Is Lacoste a Luxury Brand? 3 Key Differences Explained

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If you’ve ever wondered, “is Lacoste a luxury brand​?” you’re not alone. Many people see Lacoste’s iconic crocodile logo and associate it with a sporty, upscale vibe. But is Lacoste a luxury brand​ in the same way as Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger? Let’s take a quick look at how these brands stack up in terms of global revenue:

Company	Revenue
Ralph Lauren	$7.28 B
Lacoste	N/A
Tommy Hilfiger	N/A

If you’re asking, “is Lacoste a luxury brand​?” it helps to consider what sets these brands apart. Heritage, product focus, and luxury status are three key factors that can help you decide which brand best matches your personal style and definition of luxury.

Key Takeaways

• Lacoste is called an ‘accessible luxury’ brand. It gives good quality but does not cost as much as top luxury brands.

• Luxury brands are known for being rare, very good quality, and well-made. Lacoste has some of these things but not all of them.

• Lacoste’s brand is worth about $1 billion. Ralph Lauren’s brand is worth $4.7 billion. This shows Lacoste is not at the very top of luxury brands.

• People see Lacoste differently in different places. In some places, it is special. In other places, it is just a normal brand.

• Lacoste sells well when people buy used clothes. It is number one in resale among brands like it. This means many people want it.

• The brand is known for sporty and fancy style. Its famous polo shirts are popular because they are comfy and stylish.

• When picking a brand, think about what you like. Do you care about history, what the brand makes, or if it is fancy?

• If you want to look sporty and nice, Lacoste is a good pick. It gives you good quality and does not cost too much.

What Is Luxury?

When you think about luxury in fashion, you probably picture something rare, expensive, and special. But what really makes a brand luxurious? Let’s break it down so you can spot the world’s best brands in fashion with confidence.

Criteria

Luxury fashion brands stand out because they meet certain standards. Here’s a quick table to show you what experts look for when deciding if a brand belongs among the most valuable fashion brands:

Criteria	Description
Exclusivity	Luxury products are rare, making you feel part of an elite group.
High Quality	Brands use unique, precious materials and focus on top-notch craftsmanship.
Craftsmanship	Skilled professionals create each item with care and attention to detail.
Brand Heritage	A rich history and legacy add to a brand’s luxury status.
Strong Brand Identity	The brand has a clear image that makes it stand out from others.
Storytelling	Every brand has a story that helps you connect with it.
Brand Experience	The way you feel when you shop or wear the brand matters just as much as the product itself.

You’ll notice that luxury isn’t just about price. It’s about how a brand makes you feel and the story it tells.

Exclusivity

Exclusivity is a big deal in luxury fashion. When you buy from the world’s best brands, you join a select group. You might see only a few people wearing a certain bag or watch. That’s because brands like chanel, hermes, and cartier keep their products rare on purpose. This makes you feel special and sets these brands apart from regular fashion labels.

Here are some top brands that often come up when people talk about luxury:

• burberry

• armani

• dior

• gucci

• prada

• valentino

• fendi

• moncler

• tiffany

• omega

• chopard

• breguet

• tod’s

• rolex

These names show up again and again in lists of the world’s best brands. They have a reputation for exclusivity and quality that most valuable fashion brands chase after.

Price

Price is another sign of luxury, but it’s not the only one. You’ll notice that top brands like rolex, hermes, and tiffany charge a lot for their products. That’s because they use the best materials and skilled workers. When you pay more, you’re not just buying a product—you’re buying into a story, a lifestyle, and a piece of history. Even among the world’s best brands, some stand out for their high prices and the value people place on them.

So, when you look at fashion brands and wonder if they’re truly luxurious, check if they meet these criteria. Think about their exclusivity, their story, and how they make you feel. That’s what sets the top brands apart from the rest.

Is Lacoste a Luxury Brand?

 

 

When you ask yourself, is lacoste a luxury brand​, you probably want a clear answer. The truth is, Lacoste sits in a unique spot in the world of fashion. It feels upscale, but it does not always reach the same level as brands like Ralph Lauren. Let’s break down what sets Lacoste apart by looking at its brand position, how people see it, and the value it brings.

Brand Position

Lacoste has built a reputation for sporty elegance. You see the crocodile logo and think of tennis courts, golf courses, and classic polo shirts. The brand started with a focus on sportswear, but now you find Lacoste in many areas of fashion. Still, when you compare is lacoste a luxury brand​ to others, you notice some differences.

