Lacoste Unveils “The Locker Room” Collection at Lycée Carnot
On a crisp autumn day, the iconic French fashion brand Lacoste transformed the Lycée Carnot into a vibrant showcase for its Spring-Summer 2026 collection, aptly named “The Locker Room.” The event, held on October 6, 2025, attracted a star-studded audience, including tennis legend Venus Williams and fashion luminaries like Anna Wintour and Adrien Brody. This collection marks a significant evolution in Lacoste’s design philosophy, emphasizing a blend of sportswear and high fashion.
A New Direction in Design
Under the creative direction of Pelagia Kolotouros, who has previously worked with renowned brands such as Calvin Klein and Yeezy, this collection represents her fourth endeavor with Lacoste. Kolotouros has been instrumental in steering the brand towards a more contemporary aesthetic, and “The Locker Room” is no exception. The collection features a greater emphasis on sportswear compared to previous lines, reflecting a broader trend in fashion where athletic wear is increasingly embraced in everyday wardrobes.
The choice of venue-a gymnasium reminiscent of a market hall-was a clever nod to the collection’s theme. The setting was adorned with white tiles and faux grass, creating an atmosphere that evoked the freshness of post-exercise rejuvenation. Guests were seated on curved benches draped with large white-and-green towels, further immersing them in the concept of a locker room.
A Colorful Palette and Diverse Silhouettes
As the show commenced, the audience was treated to a visual feast of colors and silhouettes. The collection began with vibrant oranges, reminiscent of tennis courts, and transitioned through a spectrum of blues, greens, taupes, creams, and whites. This color journey not only pays homage to Lacoste’s rich heritage but also showcases the brand’s ability to innovate while staying true to its roots.
The silhouettes varied from abbreviated to oversized, offering a diverse range of options for fashion enthusiasts. Long coats paired with loose-cut suits, red leather tops with generous collars, and wet-look nylon tracksuits all contributed to the collection’s sporty yet chic vibe. The layering of garments, such as shorts worn under joggers, created a deliberate mismatch that emphasized comfort-a key element in modern fashion.
Accessories Take Center Stage
In “The Locker Room,” accessories played a pivotal role. Kolotouros introduced chunky, coiled-rope bracelets and sport-inspired lace-up flats, which added a playful touch to the outfits. The return of the Lenglen bag, named after the legendary tennis player Suzanne Lenglen, was particularly noteworthy. Some bags were half white and half black, emblazoned with the phrase “For tennis use only,” merging functionality with style.
The collection also featured slim racquet cases and deeper bags worn under the arm, reinforcing the athletic theme. This focus on accessories aligns with a broader trend in fashion where the right accessory can elevate an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.
A Tribute to Heritage
Lacoste’s rich history was woven throughout the collection. Certain pieces bore the date “1927,” marking the year when the iconic crocodile logo was created by designer Robert George. This homage to the brand’s origins serves as a reminder of Lacoste’s enduring legacy in the fashion world, particularly in the realm of sportswear.
A Show to Remember
The grand finale of the show was a sensory experience, filled with sounds reminiscent of a training session-breath, percussion, and the squeaks of shoes on the floor. As the applause erupted from the audience, Kolotouros joined the models on the runway, embodying the spirit of the collection. The presence of high-profile attendees, including actors and musicians, underscored the cultural significance of the event.
Conclusion
Lacoste’s “The Locker Room” collection is more than just a showcase of fashion; it is a celebration of athleticism, comfort, and heritage. Pelagia Kolotouros has successfully redefined the brand’s identity, merging sportswear with high fashion in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences. As the lines between athletic and everyday wear continue to blur, Lacoste stands at the forefront of this evolution, proving that style and functionality can coexist beautifully. The collection not only honors the brand’s storied past but also paves the way for its future in the ever-changing landscape of fashion.
