Lacoste scores big with Taylor Zakhar Perez as their new underwear ambassador

It seems Lacoste has just entered their main character era. With the announcement of Taylor Zakhar Perez as their latest underwear ambassador, the iconic brand is proving that their crocodile logo isn’t the only thing with bite. The 33-year-old actor, known for his irresistible charisma and standout role in “Red, White & Royal Blue,” is stepping into a whole new light—and we’re here for every sultry, Parisian-shadowed moment of it.

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A star in Lacoste’s court

If you haven’t been paying attention to Taylor Zakhar Perez, where have you been? Born in Chicago and raised in Indiana, Perez didn’t just wake up one day with his name in lights. Before captivating audiences on screen, he was a high-level swimmer—a fact that perhaps explains why he looks so effortlessly at home in Lacoste’s new campaign (Spoiler alert: swim trunks weren’t necessary for this shoot, but we’re not complaining.).

Taylor’s journey from small-town Indiana to the herringbone parquet floors of a Parisian apartment is one for the books. He’s not just a pretty face, though. Perez studied Spanish and cultural studies with a focus on television and film, carving out a path that’s as multifaceted as his career. And let’s not forget his role as Alex Claremont-Diaz in “Red, White & Royal Blue,” a film that earned Emmy nods and a GLAAD Award nomination, bringing LGBTQIA+ representation to the forefront.

Paris, but make it intimate

Now, let’s talk about the campaign. Picture this: the 18th arrondissement of Paris, parquet floors gleaming under soft natural light, and Taylor Zakhar Perez serving looks that could rival even the city’s most picturesque landmarks. Lacoste called in Belgian photographer Quentin de Briey, known for his raw and authentic approach, to shoot the campaign. The result? A series of images and videos that feel like stolen moments—intimate, textured, and totally swoon-worthy.

Styled by the ever-iconic Jason Bolden, Perez’s understated confidence shines through in every shot. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, the video content—produced by cultural platform Air Afrique—adds a layer of cinematic charm that has us ready to pack our bags for Paris.

Lacoste’s glow-up

For a brand that’s been around for nearly a century, Lacoste is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, this partnership with Perez signals a bold move towards embracing a younger, more diverse audience. Known historically for their preppy polos and tennis whites, Lacoste has been steadily reinventing itself over the past few years—and Taylor Zakhar Perez feels like the cherry on top of their style evolution.

This isn’t just about underwear (though we’re certainly not mad about that focus). It’s about redefining what the brand stands for. Perez’s open-mindedness and advocacy for inclusivity—as seen during his ambassadorship for the 30th SAG Awards—align perfectly with Lacoste’s modern values. Generosity, respect, boldness? Check, check, and check.

I too can vouch for their glow up. I recently got a hold of their Men’s Paris Zip-Up Sweatshirt and I have not been able to put it down. It’s comfy, looks sharp and can be easily dressed up or down. You may or may not have caught me wearing one on CP24 Christmas day, talking Boxing Day sales.

A croc worth cheering for

We’d be remiss not to gush about how perfectly Perez embodies the “Lacoste lifestyle.” Whether he’s front-row at the brand’s Spring-Summer 2025 show or lounging in his latest campaign, he’s giving off major cool guy next door vibes—with just enough edge to keep us intrigued. And let’s not overlook how the brand’s pivot to feature someone like Perez as their ambassador makes them feel fresher than ever.

It’s no secret that the fashion industry is in the midst of a major cultural shift, prioritizing authenticity over perfection and diversity over exclusivity. Lacoste partnering with a figure as charismatic and genuine as Taylor Zakhar Perez feels like a huge step in the right direction. They’re not just keeping up with the times; they’re setting the pace.

Fans, rejoice

If social media is anything to go by, fans are already eating this up. From TikTok to Twitter (or whatever Elon Musk’s platform is called by the time you’re reading this), Taylor Zakhar Perez’s face—and, let’s be honest, abs—are all anyone can talk about. And while we’re here for the thirst posts, the real tea is how this collaboration reflects a shift in what we value as consumers: relatability, authenticity, and a damn good story.

@nickys.aep im looking right in his face obviously 🤨 #taylorzakharperez #taylorzakharperezedit #redwhiteandroyalblue #lacoste🐊 #foryou #foryoupage #fy #fyp ♬ original sound – Louis &lt3

A cultural moment

Lacoste teaming up with Taylor Zakhar Perez is more than just a brand move—it’s a cultural moment. From his heartthrob status to his advocacy for inclusivity, Perez is the perfect ambassador for a brand that’s looking to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. And if the campaign imagery is any indication, this partnership is going to be as enduring as Lacoste’s signature crocodile.

So here’s to Taylor Zakhar Perez, Lacoste’s latest MVP. Whether he’s heating up the Parisian skyline or inspiring us to embrace our own boldness, one thing’s clear: this croc is on the move, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

What exactly is Taylor Z Perez wearing in these Lacoste campaign images?

And where to shop? You’re in luck, you can grab a 3-pack for less than $30 CAD from Lacoste directly.

Lacoste Stretch Trunks

Currently on sale for $28.99 CAD in a 3-pack that comes in either black (as seen in one of the images, blue or grey variants in the same cut.

Or the white, as seen in the other shot, which also comes in a three pack for the same price and on sale as well.