Lacoste has earned legions of loyal fans over the past 90 years as one of the most iconic brands in preppy, luxury clothing. However, many other competitors now offer similar styles that match Lacoste’s quality and eye toward high-end casual fashion.
I’ve compiled this top 14 brands like Lacoste to expand your preppy apparel and accessories options. Discover new labels to love while getting the polished crocodile look Lacoste does so well.
Top 14 Alternatives to Lacoste for Stylish Luxury Clothing
1. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren pioneered classic American prep long before Lacoste landed stateside. The brand is known for its signature polo shirts, luxe knits and tailored separates that channel East Coast country club vibes.
It offers far more categories than just clothing too. Home goods, childrenswear, eyewear, watches and more extend the preppy style aesthetic to every area of life.
Key Perks:
- Iconic, versatile American preppy aesthetic
- Wide range of categories beyond apparel
- Luxurious materials and quality construction
2. Brooks Brothers
Brooks Brothers, a reputable clothing brand, has been in existence since 1818. Their famous quality and ageless designs confirm their primary American style.
Their clothing and accessories are made using the best materials, with every detail precisely seen too. This level of detail has made them a top choice for famous people and fashion lovers.
They offer everything from the perfected dress shirts to well-fitted suits, representing high-class and elegance. Beyond this, it is dedicated to eco-friendly and fair practices, setting them apart in the fashion world.
Key Advantages:
- 200+ years perfecting polished American style
- Sophisticated basics elevated through smart design
- Extensive range including suiting and accessories
3. Vineyard Vines
Preppy lifestyle brand Vineyard Vines channels the same coastal country club vibe as Lacoste. But the label infuses it with quirky prints, patterns and color combinations for a more playful feel.
This brand like goes beyond Lacoste’s focus on polos and knits to offer a full lifestyle lineup. That includes clothing for women, kids and babies plus home goods, bags, pet gear and more.
Why Shop Here:
- Whimsical prints put a playful spin on country club style
- Entire catalogs for women, kids, babies, pets and home
- Coastal preppy aesthetic similar to Lacoste
4. Dolce & Gabbana
In the world of fancy apparel lineups, Dolce & Gabbana makes a real impact. They’re famous for their bold and suggestive styles. This unique brand is a big hit among style followers globally.
Their spectacular shops mirror the brand’s daring and glitzy persona, giving a shopping trip you won’t forget. Each shop has its own character, making every visit an exciting journey.
With their lavish Italian-themed interiors to their plush lineup of clothes and accessories, this is the top-tier symbol of luxury in fashion.
Why Shop Here:
- Luxurious fabrics and construction
- Statement pieces and head-turning designs
- Products made in Italy
5. Converse
In terms of fashion that’s out of the ordinary, Converse is certainly a name to remember. Famous for the classic Chuck Taylor All-Star shoes, it’s product line now also includes a variety of clothes and accessories. They all represent an easygoing style.
Their items attract both the young and those young at heart, making them a common pick for anyone.
Despite their vast appeal, it hasn’t forgotten its roots in challenging limits and norm. This is why those wanting something distinct and bold keep selecting them.
This alternative company offers a more affordable option compared to premium sneaker brands.
What Makes Them Popular:
- Iconic American brand since 1908
- Inexpensive compared to competitors
- Collaborations with designers and musicians
6. Hugo Boss
Hugo Boss sells luxury business and casual wear for men and women. From sharp suits to leather jackets, their clothes make bold style statements. While expensive, it frequently offers sales on various items.
The brand’s focus on minor details and dedication to fitting perfection makes it a preferred option for those eyeballing lavish fashion that will defy time.
Key Perks:
- High-fashion men’s suits
- Trend-driven women’s clothing
- Lifestyle brand with fragrances and accessories
7. Burberry
Burberry is a renowned British luxury fashion brand that has been delivering high-quality, timeless pieces for over 150 years. The brand is famous for its iconic trench coats, classic designs, and signature plaid pattern.
It has a loyal customer base and continues to attract new fans with its on-trend yet classic styles. The brand’s attention to detail, commitment to quality, and innovative designs make it a top choice for those seeking luxury fashion that will stand the test of time.
From sophisticated business suits to chic casual wear, it has something for everyone looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their wardrobe.
Why People Choose Them:
- Timeless trench coats and plaid items
- Bags, wallets, shoes and more with the check print
- Known for durability and craftsmanship
8. Tory Burch
Tory Burch makes womenswear focused on casual but luxurious American sportswear style. Signature designs often feature vibrant colors and patterns like polka dots. The handbags and shoes are very popular, combining affordability and quality.
The company’s exceptional skill, creative styles, and eye for tiny details help make sure their shoes are usable and trendy.
Key Advantages:
- Relatively affordable designer brand
- Chic sportswear aesthetic
- Fun patterns and color combinations
9. Gucci
Gucci, a well-respected Italian brand, is recognized for its luxury designs marked by standout logos and fine details. Their broad range of high-end merchandise includes clothes, jewels, purses, and accessories.
This fashion brand stands out because it shines in detail, quality work, and fresh styles. It tells a tale of class and charm. Those who love fashion adore this label. They want their outfits and extras to speak volumes. Gucci’s daring and notable patterns are easy to spot. This makes it one of the most loved and known luxury labels worldwide.
