In an effort to support healthcare workers and volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lacoste has released an exclusive, limited-edition polo of which all proceeds are being donated.
The Polo Merci stays true to the brand’s heritage, following the classic L.12.12 design that established Lacoste’s global success in 1933. Crafted in cotton petit piqué, the unisex polo features a straight-cut fit and mother-of-pearl button collar. The brand’s signature crocodile logo is found in the centre of an embroidered red heart, a symbol of appreciation.
“Reinterpreting the iconic Lacoste polo shirt by wrapping it in a simple red heart seemed to us the best way to show our admiration for those committed to helping people during the pandemic,” said Louise Trotter, the brand’s creative director and designer of the L.12.12 Polo Merci.
Lacoste is demonstrating its support by donating 100 percent of sales (excluding tax) from the Polo Merci to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). As the largest humanitarian network in the world, the IFRC provides global relief and care to fight the challenges presented by the health crisis.
In addition to the Polo Merci, Lacoste has created a 100% cotton face mask. For each mask sold, £3 is donated to the Lacoste Fund, which supports solidarity and social actions.
Tennis player Novak Djokovic was joined by other renowned athletes and public figures in a video posted by the French brand, to express their gratitude for the volunteers. The video also pays tribute to Lacoste’s own factory employees, who have voluntarily produced more than 200,000 fabric face masks since March.
“The Polo Merci is in line with the brand’s continued commitment in this unprecedented health crisis. This solidarity action illustrates how fashion can, at its own level, act in solidarity to serve people,” said Thierry Guibert, CEO of Lacoste.
The L.12.12 Polo Merci retails for $130 USD and can be purchased online and at select Lacoste boutiques.
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