Pirated Lacoste Meets the Original (Distinguishging an original Lacoste shirt)

For people who are concerned of the brands they wear, it is a must to wear nothing but the original. Due to the comfort and "luxury" of wearing such items, some meticulous people never settle for mere imitations. Well lucky for this people for having the talent to distinguish imitations to original ones. But what about for the "masa" like us? Although not necessary, it's also good that we have keen senses too of identifying the original to the fake ones.

Take for example Lacoste shirts. Due to its increase in popularity around in 2002, it has opened an opportunity for garment makers (specially in Thailand) to produce a replica of the brand in lower prices. These garments are of very low standards and can be easily distinguished by Lacoste patronizers, but what about those who just want to experience "once-in-a-lifetime" luxury? How do they avoid themselves to this 'pirates.'?

Here are some advice collated from ebayers (claiming to be experts :))

First stop is the Croc Logo; the Croc logo of the original Lacoste always face away from the shirt's buttons and is positioned between the last button and the shirt's placket. Those on the fake ones are positioned high and around the the first button. Also the original Lacoste Crocs are very detailed putting much emphasis on its teeth and feet. It does not look rounded or mushed together. Details on its feet means you will really be able to see where it starts and where it ends, not just an outline.
Next are the buttons. Original Lacoste come with mother of pearl buttons, it is an extraordinary buttons s much unlike those you buy from your local fabric store. Thus, the buttons are never plastic. Add to that, the originals does NEVER say Lacoste or place the Croc on them.

Now the tags. Tags on authentic Lacoste shirts will never have sizes such as S, M, L, XL. It shall be in numbers like 4, 5, 6, 7, 32, 34, 36. The originals also have two tags; one with the Croc on and the size number the other say where it was made and designed. The side of the real Lacoste has care tag that says DEV ANLAY. All original Lacoste shirts for men have the Crocs sewn on via patch, while it is embroidered directly on for the women's.

Those are just some ways to identify original to the fake. You can also do the touching - if it is heavy and does not feel expensive, you know you got 'spoofed.'