscose production particularly has led to significant deforestation in tropical regions, affecting biodiversity and contributing to climate change.

Ethical Concerns:

Ethical concerns are prevalent in the use of Crocodile Leather and Wool. There have been numerous reports about the maltreatment of animals in these industries. For instance, some wool production practices involve mulesing, which is a painful process for sheep and raises issues related to animal welfare.

Pesticide Usage:

Cotton and even Organic Cotton, to some extent, involve the use of pesticides and insecticides. Conventional cotton, in particular, is one of the most pesticide-intensive crops, which can lead to soil and water contamination and has adverse effects on farmers' health.

Soil Degradation:

The cultivation of Cotton, Organic Cotton, and Supima Cotton can lead to soil degradation. Intensive farming practices without adequate crop rotation or soil regeneration techniques can lead to nutrient depletion, making the land less fertile over time.

Chemical Processing:

The production of Bamboo fabric and Elastane involves robust chemical processing that generates pollutants. Even though bamboo itself grows rapidly and sustainably, converting it into textile-grade material often requires toxic chemicals that can pollute waterways and pose risks to factory workers.