Original Penguin vs. Lacoste: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Original Penguin offers a playful, vintage-inspired take on preppy fashion at a budget-friendly price point, while Lacoste focuses on premium, timeless pieces rooted in its sporty, elegant heritage. The primary difference is in their aesthetic and cost: Original Penguin is known for louder, retro patterns and is more affordable, whereas Lacoste is defined by classic, clean designs and high-quality materials that command a higher price.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right brand for your style and budget.

Original Penguin: The Playful, Vintage-Inspired Essential

Original Penguin is an American lifestyle brand that channels a cool, 1950s aesthetic for the modern wardrobe. Known for its preppy and slightly quirky designs, the brand appeals to a younger, fashion-conscious crowd (18-35) looking for standout casual wear. It strikes a balance between timeless silhouettes and fun, expressive details without a serious price tag.

• Product mix: A full range of men's and women's apparel with a focus on polos, printed button-down shirts, and easy-to-wear outerwear and accessories. Known for bold stripes, conversational prints, and retro color palettes.
• Price point: Accessible and mid-range, making it easy to build a stylish wardrobe without a huge investment. Polos typically cost around $50-$70, with casual shirts running $60-$90 and jackets from $80-$150.
• Style & Aesthetic: Playful and unapologetically retro. It is a more casual and whimsical interpretation of the preppy look, perfect for weekends, casual outings, and expressing personal style.
• Fit & Sizing: Generally true to size, but the fit can be more relaxed or slightly slim depending on the item. The focus is on comfortable, everyday wear rather than a precise, tailored silhouette.

Original Penguin is ideal for those who appreciate retro charm and want affordable, stylish clothing for everyday casual wear.

Shop Original Penguin: originalpenguin.com

Lacoste: The Icon of Sporty Elegance

Lacoste is a legendary French brand built on a foundation of tennis heritage and sophisticated style. Since 1933, its crocodile logo has been a symbol of understated luxury and sporty elegance. Lacoste appeals to a more mature audience (25-45) that values quality, prestige, and timeless designs that work for both casual and semi-formal settings.

• Product mix: Famous for its iconic polo shirts, the brand also offers a wide array of high-quality apparel, footwear, accessories, and fragrances. Their collections are known for clean lines and classic colors.
• Price point: Positions itself as a premium brand. An iconic Lacoste polo will set you back $90-$150, with other apparel often priced between $100-$300+, reflecting its status as an investment piece.
• Quality & Materials: Renowned for exceptional quality, especially its signature cotton piqué fabric used in polos. The construction is durable, with attention to detail that ensures garments last for years.
• Style & Aesthetic: Clean, classic, and versatile. The vibe is a perfect blend of sport and sophistication, creating a refined and timeless preppy look that never goes out of fashion.
• Fit & Sizing: Sizing is consistent and true to size, offering a tailored, athletic fit that is both sleek and comfortable.

Lacoste delivers enduring, high-quality pieces for individuals willing to invest in brand heritage and classic, sophisticated style.

Shop Lacoste: lacoste.com

Original Penguin vs. Lacoste Comparison

Price Comparison

There is a clear difference in cost between the two brands. Original Penguin is significantly more accessible, with polos priced between $50-$70. The brand also runs frequent sales and promotions, making it a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers.

Lacoste operates in the premium category, with its signature polos starting at $90 and often exceeding $150. Their products are positioned as investment pieces due to their quality and timeless appeal. Heavy discounts are rare, reflecting the brand’s luxury status.

Quality & Materials

Lacoste is the clear winner when it comes to quality and craftsmanship. Its signature cotton piqué is soft, durable, and holds its shape and color exceptionally well over many wears and washes. The meticulous stitching and reinforced construction make each piece a long-lasting staple.

Original Penguin offers good quality for its price point. It uses comfortable cottons and fabrics suitable for everyday wear, but they don't have the same luxurious feel or robust construction as Lacoste's offerings. They are designed for rotating styles rather than for lifelong use.