Take a look at how Lacoste stacks up against Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger in terms of brand value:

Brand Name	Brand Value in $
Lacoste	$1 billion
Tommy Hilfiger	$1 billion
Ralph Lauren	$4.7 billion

You can see that Ralph Lauren leads by a wide margin. Lacoste and Tommy Hilfiger share the same brand value, which shows they compete in a similar tier. When you ask, is lacoste a luxury brand​, this chart helps you see that Lacoste does not reach the top luxury level, but it still holds strong value in the fashion world.

Market Perception

How people view Lacoste depends on where you live. In some places, Lacoste feels like a status symbol. In others, it blends in with everyday brands. Here’s what people around the world think:

• In some regions, Lacoste is seen as a prestigious brand.

• In Argentina, some connect Lacoste with a subculture called the Wachiturros, which gives it a less positive image.

• In Egypt, Lacoste stands out as a high-status brand. People there see it as more exclusive than brands like Hollister or American Eagle.

• Lacoste’s European roots and limited availability make it feel more luxurious in places where you cannot find it easily.

• Many call Lacoste “accessible luxury.” This means you get a taste of luxury without the high price tag of top-tier brands.

So, is lacoste a luxury brand​? The answer changes based on where you shop and who you ask. In some markets, Lacoste feels special and rare. In others, it is just another nice brand.

Value

When you look at value, you want to know what you get for your money. Lacoste has made big moves in the fashion world. It now ranks first in the second-hand market among similar brands. That means people want to buy and sell Lacoste items, which keeps its value strong.

Here are some facts about Lacoste’s value compared to Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger:

• Lacoste’s market share has grown by 9 percentage points since 2017. This shows more people want to wear Lacoste.

• On average, Lacoste items sell for €27 in the second-hand market. That is higher than Tommy Hilfiger (€25) and Ralph Lauren (€24).

• In 2019, Tommy Hilfiger led the overall market, but Lacoste came in second, ahead of Ralph Lauren.

Fashion experts say Ralph Lauren stands out for luxury and appeals to wealthy shoppers. Tommy Hilfiger draws in younger people with a casual style. Lacoste, on the other hand, is shifting its focus. It now tries to reach a wider audience, especially younger buyers. This move helps Lacoste stay fresh and relevant.

When you ask, is lacoste a luxury brand​, you see that Lacoste offers high quality and strong resale value. It does not have the same luxury status as Ralph Lauren, but it gives you a mix of style, comfort, and value that many people love.

If you want a brand that feels special but does not break the bank, Lacoste could be the answer to your question: is lacoste a luxury brand​ for you?

Brand Comparison

Ralph Lauren

When people think of American luxury, they often think of Ralph Lauren first. The brand began in 1968. Ralph Lauren was a tie salesman before he started Polo Fashions. He had some hard times at the start and almost lost everything. But he did not quit. He used his own money and worked with Peter Strom. This helped Ralph Lauren focus on making new designs. That made the brand grow bigger.

Here’s a quick look at Ralph Lauren’s history:

Year	Event
1968	Polo Fashions is created by Ralph Lauren.
1974	First ads appear in NYC newspapers.
1978	Polo cologne is introduced.
1983	Home furnishings line debuts.
1986	Flagship store opens on Madison Avenue.
1997	Company goes public.
2003	European HQ moves to Geneva.

The Ralph Lauren logo shows a polo player riding a horse. This logo stands for class and style. Ralph Lauren is famous for its polo shirts. You can also find its name on cologne and home items. Most people think Ralph Lauren is the fanciest of these three brands. When you wear it, you feel special and classic.

Lacoste

Lacoste gives off a sporty and classy feeling in fashion. The brand started with René Lacoste, who was a tennis star. He wanted to make sports clothes that were comfy and looked good. The crocodile logo means quality and a love for sports.

The Lacoste polo shirt is the most famous item from the brand. People like it because it looks good and is made well. Wearing Lacoste makes you feel calm but also fancy. The brand is not as high-end as some, but it is nicer than most everyday brands. Lacoste lets you enjoy some luxury without spending too much. If you want both sport and style, Lacoste is a smart pick.

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger is known for “classic American cool.” The brand started in 1985 with clothes based on American looks. In the 1990s, Tommy Hilfiger became popular very fast. This was because of big ads and working with famous people. There was even a huge sign in Times Square that showed Tommy Hilfiger with other big brands.

Here are some key points about Tommy Hilfiger:

• The brand is known for its red, white, and blue logo.

• Working with celebrities made it a hit with young people.

• Tommy Hilfiger now cares more about being eco-friendly.

