As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Milan, a costume designer from Quebec is capturing the attention of audiences and athletes alike with his exquisite creations. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer turned designer, is dressing a remarkable 28 athletes from ten countries, showcasing his talent on one of the grandest stages in the world of sports. His journey from humble beginnings to Olympic recognition reflects a deep passion for costume design that has evolved over more than a decade.
A Passion for Design
Mathieu Caron’s love affair with costume design began at an early age, driven by an admiration for sparkling fabrics and theatrical artistry. “I was very fascinated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. So I decided to go to fashion school,” Caron shared. After honing his skills at LaSalle College in Montreal, he initially focused on creating costumes for ballroom dancers. However, his flair for design soon transitioned into the realm of figure skating and ice dancing.
By 2018, his talent was recognised on the Olympic stage when he designed the iconic costumes for Canadian ice dancing duo Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning performance set to *Moulin Rouge*. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Caron’s ascent in the competitive world of figure skating attire.
The Art of Costume Creation
Now, at the Winter Games in Milan, Caron is responsible for the costumes of prominent athletes, including American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, as well as Japanese skater Ami Nakai. Each costume is a testament to Caron’s meticulous craftsmanship, often taking up to 150 hours to complete. The process is highly collaborative; Caron works closely with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to ensure that each design not only aligns with the chosen music but also enhances the athletes’ movements on the ice.
“We have meetings with athletes, but also with the coaches and choreographers. We talk about the music and the vision of the programme,” Caron explained. This collaborative approach ensures that the costumes resonate with the performance, making a lasting impression on judges and audiences alike.
Caron’s studio is a hub of creativity, staffed by a talented team of designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters, all dedicated to bringing his visions to life. The costs associated with these intricate designs reflect the extensive labour involved, with prices typically ranging from £2,300 to £6,200, depending on the complexity and time required.
Future Aspirations
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he harbours aspirations to branch out into other artistic fields, such as Broadway productions and designing looks for touring artists. For now, however, he is relishing the opportunity to see his creations showcased at the Olympics, particularly as athletes don his costumes in pursuit of glory on the ice.
As the competition heats up and the athletes take to the rink, Caron’s designs are not just costumes; they are extensions of the athletes’ artistry and determination. The blend of fashion and athleticism on display is a reminder of the intricate relationship between sport and art.
Why it Matters
Mathieu Caron’s remarkable journey from a passionate designer in Quebec to a prominent figure at the Winter Olympics underscores the significance of creativity in sports. His work not only enhances the visual spectacle of figure skating but also highlights the cultural importance of costume design in athletic performance. As athletes strive for excellence, Caron’s creations serve as a vibrant reminder that the artistry of sport is just as vital as the competition itself, bringing a unique flair that captivates audiences worldwide.
