Lacoste size guide: the numbered system and fit
If you have ever looked at the label of a Lacoste polo, you may have wondered why, instead of a size, there is a number such as 3, 4 o 5. This is the Lacoste system, and once you understand it, it becomes very simple. As authorized retailers, this is the question we are asked most often: here is the complete guide, with the conversion chart and fit advice.
Lacoste sizes: the numbered system (from 2 to 8)
Lacoste uses its own numbered scale, from 2 to 8, instead of the classic S-M-L sizes. It is a historic legacy of the brand, and each number corresponds to a precise international size. The rule is straightforward: the higher the number, the larger the size.
Lacoste size conversion chart
Here is what each Lacoste number corresponds to, in letters and Italian sizing (valid for polo shirts, T-shirts and knitwear):
| Lacoste Size | International | Italian (IT) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | XS | 44 |
| 3 | S | 46 |
| 4 | M | 48 |
| 5 | L | 50 |
| 6 | XL | 52 |
| 7 | XXL | 54 |
| 8 | 3XL | 56 |
So, if you wear a M, your Lacoste size is 4; if you wear an L, it is 5; an XL corresponds to 6. Simple.
How the Lacoste polo fits (classic and slim)
The iconic L.12.12 polo comes in two fits, and this is where you determine the right size:
- Classic fit (Original) — regular, relaxed fit, the truest to the Lacoste spirit. Choose your usual size: the petit piqué fabric does not feel tight and settles well after washing.
- Slim fit — more fitted and tapered. If you like a clean look, your usual size will work well; if you prefer a more comfortable fit, go up one size.
In general, Lacoste has a regular fit: start with your usual international size and use the chart to find the corresponding number.
Lacoste: what does your size correspond to?
The most frequently asked questions, with quick answers:
- What does Lacoste size 3 correspond to? → S (Italian 46).
- Lacoste size 4? → M (Italian 48).
- Lacoste size 5? → L (Italian 50).
- Lacoste size 6? → XL (Italian 52).
- Lacoste size 7? → XXL (Italian 54).
For Lacoste shoes and sneakers, standard European sizing (EU) applies instead: you will find the size listed on each product page.
How to measure your chest to get the right size
Chest measurement is the most reliable reference, much more so than your usual size. Place the tape measure under your armpits, keep it horizontal and breathe normally: the number you read is your size.
| Lacoste Size | Chest |
|---|---|
| 2 | 86–89 cm |
| 3 | 90–93 cm |
| 4 | 94–97 cm |
| 5 | 98–101 cm |
| 6 | 102–105 cm |
| 7 | 106–109 cm |
| 8 | 110–113 cm |
| 9 | 114–117 cm |
How to choose Lacoste women's sizing
Lacoste women's sizes follow French sizing, from 34 to 46, rather than the men's scale from 2 to 9. As a practical rule, add 4 to the French size to obtain the Italian size: an FR 42 corresponds to an IT 46, approximately an L (in Italy, 42 is an S, 44 an M and 46 an L). Here too, when in doubt, the chest remains the measurement you can rely on. Find the women's styles in the Lacoste women's collection.
How to make it last
Wash it inside out at 30 degrees, avoid the tumble dryer and always iron it inside out, without going over the crocodile. Petit piqué is a durable fabric: cared for this way, an L.12.12 really does last for years. That's why at the counter we recommend spending once and spending well, and you'll find it throughout the Lacoste collection.
Discover Lacoste at Vittorio Citro
You will find L.12.12 polo shirts, knitwear and Lacoste sneakers in the Lacoste men's collection and the complete Lacoste collection, from an authorised retailer, with guaranteed authenticity. To choose the right model, also read our Lacoste polo guide: models and fit.
Frequently asked questions
What do Lacoste size numbers mean? Lacoste uses a numerical scale from 2 to 8 instead of letters: 2 = XS, 3 = S, 4 = M, 5 = L, 6 = XL, 7 = XXL, 8 = 3XL. The higher the number, the larger the size.
What does Lacoste size 4 correspond to? Lacoste size 4 corresponds to an M, or Italian size 48.
What size is Lacoste size 6? Lacoste size 6 corresponds to an XL, or Italian size 52.
How does the Lacoste polo fit, tight or loose? The fit is regular. The classic fit (Original) is relaxed and true to size; the slim fit is more fitted. In both cases, you can start with your usual international size.
Do Lacoste shoe sizes follow the same system? No: Lacoste shoes and sneakers use the standard European (EU) sizing. The numerical system from 2 to 8 applies to polo shirts, T-shirts and clothing.
For converting between European, UK and US sizes - and for the corresponding measurements in centimetres, the only reference that remains consistent from one brand to another - you will find all the charts in our size converter.