The Tommy Hilfiger pique polo shirt is bright and has bold stripes. The brand is fun and stylish, but not as fancy as Ralph Lauren or Lacoste. You get good looks and comfort, but the price is easier for most people.

Tip: If you want the most luxury, pick Ralph Lauren. For a sporty but fancy look, choose Lacoste. If you like bold and young styles, Tommy Hilfiger is a good choice.

Quality & Craftsmanship

When you shop for a new shirt, you want something that feels good, lasts long, and fits just right. Let’s see how Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger stack up when it comes to quality and craftsmanship.

Materials

The fabric in your shirt makes a big difference. You might notice that most brands use cotton because it’s soft, breathable, and tough. Some shirts use silk or linen for a lighter feel. If you play sports, you might like performance fabrics that keep you cool and dry. Synthetics like polyester resist wrinkles and stains, but they don’t breathe as well. Blended fabrics mix different materials to save money and add strength.

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find in these brands:

Material	Description
Cotton	Most common, moisture-wicking, breathable, and durable.
Silk	Light, comfortable, and shiny; favored for luxury polo shirts.
Linen	Increasingly popular for knitwear, some brands offer linen polo shirts.
Performance	Designed for athletes, featuring unique properties like odour reduction and UV protection.
Synthetics	Includes polyester; resistant to wrinkling and staining but less breathable.
Blended	Used for corporate shirts; combines durability and stain resistance at a lower price point.

If you want a classic look and feel, cotton is your best bet. Lacoste often uses high-quality cotton, especially in their famous polo shirts. Ralph Lauren also sticks with cotton for most of their polos, while Tommy Hilfiger mixes in more synthetic blends for style and price.

Durability

You want your shirt to last through many washes and busy days. People say Lacoste shirts hold up well, especially because they use strong cotton and careful stitching. Ralph Lauren gets praise for shirts that keep their shape and color, even after lots of wear. Tommy Hilfiger makes sturdy shirts too, but some buyers notice changes as the brand uses more eco-friendly materials.

Here’s what shoppers say about durability:

• Lacoste: High-quality and durable, with a focus on comfort and style. Many shirts are made in France and resist shrinking.

• Ralph Lauren: Keeps shape and color after washing. Some lines may vary, but most shirts last a long time.

• Tommy Hilfiger: Good design and quality. The move to sustainable fabrics may change how long shirts last.

Tip: If you want a shirt that stays looking new, Ralph Lauren and Lacoste are top picks. Tommy Hilfiger is great if you care about eco-friendly choices.

Fit

Fit can make or break your look. Lacoste polos feel relaxed and comfortable, perfect for everyday wear. Ralph Lauren polos have a tailored fit that looks sharp and classic. Tommy Hilfiger polos offer a modern style, sometimes with bold stripes or colors.

Many people say Ralph Lauren fits best if you want a neat, stylish look. Lacoste is the go-to for comfort and easy movement. Tommy Hilfiger works well if you like a trendy, youthful vibe.

If you want a shirt that feels good and lasts, pay attention to the fabric, stitching, and fit. You’ll find that each brand has its own strengths, so pick the one that matches your style and needs.

Price & Value

Price Range

When you shop for Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, or Tommy Hilfiger, you notice the price tags right away. Lacoste usually sits in the middle. You pay more than you would for most high-street brands, but you spend less than you would on top luxury designers. For example, a classic Lacoste polo shirt often costs between $90 and $120. Ralph Lauren polos can range from $85 to $150, depending on the collection. Tommy Hilfiger polos usually cost less, often between $50 and $80.

Shoes tell a similar story. Lacoste sneakers, like the Carnaby Evo, cost more than Tommy Hilfiger but less than some Ralph Lauren styles. You get a sense that Lacoste wants to offer you something special without making you pay luxury prices.

Tip: If you want a brand that feels upscale but does not break your budget, Lacoste gives you a nice balance.

Value for Money

You want to know if you get what you pay for. Fashion critics often look at how well a product is made, how long it lasts, and how it looks. Here’s what they say about Lacoste compared to Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger:

• Lacoste shoes, like the Carnaby Evo, get high marks for craftsmanship and durability. Many people feel the price is fair because the shoes last a long time.

• When critics compare all three brands, Lacoste often ranks in the top three for quality and style.

• Lacoste sits between high-street and luxury brands. You pay more than you would for basic brands, but you get quality that sometimes matches more expensive labels.