Why People Shop Here:
- Prestigious international luxury brand
- Unique details like mosaics, studs, embroidery
- Oft-imitated iconic styles
10. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton epitomizes luxury with their leather goods and trunks adorned with the LV logo. Product prices start in the thousands. While very expensive, items are expertly crafted and remain fashionable for decades.
What sets it apart? Its famous monogram print and top-notch quality. If you’re fashion-savvy, It is a must. Its ready-to-wear collection? Classic and timeless. Its leather goods collection? Bags, backpacks, and wallets for everyone.
Key Perks:
- The pinnacle of luxury branding
- Handmade with fine materials
- Timeless silhouettes and monogram logo
11. Tommy Hilfiger
Tommy Hilfiger is an American brand selling preppy, sporty clothing with a cool edge. They offer modern twists on classics like polos, button-downs, chinos, and more. This similar brand also provides designer style for less compared to runway names.
Their clothes are well-made and forever stylish attracting many folks. They make everything, formal suits to casual sports gear, reflecting a sophisticated charm.
If you’re out to spruce up your clothes, it is a great choice with their timeless fashion that stays trendy.
Why Shop Here:
- Colorful American sportswear
- Trendy twists on preppy aesthetic
- Often discounted below MSRP
12. Guess
Guess is a popular upscale fashion brand with a history dating back to 1981. It’s all about trendy, stylish attire, accessories, and scents at an approachable luxury price point. Fans appreciate them for their cool designs that blend timeless class with a modern twist.
It is a top choice for trend-setting young adults. Its product range is vast; think denim jeans, jackets, dresses, and shoes, plus watches, glasses, and perfumes.
People use their products when they want to stand out and attract attention – it’s all about adding a dash of elegance and posh to your attire.
Key Advantages:
- Denim experts since 1981
- Edgy styles for the young and adventurous
- Frequently seen on celebrities
13. Steve Madden
Looking for shoes? Check out Steve Madden. The brand makes fashionable women’s footwear like boots, heels, flats, and sandals. Known for following trends, this similar competitor brings runway looks to the masses for less.
What Makes Them Popular:
- Mass market pricing
- Constant new styles
- Collaborations with influencers
14. Kate Spade
Kate Spade New York is a high-end luxury brand that offers playful and sophisticated designs in its handbags, knitwear, jackets, dresses, and accessories.
The brand is well-known for its graphic prints, playful colors, and sophisticated preppy style that exudes sophistication and charm.
This brand stands out from its competitors by fusing modern aesthetics with luxury at a more attainable price.
The brand’s unique and whimsical style has gained it a loyal following of customers, making it a popular pick for those in pursuit of chic and playful fashion.
Whether you are looking for elegant bags or fashionable dresses, it has a wide range of products that cater to your every need.
Why People Choose Them:
- Understated designs with clever details
- Surprisingly well-priced items
- Small leather goods as affordable luxury
Match Lacoste’s Stylish Prep or Find Your Own Vibe
Lacoste built an iconic brand around preppy polos and a cool crocodile logo. When exploring similar luxury retailers, prioritize your needs – do you want designer fashion, businesswear staples, edgy street style or accessories? Prefer domestically made quality or international prestige?
With so many stores like Lacoste carrying premium clothing, be sure to reference brand comparisons and reviews. Carefully evaluate product quality, brand values, price differences, and shopping benefits before purchasing higher-priced items.
Finding labels similar to Lacoste that align budget with preferences takes research – but opens access to build a dream designer wardrobe over time.
FAQs On Lacoste Competitors
What is Lacoste best known for?
Lacoste popularized the polo shirt and is recognizable by the green crocodile logo. Most famous are their knit pique polos.
Where are Lacoste products made?
Many Lacoste items are sourced from factories in China, Romania, Peru, Turkey and other countries able to efficiently mass produce at scale.
Why is there a crocodile on Lacoste clothes?
Company founder Rene Lacoste was nicknamed “the Crocodile” as a tennis player for his aggressive playing style. The logo references his nickname.
How can you tell if a Lacoste product is real or fake?
Authentic Lacoste will have clean stitching, accurate logo placement/sizing, and high-quality materials. Fakes often have imperfect logos, cheaper fabrics and poor construction.
Does Lacoste ever offer discounts or go on sale?
Lacoste is a premium brand that rarely discounts prices. However, retailers like Nordstrom or Saks Fifth Avenue may put certain Lacoste items on sale at certain times of the year.
What makes Lacoste polo shirts so expensive?
Attention to detail with the knitting, special fabrics (usually pique cotton), tailored fit, crocodile appliques and durable construction justify the $90+ prices for a typical logo polo.
Where to buy Lacoste for cheaper prices?
Check Nordstrom Rack, Saks Off Fifth or similar outlets for the best discounts. Also browseConsignment shops focused on luxury brands may offer good secondhand finds.
How can you tell if a vintage Lacoste item is real?
Study trademark logos used in specific eras. Older items also had a wider crocodile, more subdued colors, different materials (linen), and “Made in France” tags.
Does Lacoste make more than just polos?
Yes, product offerings include shirts, sweaters, jackets, shoes, hats, bags, fragrance, belts, socks, watches, wallets and sunglasses for men, women and children.
Why is Lacoste considered a luxury or premium brand?
The Lacoste brand carries prestige from its tennis heritage and iconic crocodile logo. Premium materials and construction allow the retail prices to reach luxury brand levels.
