Lacoste polo shirts: the styles and how they really fit

Polo Lacoste: i modelli e come vestono davvero

The Lacoste polo is one of those garments that never goes out of style: you buy it once and wear it for years, on its own in summer and under a jacket in transitional seasons. But with the various models and sizes, it's not always clear what to choose. As authorized retailers, this is the question we're asked most often in store - so here's our practical guide, without beating around the bush.

The L.12.12: the original that started it all

When people say "Lacoste polo", they almost always mean the L.12.12, the polo created in 1933 from the idea of René Lacoste, the tennis player nicknamed "the Crocodile" - hence the logo. The name tells the story of the garment: the L for Lacoste, the breathable cotton petit piqué fabric, the short sleeves, and the prototype number René approved. It's the polo with a ribbed collar, two buttons, and an embroidered crocodile on the chest.

Petit piqué is the key: a lightweight, breathable honeycomb cotton that holds its shape and lasts over time. That's why a ten-year-old L.12.12 can still be perfect.

Classic fit or slim fit: how it fits

The same L.12.12 comes in two fits, and this is where you choose the right size:

  • Classic fit (Original) - the historic fit, soft and straight through the body. This is the one we recommend if you want the "real" polo: comfortable, and designed to be worn tucked in or out of your trousers.
  • Slim fit - more fitted and tapered, following the body's lines more closely. Suitable if you prefer it close to the body, perhaps under a jacket.

Our advice: if you're between two sizes, start with the classic fit in your usual size - the petit piqué doesn't tighten, and the polo settles well with washing. If you love a clean, close-fitting look, go for the slim fit.

How to choose your size

This is the brand's distinctive feature: Lacoste has historically used a numerical scale from 2 to 8. The conversion is straightforward — 3 = S, 4 = M, 5 = L, 6 = XL, 7 = XXL (2 is XS) — and both sizes are shown on each polo shirt's product page. The classic fit is regular, while the slim fit feels approximately half a size smaller. If you have an average build, your usual size works well in the classic fit; if you are between sizes and want a more comfortable polo shirt, choose the larger size. The size and fit of each model are listed on its product page; if you are unsure, contact us before ordering. The complete size-by-size conversion, including Italian and US sizing, can be found in the Lacoste size guide.

A note on washing: wash at 30°C, turn the polo shirt inside out, and leave it to air-dry. Petit piqué does not respond well to high-temperature tumble drying — cared for this way, it retains its shape and color for years.

Not just polo shirts

Today, Lacoste is much more than polo shirts: cotton and merino wool sweatshirts and sweaters, T-shirts, trousers, and sneakers. But the polo shirt remains the signature piece and the perfect place to start. Discover all the brand's offerings in the Lacoste men's collection and, if you're looking for polo shirts from every brand, explore Vittorio Citro's men's polo shirts. The women's line is available in the Lacoste women's collection.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Lacoste L.12.12 polo shirt? It is Lacoste's original polo shirt, created in 1933, in cotton petit piqué fabric with a ribbed collar, two buttons, and the embroidered crocodile. The name refers to the fabric, the short sleeves, and the number of the prototype approved by René Lacoste.

How does the Lacoste polo shirt fit: tight or loose? It depends on the model: the classic fit (Original) is regular and relaxed, while the slim fit is more fitted. For a comfortable fit, choose the classic fit in your usual size.

What size Lacoste polo shirt should I choose? Lacoste uses a numerical scale from 2 to 8: 3 = S, 4 = M, 5 = L, 6 = XL, 7 = XXL. For the classic fit, choose your usual size; for the slim fit, consider one size up if you prefer a less fitted look. The size conversion is provided on each polo shirt's product page.

How should I wash a Lacoste polo shirt to avoid damaging it? Wash at 30°C with the polo shirt turned inside out, then air-dry it. Avoid high-temperature tumble drying: this helps the petit piqué retain its shape and color for longer.

Are the Lacoste polo shirts on Vittorio Citro authentic? Yes, all Lacoste polo shirts are 100% authentic, sourced from an authorized retailer, with an authenticity guarantee and fast 24/48-hour shipping.

0 comments

Leave a comment