When you’re devoted to the enduring preppy label however wish to department out, there are many manufacturers like Lacoste on the market. In lieu of their ninetieth anniversary, it couldn’t be a greater time to pay homage to the heritage model whereas additionally trying out alternate options that will provide one thing barely completely different at various value factors.
The model acquired placed on the map within the late Seventies and ’80s, however its origins attain all the best way again to the ’30s when tennis legend and genius inventor Rene Lacoste turned his nickname into Lacoste. He was the primary one to place a brand on a garment, giving us the notorious crocodile tennis polo, beginning a journey that even immediately combines developments in tech sports activities gear with fashionable vogue.
There are different manufacturers that boast related roots. Some make gear for particular sports activities that double as vogue traits; others have gone on to outline what it means to be a prep, a wasp, and outline a significant side of American and British vogue.
Let’s take a peek on the 10 Lacoste-like manufacturers beneath.
Key Takeaways
For this quest, I started by poring over a whole lot of name and buyer evaluations and sifted by way of the best-selling vogue and sportswear manufacturers till I whittled it right down to the ten finalists you see on this checklist. General, the most effective model like Lacoste is FILA as a result of it’s stylish, well-made sportswear with a significant emphasis on tech. For a much less sporty, nonetheless very preppy providing, take a look at US Polo Assn.
Why this model is nice: Very similar to Lacoste, FILA can be wealthy in sports activities historical past. Established in 1911, FILA additionally grew to become common within the ’80s, having its second within the stylish highlight and now discovering itself a strong, established model within the sportswear/athleisure division famend worldwide for its high quality.
They at all times deal with tech first, so irrespective of how enticing a pair of sweatpants, golf shorts, or tennis shirts could seem, you’re going to like the best way it feels once you put on it.
Why I highlighted this product: Combining a timeless classic look with the most effective know-how of immediately, this efficiency polo is ideal for the tennis prepster. Coming in 4 basic colours, this iconic 1975 tee is ideal for the court docket. It’s sweat-wicking, provides UV solar safety, and is manufactured with antimicrobial properties to maintain undesirable odors at bay.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: Though it’s actually a classy sports activities model, it may not carry the identical ‘high-end’ really feel as Lacoste.
Why this model is nice: A very trendy model, Wahts provides preppy mainstays with a younger and stylish enchantment. Fifteen years in the past, the Dutch founder, a Silicon Valley innovator, seen the informal nature of tech enterprise put on and wished to capitalize on the change in vogue.
As we speak, the model combines technical materials with luxurious supplies in basic silhouettes and sustainable practices to provide the ‘new classic,’ combining vogue with performance and flexibility.
Why I highlighted this product: A clear and informal but elevated pair of shorts is what each prepster wants. You may even costume this pair up with some loafers if want be. With a relaxed, up to date match, they’re constituted of a complicated cotton pique material that makes them really easy to slip on within the morning with out feeling too slouchy or informal. I like the elastic waist and hidden zip facet pockets for a lean silhouette.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: Lacoste is a reasonably logo-heavy model, whereas Wahts is fairly clear and easy.
Why this model is nice: Polished but comfy, Collars & Co. has discovered a method to make dressing in a collared shirt for work really bearable. The model prides itself on high-quality supplies, wonderful match, and people small particulars that basically make its polo shirt higher than the remainder.
Born out of the battle of 1 working skilled to mix type and luxury, it was first noticed (and funded) on Shark Tank. Now, you should purchase their basic males’s preppy type or peruse their options in the entire main males’s magazines.
Why I highlighted this product: Based mostly on the Italian quiet luxurious pattern (vital for a real wasp), the Portofino Pique Cotton Polo is simply as technically savvy as it’s cozy. It’s acquired a sexy form with simply the correct match on the arms and the proper quantity of drape all through the physique.
The elegant cotton pique is a luxurious textured sample that mixes type with sturdiness. It’s tremendous tender, breathable, hypoallergenic, and feels superb on the pores and skin.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: The fabric on a few of their polos seems shiny in sure lights.
Why this model is nice: When you usually flip to Lacoste for equipment, then you may additionally like Roderer. Launched in Dubai in 2016 underneath the ‘less is more’ idea, the model is all about having fewer gadgets however investing in high-quality, well-made items with a clear, timeless aesthetic.
Comparable in product vary, measurement, form, and look to Lacoste, these luggage are true luxurious necessities, specializing in that understated, minimalist sophistication that’s all the trend as of late.