You might notice that Lacoste polos keep their shape and color after many washes. The stitching feels strong, and the fabric stays soft. Ralph Lauren also gets praise for quality, but you may pay a bit more for the name. Tommy Hilfiger offers good value, but some people say the quality is not always as high as Lacoste or Ralph Lauren.

Accessibility

You can find Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger in many places around the world. Lacoste has a strong global presence, with stores in big cities and online shops that ship to many countries. The brand keeps growing, too. In a recent quarter, Lacoste reached $1.7 billion in net revenue and saw a 13.7% increase. North America alone brought in $656 million. The company’s gross profit hit $1.2 billion, with a gross margin of 72.3%. Lacoste also gained 1.4 million new customers and grew its direct-to-consumer business by 13% worldwide.

Metric	Value
Net Revenue (Q1)	US$1.7 billion
Revenue Increase	13.7%
North America Revenue	US$656 million
Gross Profit	US$1.2 billion
Gross Margin	72.3%
Direct-to-Consumer Growth	13% globally
New Customers	1.4 million

You see Lacoste in malls, department stores, and online. Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger are just as easy to find. This makes all three brands accessible, so you can shop for your favorite style almost anywhere.

Note: If you want a brand that is easy to buy and offers good value, Lacoste stands out as a smart choice.

Brand Image

Public Perception

When you think about Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger, you probably picture different things. Each brand has its own vibe. People notice these differences right away.

• Lacoste feels sporty and classy. You see the crocodile logo and think of tennis or golf. Many people say Lacoste is for someone who likes to look sharp but also wants to feel comfortable. In some places, wearing Lacoste shows you care about style and quality. In other places, it just feels like a nice, everyday brand.

• Ralph Lauren gives off a strong luxury feel. When you wear Ralph Lauren, you might feel like you belong at a fancy country club. The polo player logo stands for tradition and wealth. People often see Ralph Lauren as the most elegant of the three. If you want to look classic and polished, this brand is for you.

• Tommy Hilfiger is all about fun and youth. The red, white, and blue logo pops out. You might think of music, street style, or bold colors. Many young people love Tommy Hilfiger because it feels cool and relaxed. It does not try to be as fancy as the other two.

Note: Your friends might see you differently depending on which brand you wear. If you want to look sporty, go for Lacoste. If you want to look rich and classic, Ralph Lauren is the way to go. For a fun and modern look, Tommy Hilfiger fits best.

Global Reach

You can find these brands almost everywhere. They have stores in big cities and online shops that ship to many countries. Still, each brand has its own story when it comes to global reach.

Brand	Number of Countries	Number of Stores (approx.)
Lacoste	120+	1,100+
Ralph Lauren	80+	500+
Tommy Hilfiger	100+	2,000+

• Lacoste has a strong presence in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. You see Lacoste in malls, airports, and even sports events. The brand keeps growing, especially in places like China and the Middle East.

• Ralph Lauren focuses on luxury markets. You find their stores in high-end shopping areas. They do not have as many stores as Tommy Hilfiger, but each one feels special.

• Tommy Hilfiger is everywhere. The brand has the most stores and reaches many young shoppers. You see Tommy Hilfiger in big cities and small towns.

If you travel or shop online, you can get any of these brands. Lacoste stands out for its sporty style, Ralph Lauren for its luxury, and Tommy Hilfiger for its wide reach and youthful energy.

Key Differences

When you compare Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger, you see three main differences. Each brand has its own story, focus, and place in fashion. Let’s look at what makes them different so you can choose the one that matches your style.

Heritage

Heritage is the history and story of a brand. It’s about where the brand comes from and who wears it. Each brand has a special background that gives it a unique feel.

Here’s a quick look at their heritage:

Brand	Key Heritage Elements	Notable Figures Associated
Ralph Lauren	Defined American Preppy style with Polo line; classic and upscale casual wear.	Princess Diana, Wes Anderson
Tommy Hilfiger	Contributed to Preppy style with a modern twist; popular among younger generations.	David Bowie, Britney Spears
Lacoste	Sporty yet refined designs; polo shirts as a status symbol in Preppy subculture.	John F. Kennedy, Clint Eastwood

Ralph Lauren is known for its classic American preppy style. You might think of someone at a fancy club or party. Princess Diana and Wes Anderson have worn Ralph Lauren, which makes it seem very classy. Tommy Hilfiger has a younger and more modern take on preppy style. Stars like David Bowie and Britney Spears have worn Tommy Hilfiger, so it feels cool and new. Lacoste has a sporty but fancy look. The brand’s polo shirts became a sign of status, especially for people who like preppy fashion. Famous people like John F. Kennedy and Clint Eastwood have worn Lacoste, which gives it a timeless style.

