NEW YORK, Sep 14, 2004/ FW/ --- In a beautiful almost historic building downtown, the front row of Lacoste’s catwalk show was filled by the who’s who of New York’s social register, a sign that the alligator has attracted more than a fair share of the fashion flock since its revival a few seasons ago.

The synergy between Lacoste and Christophe Lemaire is a definite triumph, as the French designer continues to preserve the soul of the brand while making it modern and upbeat.

It’s sportswear Parisian style, as Lemaire sent above-the-knee dresses, culottes and hip hugging low-rise skirts with the signature Lacoste stripes on shirts plus the iconic alligator.

Both menswear and womenswear featured the functional cargo pants, a favorite among the “mobile” group who has to have their cell phones and PDAs where they go.

The accessory of choice is the hat, as the designer proposed kangols and berets to the fashion flock when spring rolls around.

The best statement by the designer is making the brand fun, relaxed and leisurely. “It’s dope,” as the way the teen-agers today will describe it simply because you cannot get enough of it.

Lacoste

Lacoste

Lacoste