Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste are two of the most recognized names in polo shirts—and casual luxury in general. But when it comes to prestige, pricing, and premium feel, which one truly stands out?
While both brands hold strong in their own right, Ralph Lauren is typically considered more high-end overall—especially with its Purple Label line. Lacoste, on the other hand, owns the sport-luxury niche with French finesse.
I’ve worked with both brands when helping clients build apparel lines. Their stories, price tags, and cultural reach are different—but equally powerful in shaping global fashion. Let’s compare them point by point.
Brand History and Heritage
Understanding where each brand comes from helps us understand what they represent today.
Ralph Lauren embodies American aspirational living, while Lacoste is rooted in European sport elegance.
Polo & Equestrian Style
Ralph Lauren
- Founded in 1967 in New York City by designer Ralph Lauren
- Built on the image of the American Dream, Ivy League prep, and classic elegance
- Expanded into a full lifestyle brand—home goods, fragrances, eyewear, and more
Lacoste
- Founded in 1933 by French tennis legend René Lacoste
- Invented the polo shirt and redefined functional elegance in sportwear
- Carries a distinct identity of French minimalism and athletic grace
Price Comparison: Which Brand Commands a Higher Price?
Retail prices can be revealing, but it’s the top-tier collections that truly show the brand hierarchy.
Ralph Lauren generally sits higher in price, especially when you factor in its luxury collections.
General Retail Pricing
| Item Type | Polo Ralph Lauren | Lacoste |
|---|---|---|
| Polo Shirt | $89–$125 | $85–$110 |
| Dress Shirt | $110–$180 | $95–$160 |
| Outerwear | $200–$700 | $180–$500 |
Ralph Lauren tends to price higher across categories, but the gap is most noticeable in formalwear and outerwear.
Premium Lines Comparison
| Premium Collection | Starting Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ralph Lauren Purple Label1 | $400–$4,000+ | Ultra-luxury suits, cashmere knits, leather goods |
| Lacoste L.12.12 Premium | $120–$180 | Refined polos with enhanced fabrics |
Purple Label operates in the luxury designer market, while Lacoste stays within the premium casualwear tier.
Product Quality and Materials
Fabric selection and construction tell the story behind the price tag.
Ralph Lauren invests more in tailoring and specialty materials for its upscale collections, while Lacoste leads in refined basics.
Fabric Choices
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Piqué cotton, mercerized cotton, Italian wool, and cashmere
- Lacoste: Signature petit piqué, stretch blends, organic cotton lines
- Ralph Lauren polos often feel denser and more structured, while Lacoste emphasizes breathability and lightness
Manufacturing and Craftsmanship
| Brand | Key Production Origins | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ralph Lauren | USA, Italy, Portugal, China | Purple Label and RRL made in Europe/USA |
| Lacoste | France, Tunisia, Peru, Vietnam | Heritage polos still made in France |
Ralph Lauren’s luxury items are often hand-finished or tailored, whereas Lacoste focuses on clean construction with modern efficiency.
Brand Image and Target Audience
Both brands have carved out strong visual identities—but they appeal to slightly different fashion mindsets.
Ralph Lauren speaks to classic lifestyle dreams. Lacoste balances sport heritage with French flair.
Polo Ralph Lauren
- Represents upper-class leisure, equestrian aesthetics, and yacht culture
- Serves preppy, streetwear, and formalwear markets
- Attracts a wide demographic—from teens to professionals
Lacoste
- Embodies sport-chic minimalism
- Best known for its tennis culture and country club influence
- Appeals to urban professionals and lovers of clean European style
Global Presence and Cultural Impact
You’ve seen both logos everywhere—from red carpets to sports arenas. But their cultural weight shows up differently.
Ralph Lauren owns the aspirational American story. Lacoste has broader relevance in activewear and European style circles.
Ralph Lauren’s Global Luxury Image
- Worn by Hollywood actors, presidents, and fashion elites
- Major player at events like the Met Gala and U.S. Open
- Known for styling Olympics teams, boosting global exposure
Lacoste’s Cultural Footprint
- Iconic crocodile logo deeply tied to tennis and lifestyle sports
- Strong presence in Europe, South America, and Asia
- Collaborates with artists, athletes, and even luxury houses like Supreme and A.P.C.
Final Verdict: Which Brand Is More High-End?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there are clear distinctions.
If you’re comparing top-tier offerings, Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label places the brand in true luxury fashion. Lacoste shines in athletic elegance, but generally stays in the premium—not luxury—space.
It Depends on the Product Line and Consumer Preference
| Criteria | Winner |
|---|---|
| Luxury Tailoring | Ralph Lauren (Purple Label) |
| Polo Shirt Innovation | Lacoste (Heritage Line) |
| Lifestyle Branding | Ralph Lauren |
| Sportwear Authenticity | Lacoste |
Conclusion
Both Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste bring sophistication and heritage to your wardrobe. Your choice depends on what you value more—luxury lifestyle tailoring or French sport-luxury elegance2. Either way, you’re dressing with legacy.