Why I highlighted this product: Very similar to Lacoste’s messenger luggage, the Award bag is fashionable, compact, and extremely versatile. It’s constituted of attractive handmade, soft-grain Italian leather-based and is clear save for the silver {hardware} and silver metal brand discreetly positioned on its entrance. Matches each an iPad and a laptop computer and likewise is available in a mini measurement for shorter, playful excursions.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: The value level is a bit increased than Lacoste right here, however it offers you a similar really feel and one thing barely completely different than the plenty.
Why this model is nice: When you love turning to Lacoste to your kicks, then you may additionally like Tropicfeel. These sneakers carry the identical preppy profile and trend-worthy silhouettes. As a lot as Lacoste is a heritage model and banks on custom, they’re additionally no stranger to innovation and undergoes fixed updates to really feel recent.
Enter Tropicfeel. The model is fairly new however locations a excessive emphasis on extremely useful journey and sports activities gear with a pleasant, timeless aptitude as well. Plus, I like their huge deal with sustainability and transparency as a licensed B-Corp.
Why I highlighted this product: The right Americana shoe for the informal prep, the Sundown AC75 sneaker, which is a part of their Sundown America’s Cup version, is available in a number of colours, however I find it irresistible in navy with white and purple shoelace holes.
Boasting 1000’s of stellar evaluations and a very good value level, it shortly transforms into a cosy slipper for severe seashore vibes. I like that it’s tremendous light-weight, water-friendly, and slip-resistant, plus it’s anti-bacterial for odor management.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: Though you will get sneakers and a few journey gear right here, the big selection of clothes obtainable at Lacoste isn’t discovered right here.
Why this model is nice: Because the official type of the Kentucky Derby, the Premier Lacrosse League, and head of the Charles Regatta, Winery Vines, it’s secure to say, has preppy down pat. It’s been seen on the likes of Barack Obama and Prince Harry, simply in case you want one other stamp of approval. Household-owned and operated since 1998, this model provides good-quality efficiency gear, cozy layers, preppy fundamentals, and swimwear for the entire household.
Why I highlighted this product: I actually like their T-shirts, particularly the short-sleeved classic tee with a whale pocket. It is available in a number of colours and is constituted of 100% soft-washed cotton for that lived-in, tremendous comfy feeling. Good if you wish to rock a tee from a model like Lacoste.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: Though actually good high quality, some really feel that it’s considerably overpriced.
Why this model is nice: With a historical past reaching again to the Eighties, even farther than Lacoste, US Polo Assn will get its sporty begin within the sport of polo (in reality, all of their merchandise are sanctioned by america Polo Affiliation, the governing physique for the game of polo since 1890). Very similar to Lacoste, this model offers you that prep college, waspy search for much less, providing pants, polos, tees, and even swimwear.
Why I highlighted this product: They’ve a number of nice polos for the prepsters, however I like this striped pique shirt due to the nice high quality of its cotton and the printed chest stripes which have a sporty really feel. It’s enticing, it’s straightforward to put on with khakis, shorts, or denims, and it even is available in pink.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: This model is extra reasonably priced than Lacoste, however I want that they have been clear in regards to the supplies they used.
Why this model is nice: I most likely don’t must let you know that Ralph Lauren is among the most iconic manufacturers on the planet. A real arbiter of American vogue and preppy stylish type, it’s a worldwide chief with over 50 years of distinction.
They provide a number of completely different traces, from designer ready-to-wear straight from the runway to the extra informal choices of the Polo line, which bears a excessive resemblance to Lacoste of their skill to rework sports activities garments into vogue traits.
Why I highlighted this product: I simply needed to showcase their US Open Ball Crew Polo Shirt due to its emphasis on sport. With a slim match and stylish colour blocking, it’s part of the ‘24 US Open Tennis Championship Collection, so it has that slightly exclusive feel.
It’s acquired all the correct preppy particulars, from an official match brand, a signature Massive Pony brand on the again, and huge ribbed cuffs for scrunching and styling. Made from recycled poly, it’s acquired an eco aptitude and is nice for sport due to stretch mesh and moisture-wicking properties.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: You really can’t go mistaken with the stylish, elegant Ralph Lauren, however the value level could also be too steep for some.
Why this model is nice: Ah, one other true heritage model. Based in 1914 in Chicago, Wilson is the producer of high-performance sports activities tools, attire, footwear, and equipment. (I at all times consider their tennis balls). Plus, they’ve maintained one of many longest-standing model partnerships in sports activities—with the NFL.
So despite the fact that sport involves thoughts earlier than vogue in relation to Wilson, the model really sits at that good intersection of pattern and performance, due to the foremost uptick in streetwear and athleisure.
Why I highlighted this product: Irrespective of how stylish or cool, Wilson by no means crafts a bit of clothes only for seems. The parkside half-zip pullover is simply as helpful for sport as it’s for vogue, due to anti-odor, quick-drying, and breathable know-how.
