As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Milan, a talented costume designer from Quebec is making waves on the global stage, outfitting elite figure skaters with his exquisite creations. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer turned fashion designer, has been crafting elaborate costumes for over a decade. His journey from a passion for opulent fabrics to the Olympic arena is a testament to his dedication and artistry.
From Dance Floor to Design Studio
Caron’s fascination with costume design ignited early in his life, driven by a love for the dazzling aesthetics of performance wear. “I was captivated by the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics,” Caron shared in a recent interview. This passion led him to LaSalle College in Montreal, where he honed his skills in fashion design. Originally focusing on attire for ballroom dancers, he quickly transitioned into the world of figure skating and ice dancing, an arena where his flair for dramatic designs found a natural fit.
By 2018, Caron’s talent had already made an impression on the Olympic stage when he designed the costumes for Canadian ice dancing duo Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. Their gold medal-winning performance, set to “Moulin Rouge,” showcased Caron’s ability to seamlessly blend artistry with athleticism, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
Global Reach at the Olympics
Fast forward to the 2026 Winter Games, and Caron has expanded his reach significantly. This year, 28 athletes from ten different countries are donning his designs, a prestigious roster that includes American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, along with Japanese skater Ami Nakai. Each costume is meticulously crafted, with Caron estimating that it can take up to 150 hours to complete a single piece—from the initial sketches to the final sparkling rhinestones.
The design process is highly collaborative, involving detailed discussions with athletes, coaches, and choreographers. “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 level of engagement ensures that each costume not only looks stunning but also enhances the skater’s performance on the ice.
The Art of Costume Design
Caron’s design team comprises skilled professionals, including other designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters, all working together to bring his visions to life. The intricate nature of these costumes is reflected in their price, which typically ranges from £2,800 to £6,500, depending on the complexity and the time invested.
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he harbours aspirations to branch out into other creative avenues, such as Broadway musicals and designing complete looks for touring artists. For now, however, he is relishing the opportunity to see his designs glide across Olympic ice, and in some instances, reach the podium.
Why it Matters
Caron’s work not only elevates the visual spectacle of figure skating but also highlights the significant role of costume design in enhancing athletic performances. As he showcases his creations on an international stage, he brings attention to the artistry behind sports uniforms, demonstrating that fashion and athletics can coalesce beautifully. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers and athletes alike, reminding us that behind every successful performance, there is a story woven into the fabric of the costumes.