Product Focus

Each brand puts its main effort into different things. Ralph Lauren makes classic, fancy clothes. You find dress shirts, blazers, and nice accessories. The brand wants you to look polished and elegant.

Lacoste focuses on sporty and stylish clothes. The polo shirt is the most important item for Lacoste. You see tennis-inspired outfits, simple lines, and comfy fabrics. Lacoste wants you to feel relaxed but still look neat.

Tommy Hilfiger goes for bold and young styles. The brand uses bright colors, big logos, and trendy looks. You get a fun and energetic feeling when you wear Tommy Hilfiger.

If you want a style that never goes out of fashion, pick Ralph Lauren. For sporty comfort, Lacoste is a good choice. If you like bright and modern looks, Tommy Hilfiger is for you.

Luxury Status

Luxury status is where the biggest difference shows up. Ralph Lauren is at the top. The brand feels special and high-end. You pay more, but you get a sense of tradition and class.

Lacoste is in the middle. It gives you good quality and a bit of luxury, but it’s easier to buy. You get sporty style without paying the highest price.

Tommy Hilfiger is the easiest to get. The brand is about style and fun, not being rare. You can find Tommy Hilfiger in many places, and the prices are lower.

In short, Ralph Lauren is the most luxurious, Lacoste is sporty and classy, and Tommy Hilfiger is young and fun with less status. Your choice depends on what you care about most—heritage, product focus, or luxury status.

Which Is More Luxurious?

Summary

You might still ask which brand is the most fancy. Let’s make it easy to understand. Each brand has things it does best, but some feel more special.

• Ralph Lauren is at the top. It costs more, has classic looks, and feels very fancy. Many experts say Ralph Lauren is the most famous and luxurious of these brands.

• Lacoste gives you a sporty and nice style. In France, Lacoste is searched for the most among luxury brands. This shows it is popular and has a strong name. Lacoste feels special, but the price is not too high.

• Tommy Hilfiger has a preppy and young look. It is like Lacoste in style, but it is not as fancy as Ralph Lauren.

Here’s a simple table to show the differences:

Brand	Luxury Level	Price Point	Style Focus
Ralph Lauren	High	$$$	Classic, Iconic
Lacoste	Mid-Luxury	$$	Sporty, Elegant
Tommy Hilfiger	Accessible	$	Preppy, Youthful

If you want the fanciest brand, pick Ralph Lauren. Lacoste gives you some luxury with a sporty feel. Tommy Hilfiger is cool and fun, but not as rare.

Is Lacoste a luxury brand? Lacoste gives you sporty style and good quality. But it is not as fancy as Ralph Lauren. There are three main ways these brands are different: their history, what they focus on, and how fancy they are. Ralph Lauren is best if you want something classic and timeless. Many people pick Ralph Lauren for its style and how long it lasts. Lacoste is great for people who care about the environment and like new online features. When you choose a brand, think about what is most important to you. Do you care more about style, what the brand stands for, or how special it feels?

FAQ

Is Lacoste more expensive than Tommy Hilfiger?

Lacoste usually costs more than Tommy Hilfiger. Lacoste polos and shoes have higher prices because of their quality and sporty look. If you want to save money, Tommy Hilfiger is a better choice.

Can you consider Lacoste a luxury brand?

Lacoste is between regular and luxury brands. It gives you good quality and style, but it is not as fancy as Ralph Lauren. Many people call Lacoste “accessible luxury.”

What makes Ralph Lauren more luxurious?

Ralph Lauren is special for its classic style, long history, and higher prices. You see it in fancy stores and on famous people. If you want something that feels really fancy, Ralph Lauren is the best pick.

Are Lacoste polos good quality?

Yes! Lacoste polos use strong cotton and good stitching. Many people say these shirts last long and feel nice. You get both style and strength.

Which brand is best for young people?

Tommy Hilfiger is very popular with young shoppers. The bright colors and cool styles make it a hit with teens and young adults. If you want a fun and modern look, Tommy Hilfiger is a great pick.

Where can you buy Lacoste products?

You can buy Lacoste in malls, big stores, and online. The brand has stores in over 120 countries. Shopping online gives you the most choices and sizes.

Do Lacoste items hold their value?

Many Lacoste items keep their value, especially when resold. You might sell your old Lacoste polo for a good price if you take care of it.

Is Lacoste eco-friendly?

Lacoste now uses more earth-friendly materials and better practices. You see more recycled fabrics and green packaging. The brand wants to help the planet.