Each gentle and tender, it’s constituted of a combo of cotton, poly, and viscose, which helps it keep form retention. This sweatshirt is in it for the lengthy haul.
Flaws however not deal-breakers: They might not have the pattern energy of Lacoste or carry the identical high-end really feel, however they do make loads of trendy athleisure outfits and plenty of sports activities garments you may depend on.
Why this model is nice: Although considerably costly, Peter Millar is a really high-quality model that gives well-tailored garments for the prepster and Southern gentleman. The corporate started in 2001 with a single cashmere sweater—the last word image of the wasp. Since then, they’ve provided luxurious, magnificence, and superior craftsmanship of their ready-to-wear, efficiency sportswear, and resort attire. As a result of their garments will final you for years, I contemplate them an funding model.
Why I highlighted this product: When you want one thing to put on on the golf course, then contemplate the Shackleford Efficiency Hybrid Brief. They arrive in 5 colours for simple styling and boast a basic match and plenty of versatility. This comes right down to the four-way stretch mobility and water resistance, which helps you are taking this brief from the inexperienced to having a scotch on the membership to a soar within the pool (sure, they double as swim trunks).
Flaws however not deal-breakers: Though Lacoste maintains a youthful really feel, Peter Millar feels considerably extra mature and never as stylish.
Shopping for Concerns for Manufacturers Like Lacoste
Heritage
Not all manufacturers like Lacoste should be a heritage model with dozens of years of historical past, however it actually helps. Having the ability to hint again a model’s roots to its origins in sport offers us context, informs the model’s dedication to efficiency, an enormous side of athleisure corporations like Lacoste, and lets us know that the garments might be comfy and are worthy of damage.
A few of the manufacturers on this checklist are new, which is completely nice, however all of them place an emphasis on high-quality supplies, sustainability, and timeless preppy kinds you may depend on.
Efficiency
Though the style polo is one among Lacoste’s shining merchandise, what actually retains prospects coming again for extra is their efficiency gear. Even the garments which can be meant for vogue comprise components of enhanced wearability, whether or not or not it’s high-quality, breathable materials and even water and anti-microbial components. The entire manufacturers like Lacoste that I thought-about are exceptionally comfy and sturdy, combining type with performance.
Worth
Lacoste is on the low finish of luxurious, sitting comfortably at a center value level, although it carries an unique really feel. I attempted to deal with a variety of value factors, so fortunately, you may just about choose from any of the manufacturers like Lacoste on this checklist. Some are extra reasonably priced than others, with Ralph Lauren sitting on the prime—however not too out of attain.
How We Selected
Numerous Lacoste-like manufacturers declare to make trendy, preppy garments with efficiency and performance at their coronary heart, however typically, these claims simply don’t maintain up. So, wherever attainable, I selected manufacturers which can be extremely respected, carry some aspect of sport or efficiency of their model id, and pleasure themselves on high quality and performance.
I additionally sifted by way of a whole lot of buyer evaluations and combed by way of the most effective vogue boards, touchdown on my prime 10 by choosing manufacturers that individuals fee extremely and would possible purchase once more.
Worth: Does the model promise a number of clean-cut, preppy kinds, however the value is thru the roof? I take note of the worth a product brings and resolve if its value measures up.
Selection: If a model provides preppy kinds and efficiency put on, then it makes the checklist. I must see a combo of each vogue and performance to deem a model like Lacoste.
Model Status: How do folks really feel a few model over time? If it’s not beloved, with wonderful customer support and a optimistic picture in society’s consciousness, then it’s not making the lower.
Why Belief Us?
In-house author Rachel Cascella is actually obsessive about vogue. This is sensible, as she’s spent 16 years as a mannequin in New York within the vogue trade, working with prime designers, manufacturers, and inventive consultants.
She combines that information with a love of analysis to provide you well-informed articles on the newest traits, just like the greatest sq. watches you ought to be carrying and sneakers like Vans, simply in case you’re searching for one thing completely different. Belief Rachel to convey you the whole lot vogue, together with the most effective sporty-preppy manufacturers on the market.
Closing Verdict
Manufacturers like Lacoste ought to carry the identical preppy, basic waspy type with a sporty twist. My prime choose is FILA as a result of it’s additionally a heritage model steeped in sports activities custom, locations emphasis on tech in addition to type, and may be very on-trend.
FAQ
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Manufacturers like FILA, Polo Ralph Lauren, Winery Vines, Brooks Brothers, and Tommy Hilfiger compete with Lacoste.
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Whereas pricier than many excessive avenue manufacturers, Lacoste isn’t a luxurious model. Their items are expensive as a result of they’re made with high-quality supplies and include an iconic standing.
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