As the world gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, a Quebec costume designer is poised to make a significant impact in the realm of figure skating. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer turned designer, will be dressing elite skaters from around the globe, bringing his unique flair and artistic vision to one of the sport’s grandest platforms.
A Passion for Design
Caron’s journey into the world of costume design began over a decade ago, rooted in his childhood fascination with the vibrant fabrics and ornate designs of performance attire. “I was captivated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. That’s what drew me to fashion school,” Caron shared in a recent interview. His dedication to the craft led him to study at LaSalle College in Montreal, where he honed his skills and prepared for a career that would soon see him dressing Olympic champions.
After establishing his company focused on ballroom dance attire, Caron quickly transitioned into the world of figure skating and ice dancing. By 2018, his designs had already graced the Olympic podium, notably when he created the stunning costumes for Canadian ice dancers Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning routine inspired by *Moulin Rouge*.
A Growing Portfolio in Milan
This year, Caron’s designs will adorn 28 athletes from ten different countries at the Winter Games. Among those wearing his creations are American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, alongside Japanese skater Ami Nakai. Each costume represents not just a garment but a collaborative effort that can take up to 150 hours to complete, from initial sketches to the final touches of rhinestones.
Caron emphasises the importance of collaboration in his design process, stating, “We have meetings with athletes, as well as their coaches and choreographers. We discuss the music and the vision of the programme.” This teamwork ensures that each costume not only looks stunning but also enhances the skater’s performance on the ice.
Craftsmanship and Investment
The artistry involved in creating these costumes is reflected in their price. Depending on the complexity and the time invested, Caron’s costumes can range from £2,800 to £6,500. Each piece is a testament to the collective effort of Caron’s studio team, which includes designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters. Together, they work tirelessly to bring Caron’s imaginative designs to life.
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he harbours aspirations of branching out into other creative sectors, including Broadway musicals and designing outfits for touring artists. For now, however, he expresses immense gratitude for the opportunity to see his creations showcased on the Olympic stage, and in some cases, celebrated on the podium.
Why it Matters
Mathieu Caron’s rise in the world of costume design for figure skating underscores the intricate relationship between artistry and athleticism in sports. As he outfits top-level competitors for the Winter Olympics, he not only elevates the aesthetic experience of the events but also highlights the significant role that costume design plays in enhancing performance. Caron’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of how passion and creativity can converge to make a lasting impact on both culture and sport, especially on an international stage like the Olympics.
