As the world tunes in to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, a talented costume designer from Quebec is capturing attention by dressing some of the most elite figure skaters on the planet. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer, has been crafting intricate costumes for over a decade, and his passion for the world of fashion has led him to the grandeur of the Olympic stage.
A Journey Through Fashion
Caron’s love affair with costume design began in his youth, sparked by an admiration for the shimmering fabrics and vibrant aesthetics of performance wear. “I was very fascinated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. So I decided to go to fashion school,” Caron shared. His formal education at LaSalle College in Montreal equipped him with the skills necessary to launch his design company, initially focused on ballroom dance attire.
However, it wasn’t long before Caron found himself immersed in the world of figure skating and ice dancing. By 2018, his designs had already graced the Olympic podium when he crafted the iconic costumes for Canadian ice dance legends Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning routine set to the music of *Moulin Rouge*.
Dressing Champions
As the 2026 Winter Games unfold, Caron is proud to announce that 28 athletes from ten different countries will wear his creations. Among these athletes are the American ice dance duo Madison Chock and Evan Bates, as well as Japan’s Ami Nakai. Each costume is a testament to Caron’s meticulous craftsmanship, with some taking up to 150 hours to complete—from initial sketches to the final placement of rhinestones.
The design process is not a solitary venture. Caron collaborates closely with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to ensure that each costume enhances the performance and aligns with the music. “We have meetings with athletes, but also with the coaches and choreographers. We talk about the music and the vision of the programme,” he explained.
The Art and Cost of Creation
Caron’s studio is a hive of activity, staffed by a talented team that includes designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters. The intricate nature of these costumes is reflected in their pricing, which ranges from £3,000 to £6,500, depending on the complexity and time invested in each piece.
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he has aspirations to branch out into other creative arenas, including Broadway musicals and complete outfits for touring artists. For now, he feels a profound sense of gratitude to see his designs showcased on the Olympic ice, with hopes of seeing his athletes ascend to the podium.
Why it Matters
Mathieu Caron’s journey to the Olympic stage highlights not only the artistry behind figure skating costumes but also the dedication and collaboration involved in the world of competitive sports. As he continues to elevate the aesthetic standards of the sport, Caron’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers and athletes alike, demonstrating that creativity and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements on an international platform. His ability to blend functionality with stunning visual appeal makes a significant impact on the athletes’ performances, reinforcing the importance of costume design in the realm of competitive sports.
