You own something from Lacoste, right? Who doesn’t! They’re a brand that has carved out a unique spot in the world of sports fashion, and everyone loves it.
From sneakers to sunglasses, they’ve made a name for themselves with their chic French simplicity. So it makes sense that their new eyewear collection draws on the brand’s heritage (see if you can spot that famous crocodile logo).
Let’s get into the new past, present, and future of eyewear Lacoste.
What’s the Brand’s Backstory?
Lacoste gives off a contemporary vibe, so you might be surprised to learn it was actually created in 1933! As far as origin stories go, this is a pretty good one.
Tennis player René Lacoste founded the brand, and since he was nicknamed “The Crocodile,” you can imagine where the logo came from. He was tenacious on the court, winning seven Grand Slam singles titles (for non-tennis fans, this means he was a legend).
The brand started out by making tennis shirts that René wore, then moved on to sailing shirts. So, from the get-go, they were known for their gentlemanly style.
The real success came when they started selling in the U.S. and became associated with luxury men’s sportswear. In the ‘80s, anyone who loved the ‘preppy look’ wore Lacoste, and the brand branched out into perfume, eyewear, shoes, and more.
Today, they sell millions of products each year and are still worn by major sports stars, including Andy Roddick and arguably the best tennis player of all time, Novak Djokovic.
The Latest Eyewear Lacoste Collection Is All About Heritage
Since Lacoste has been around for nearly a century, it’s no surprise they want to celebrate their heritage. The new eyewear collection features three icons: the classic crocodile, a tennis ball, and a tennis racket.
The first dampener tennis ball machines were patented by René in the ‘60s (it’s a machine that reduces vibrations), so the tennis ball is a huge icon for the brand. The racket is a reminder of the brand’s tennis history, mixed with its high-end design ethos.
For the runway, the creative director, Pelagia Kolotouros, created fashion-forward sunglasses. But since then, the brand has launched more commercial versions. These sunglasses are perfect for customers who want to wear their shades with any outfit.
The L6071S sunglasses feature the same contemporary acetate frames seen on the runway, but with a subtle, wearable rectangular shape. The temples boast the classic Lacoste icons, including the crocodile, tennis ball, and racket.
They are unisex and perfect for men and women who enjoy a sporty aesthetic. They’re offered in a range of different colors, including Havana, black, yellow, and gray.
The collection also includes eyeglasses such as the L4003, which feature a mix of acetate and metal detailing, finished with the crocodile logo.
Top Styles of Lacoste Sunglasses
You can’t really go wrong with a pair of Lacoste sunglasses, especially if you enjoy that effortlessly sporty look (like you just came from playing a round of tennis).
The eyewear is created by the global eyewear manufacturer Marchon, which has the exclusive license.
Styles for Men
Lacoste is primarily a men’s-focused brand, although it has expanded their range to include more women’s and unisex styles.
The men’s sunglasses are mostly understated, casual, and collectible. There’s a variety of shapes from circular to rectangular, but many of the classic eyewear Lacoste models are square sunglasses.
They have that casual energy of sunglasses that don’t take themselves too seriously. Perfect for wearing to meet friends, on vacation, or while running to work.
Forget the flashy logos and futuristic designs. Lacoste men’s sunglasses are made to be worn and enjoyed as part of a busy, active lifestyle.
For the classic gentleman:
These square-framed Lacoste sunglasses feature a suave combination of brown frames and gray lenses. They give off that dapper energy, which pairs well with your Lacoste polo shirt.
The cool active pair:
If you live a busy life, running from the office to the gym between meeting friends, then you’re probably looking for a cool, easy-to-coordinate pair of sunglasses. These Lacoste Havana Gray shades have that sporty edge with the crocodile logo and stripes.
Styles for Women
Lacoste doesn’t have as many women’s sunglasses styles. But they do have a few stylish pairs available, including shades that are a great mix of glamorous and wearable. There are also sporty pairs for women with an active lifestyle.
The glamorous pair:
These black-framed sunglasses are perfect for looking a little glamorous thanks to the gold touch on the arms. They’re classically ‘70s with the slightly rounded cat-eye frames.
The sporty pair:
For ladies who love the effortlessly sporty look, these metal-framed Lacoste shades will do the trick. They’re understated and look great year-round.
Popular Lacoste Eyeglasses
Lacoste eyeglasses, like their sunglasses, pair perfectly with just about anything. There’s a style for everyone.
Styles for Men
The sporty pair:
These black Lacoste glasses feature a sleek rectangular frame. They’re perfect for pairing with everything from athleisure outfits to work suits.
The retro pair:
These aviator glasses feature gold and tortoiseshell frames, giving off that retro feel. They look like something René Lacoste himself would wear off court.
Women’s Styles
The preppy pair:
These eyeglasses by Lacoste feature their signature acetate frames, giving them a perfectly preppy look. They’re perfect for fall/winter with that warm orange hue.
The timeless pair:
For those who love keeping it classy, these gray glasses capture the timeless French style of Lacoste. They’re perfect for work and play.
TL;DR
Lacoste is a brand that has stood the test of time since being founded in 1933 by René Lacoste. The brand was the original athleisure pioneer. Now, eyewear Lacoste includes some of the most affordable, sporty glasses out there.
- René Lacoste was a successful Grand Slam-winning tennis player who decided to start a sports brand. Even the famous crocodile logo comes from his nickname.
- They first made polo shirts before branching out into perfume and accessories.
- Today, Lacoste’s eyewear still has a sporty style, with a focus on men’s styles. But the new collection also includes unisex styles featuring stylish, colored transparent acetate frames.
- There are lots of styles to choose from, whether you like preppy, smart, or sporty eyewear.
- There’s a good selection of classic women’s styles, too.
