As the world gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, a talented costume designer from Quebec is set to make waves in the figure skating arena. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer with over a decade of experience in costume creation, will be dressing 28 athletes from ten different nations, including prominent ice dancers and skaters. His journey from a creative passion to a global platform epitomises the intersection of art and sport.
A Passion for Design
Caron’s fascination with costumes ignited during his early years. “I was very fascinated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. So I decided to go to fashion school,” he shared in an interview. This passion led him to LaSalle College in Montreal, where he honed his skills and launched a successful career designing for ballroom dancers. Eventually, his expertise caught the attention of the figure skating community, propelling him onto the Olympic stage.
By 2018, Caron had already made an indelible mark by designing the costumes for Canadian ice dance legends Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, who secured gold with a performance inspired by *Moulin Rouge*. This significant achievement laid the groundwork for his current role as a sought-after designer for Olympic athletes.
Crafting Excellence
Now, as the Winter Games approach, Caron is busier than ever, collaborating closely with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to create costumes that not only dazzle but also enhance the performance on ice. Each design can take up to 150 hours to complete, from the initial sketches to the final touch of rhinestones.
Caron noted the importance of teamwork: “We have meetings with athletes, but also with the coaches, choreographers. We talk about the music and the vision of the program.” This collaborative process ensures that each costume aligns perfectly with the athlete’s artistic expression and competitive edge.
In his studio, a skilled team of designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters work tirelessly to bring each vision to life. The intricate labour involved is reflected in the pricing of these bespoke costumes, which range from £2,800 to £6,500, depending on the complexity of the design and the time required for completion.
A Broader Vision
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he harbours ambitions of expanding his creative repertoire. He aims to branch out into Broadway productions and design complete looks for touring musicians. However, for now, he feels immensely privileged to witness his creations make their debut on the Olympic ice.
Among the athletes donning his designs this year are American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, alongside Japan’s Ami Nakai, each poised to deliver breathtaking performances that will surely capture the spirit of the Games.
Why it Matters
Caron’s presence at the Olympics underscores the vital role of costume design in enhancing athletic performances in figure skating. His ability to blend artistry with functionality not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of the sport but also contributes to the athletes’ confidence and expression on the ice. As he showcases his unique talents on a global platform, Caron is not just dressing athletes; he is helping to shape the visual narrative of the Winter Olympics, inspiring future generations of designers and performers alike.