Style & Aesthetic

The two brands target different facets of the preppy aesthetic. Original Penguin embraces a playful, retro look with bold patterns, quirky details, and a distinct vintage vibe. It's more expressive and trend-aware, perfect for making a casual statement.

Lacoste embodies classic, understated sporting elegance. Its designs are clean, versatile, and refined. A Lacoste polo is a wardrobe icon because of its ability to transition from a casual tennis match to a smart-casual dinner without looking out of place. It's about effortless and timeless sophistication.

Fit & Sizing

Lacoste is known for its consistent and reliable fit. Most items are "true to size" with a classic, athletic cut that is tailored without being restrictive. It is designed to offer a clean silhouette that remains sharp over time.

Original Penguin’s sizing is also generally true to size, but its fit is often more casual and can vary slightly. Depending on the style, some pieces might be intentionally relaxed or slim. It prioritizes comfort and a laid-back feel over a precisely tailored look.

Shopping Experience

Lacoste creates a premium shopping experience, whether in its pristine boutiques or on its polished website. The focus is on an elevated customer journey, with attentive service and detailed product guidance. Shopping with Lacoste feels like a luxury purchase.

The Original Penguin shopping experience is more accessible and straightforward. It’s available in numerous department stores and has a user-friendly website with frequent sales, appealing to the practical, budget-savvy shopper.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both brands are making efforts toward sustainability, but Lacoste has a more developed and transparent program. It focuses on responsible cotton sourcing, eco-friendly manufacturing, and has clear goals to reduce its environmental footprint. These initiatives are a key part of its brand identity.

Original Penguin is incorporating more sustainable materials like organic cotton, but its efforts are less extensive compared to Lacoste. For eco-conscious shoppers, Lacoste holds a distinct advantage.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your personal style, budget, and what you prioritize in the clothing you buy.

Choose Original Penguin if:

• You're on a budget but still want stylish, preppy clothing.
• You love retro and vintage-inspired designs with bold patterns and playful details.
• You are building a wardrobe for casual, weekend, and everyday wear.
• You enjoy hunting for deals and taking advantage of frequent sales.

Choose Lacoste if:

• You prefer a classic, timeless, and understated aesthetic.
• You are willing to invest in high-quality materials and durable construction that will last for years.
• You want a consistent, tailored fit that always looks sharp and refined.
• Brand heritage, prestige, and a commitment to sustainability are important to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Original Penguin or Lacoste cheaper?

Original Penguin is significantly cheaper. Its polos generally cost between $50-$70, while Lacoste polos start at $90 and go up to $150 or more.

Which brand has better quality?

Lacoste is known for its superior quality. The brand uses premium fabrics like its signature cotton piqué and employs meticulous craftsmanship for enhanced durability and a more luxurious feel.

How does the sizing compare between Original Penguin and Lacoste?

Lacoste's sizing is highly consistent and true to size, offering a tailored athletic fit. Original Penguin's sizing is also generally true to size but can be more variable, with styles running slim or relaxed depending on the design.

Are Original Penguin and Lacoste considered preppy?

Yes, both brands fall under the preppy umbrella, but they interpret it differently. Original Penguin offers a playful, vintage version, while Lacoste represents a classic, sporty elegance.

Which brand is better for business casual?

Lacoste is generally a better fit for business casual settings. Its clean lines, solid colors, and understated logo lend a more professional and refined look than Original Penguin's often playful and patterned designs.

Do both brands have sales?

Original Penguin has frequent sales and promotions online and in stores. Lacoste sales are less common and typically not as substantial, as the brand positions itself as a premium label.

Is Lacoste considered a luxury brand?

Yes, Lacoste is considered a premium or accessible luxury brand. It is prized for its heritage, quality, and timeless style rather than fleeting trends.

What are the logos of each brand?

Original Penguin's logo is a whimsical illustration of a penguin named Pete. Lacoste's logo is the world-famous crocodile, a direct reference to founder Rene Lacoste's nickname, "The Alligator," on the tennis court.