Lacoste polo shirts are a classic wardrobe staple known for their quality, style, and the iconic crocodile logo. However, their popularity has made them a frequent target for counterfeiters. Buying a fake Lacoste polo not only means sacrificing quality but also supporting unethical manufacturing. To help you avoid being duped, here’s a detailed guide on how to spot a fake Lacoste polo shirt by identifying key signs of authenticity.
1. Examine the Crocodile Logo Closely
The crocodile emblem is the most recognizable feature of any Lacoste polo, but it’s also the easiest to counterfeit. Here’s what to look for:
- Embroidery Quality: Authentic Lacoste logos are finely embroidered with clean stitching and clearly defined edges. The crocodile’s teeth, eyes, and scales should be sharp and detailed.
- Orientation: The crocodile should face to the right (from the wearer’s perspective) with an open mouth.
- Color Accuracy: The logo’s colors should be vibrant—green body, red mouth, and white teeth.
- No Glue Residue: Counterfeit shirts often use glued-on patches instead of embroidery.
2. Check the Shirt’s Fabric and Feel
Lacoste uses high-quality cotton piqué fabric that feels substantial but breathable.
- Material: Authentic polos use 100% cotton or a cotton blend that feels soft and durable.
- Texture: The piqué knit has a unique textured surface with small, raised dots. If the fabric feels flat, cheap, or synthetic, it’s likely fake.
- Weight: A genuine Lacoste polo feels weighty and sturdy, not flimsy or thin.
3. Inspect the Stitching and Construction
Quality craftsmanship sets real Lacoste polos apart from fakes.
- Seam Quality: Seams should be straight, tight, and even without loose threads.
- Button Attachment: Buttons are securely sewn on with cross-stitched thread, usually matching the shirt color.
- Button Quality: Authentic Lacoste buttons are typically made from natural materials like mother-of-pearl and have a subtle shine, not plastic.
4. Look at the Labels and Tags
Tags provide vital clues about authenticity.
- Main Label: The Lacoste brand name should be cleanly printed or stitched, with consistent font and spacing.
- Made In Label: Lacoste polos are mainly made in France, Peru, or Morocco. If the tag says “Made in China” or another unexpected country, verify with Lacoste’s official manufacturing list.
- Care Tag: Authentic shirts include clear washing instructions, fabric content, and sometimes a batch or serial number.
- Holograms & QR Codes: Some newer Lacoste shirts come with security features like holograms or QR codes to verify authenticity online.
5. Examine the Collar and Placket
- Collar Fabric: Genuine Lacoste collars maintain their shape well and have a fine piqué texture.
- Placket Buttons: The shirt placket should have two or three buttons neatly sewn and spaced evenly.
- Buttonholes: Authentic buttonholes are cleanly stitched without loose threads or uneven edges.
6. Price and Purchase Location
- Price Too Good to Be True: Lacoste polos rarely go on deep discounts. Extremely low prices are often a red flag.
- Authorized Retailers: Always buy from official Lacoste stores, trusted department stores, or verified online retailers.
- Packaging: Genuine Lacoste shirts often come in branded packaging or tags, adding another layer of authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Spotting a fake Lacoste polo shirt requires attention to detail, from the quality of the logo embroidery to fabric texture and stitching. By checking the crocodile emblem, fabric, stitching, labels, and purchase source, you can confidently distinguish authentic Lacoste polos from counterfeits.
Investing in a genuine Lacoste polo guarantees superior quality, durability, and timeless style—so don’t compromise. Use this guide as your checklist before your next purchase to ensure you get the real deal every time.
