Lacoste Sizing & Fit Guide
Lacoste is best known for the L.12.12 polo and the famous crocodile, but two questions come up more than any other: how does it fit, and what do those numbered sizes actually mean? This guide covers the fit, the numeric sizing system, and a full chest-measurement chart, from an official Lacoste stockist.
The short answer
Lacoste fits true to size. Order your usual size in the classic fit. Slim-fit styles sit closer to the body, so if you are between sizes or prefer a trimmer shape, size down. A Lacoste 5 is a Large.
The fit
Regular, with a little room. The classic-fit polo, including the iconic L.12.12, is cut true to size across the chest with a relaxed line through the body, and the petit pique cotton holds its shape wash after wash. Slim-fit styles are tapered through the waist and shorter in the sleeve. We have stocked Lacoste since 2013 and it is one of the most predictable fits we sell, so order your usual size and size down only if you want it sharper. Shop Lacoste · Fred Perry vs Lacoste
Size chart
Approximate to-fit chest measurements, cross-checked against Lacoste's own chart. Measure around the fullest part of your chest and match it to the row below. Every product page also carries that item's own size guide, so check it for the exact garment before you order.
| Size | Lacoste | Chest (in) | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 3 | 35–37" | 90–93 cm |
| M | 4 | 38–40" | 97–101 cm |
| L | 5 | 41–43" | 105–109 cm |
| XL | 6 | 44–46" | 113–117 cm |
| 2XL | 7 | 48–49" | 121–125 cm |
| 3XL | 8 | 51" | 129 cm |
| 4XL | 9 | 53" | 134 cm |
Lacoste numbers
A 5 is a Large. Lacoste labels most garments numerically rather than S to XL, and it has done since the original polo: 3 is a Small, 4 a Medium, 5 a Large, 6 an XL, 7 a 2XL, 8 a 3XL and 9 a 4XL. If the label says 5, you are holding a Large. Shop all Lacoste
How to measure
Around the fullest part of your chest. Wrap a tape measure under the arms and across the shoulder blades, keeping it level and snug rather than tight, then match the result to the chart above. If you would rather measure a shirt you already own and like, lay it flat and measure armpit to armpit, then double it, which removes any guesswork about how much room you prefer.
Common questions
Do Lacoste polos run small?
What size is a Lacoste 5?
What is the difference between classic fit and slim fit?
Is the L.12.12 the same as the classic polo?
How do I know which size to order if I am between two?
Still unsure
Email the team and we will help you pick. We are an official Lacoste stockist and we handle this fit every day, so if you tell us your chest measurement and the style you are after we will tell you the size to order. If the size is not right, exchanges are free, and UK returns are £3.00 within 14 days with a pre-paid Royal Mail label. Contact us · The best designer polo shirts
Written by the Spiral Seven buying team · Updated 6 September 2026 · Official Lacoste stockist since 2013
