As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Milan, a spotlight shines on Quebec’s Mathieu Caron, a costume designer whose creations are turning heads on the ice. Renowned for his intricate and vibrant costumes, Caron is dressing 28 elite athletes from 10 nations, including American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, as well as Japanese skater Ami Nakai. With over a decade of experience, Caron’s designs have become synonymous with the glamour and artistry of figure skating.
From Dance Floors to Olympic Glory
Caron’s journey into the world of costume design began with his background as a ballroom dancer. His passion for beautiful fabrics and eye-catching designs led him to pursue formal training in fashion at LaSalle College in Montreal. “I was very fascinated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. So I decided to go to fashion school,” Caron explained in a recent interview. This foundational experience equipped him with the skills to create costumes that are not only visually striking but also functional for high-level competition.
Following his studies, Caron launched a business focused on designing apparel for ballroom dancers. His talents didn’t remain confined to the dance floor for long; he soon expanded his repertoire into figure skating, a move that would eventually lead him to the Olympic stage. By 2018, Caron’s designs had graced the podium, as he crafted the costumes for Canadian ice dancers Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning routine to “Moulin Rouge.”
A Collaborative Process
Creating a costume for competitive figure skating is no small feat. Caron estimates that each piece can take upwards of 150 hours to complete, from the initial concept to the final application of rhinestones. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in his design process, working closely with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to ensure that each costume aligns with the music and enhances the skater’s movement.
“We have meetings with athletes, but also with the coaches and choreographers. We talk about the music and the vision of the programme,” Caron noted. This level of engagement not only allows for a tailored design that meets the specific needs of each athlete but also fosters a sense of partnership between the designer and the performers.
Caron’s studio is a hive of creativity, staffed by a diverse team of designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters. Together, they breathe life into his vision, ensuring that each costume is a unique piece of art that reflects the spirit of the athlete.
The Cost of Craftsmanship
The meticulous nature of Caron’s work is reflected in the pricing of his costumes, which typically range from £2,800 to £6,500, depending on the complexity and the time required for each design. While figure skating remains the focal point of Caron’s business, he harbours aspirations to branch out into other creative arenas, such as Broadway productions and designing outfits for touring artists.
Despite the demanding nature of his work, Caron expresses gratitude for the opportunity to see his designs showcased on the world’s biggest stage. “I feel fortunate to see my creations glide across Olympic ice, and in some cases, onto the podium,” he said, underscoring the pride he takes in his contributions to the sport.
Why it Matters
Mathieu Caron’s impact on figure skating transcends mere aesthetics; his designs encapsulate the essence of artistry and athleticism that define the sport. By marrying fashion with function, Caron not only elevates the performance of athletes but also enhances the viewer’s experience at the Olympics. His journey reflects a broader narrative of Canadian talent making waves on international platforms, showcasing the rich tapestry of creativity that thrives in the nation. As the Olympic Games continue, Caron’s costumes serve as a reminder of the artistry behind each performance, turning ice into a canvas for expression and excellence.
