The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Released in 1999 to mark the turn of the millennium, 2000 was crafted by veteran perfumer Jean-Michel Duriez. Lacoste, the French sportswear icon founded in 1933, wanted a scent that echoed the clean lines of its polo shirt while capturing the energy of a fresh match. The name points to the new era, and the formula reflects a vision of freshness, energy, and understated confidence that aligned with the brand's athletic heritage.
The choice of lavender as the dominant heart note ties directly to Lacoste's sporting heritage, as lavender fields and aromatics are woven into French athletic culture. Grapefruit amplifies the sense of freshness that the brand sought, pairing with pear for a fruitiness that softens the herbal intensity. Coumarin bridges the botanical and warm spice elements, allowing ginger, coriander, and black pepper to coexist without harshness. Each note serves the same goal, to evoke the feeling of a clean shirt after a match.
The evolution
The fragrance jumps straight into its heart without a separate opening act, grapefruit and pear provide immediate brightness before lavender establishes its presence. Coumarin threads through the middle with sweet warmth, while ginger, coriander, and black pepper introduce successive layers of spiced warmth. As the fragrance evolves, grapefruit fades first, leaving the aromatic lavender coupled with spice and a lingering coumarin sweetness.
Cultural impact
2000 arrived at the cusp of the new millennium, positioning Lacoste’s sporty DNA within a chypre framework that was uncommon for the brand at the time. Wearers have noted its blend of fresh citrus and aromatic herbs as a bridge between the casual Eau de Sport and the more sophisticated Lacoste Original, making it a go‑to choice for those seeking a modern, athletic elegance that feels both nostalgic and forward‑looking.
