As the world’s gaze turns to Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics, a talented costume designer from Quebec is making waves by outfitting elite figure skaters in breathtaking garments. Mathieu Caron, a former ballroom dancer turned designer, has been crafting elaborate costumes for over a decade, and his passion for vibrant fabrics and intricate designs has propelled him into the international spotlight.
A Journey from Dance to Design
Caron’s journey began with a fascination for the dazzling costumes that captivate audiences during performances. “I was always drawn to the costumes, all the bling-bling and the fabrics. It inspired me to pursue a career in fashion,” Caron shared in an interview. After honing his skills at LaSalle College in Montreal, he launched a company dedicated to creating outfits for ballroom dancers. His talent soon transcended this niche, leading him into the world of figure skating and ice dancing.
By 2018, Caron’s designs had graced the Olympic stage, as he created the iconic costumes worn by Canadian ice dancing duo Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning routine set to *Moulin Rouge*. This success marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, one that would culminate in the grand arena of the Winter Games.
Dressing Champions: A Global Effort
Now, as he prepares for the 2026 Winter Games, Caron is thrilled to be dressing 28 athletes from ten different countries. Among the competitors adorned in his creations are American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, along with Japanese skater Ami Nakai. The designer’s meticulous process involves collaboration with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to ensure each costume not only resonates with the music but also enhances the skater’s movements on the ice.
Caron elaborated on the collaborative nature of his work: “We have meetings with athletes, coaches, and choreographers to discuss the music and the vision for the programme.” This dialogue is crucial, as it allows him to create costumes that are not just visually stunning but also functional, allowing for grace and agility during performances.
The Craft Behind the Costumes
Creating a single costume can be an incredibly time-intensive process, often taking up to 150 hours from initial sketch to the final application of rhinestones. Caron leads a dedicated team of designers, cutters, seamstresses, pattern makers, and painters, all of whom contribute to bringing these intricate garments to life. Given the extensive labour involved, the cost of these costumes reflects their craftsmanship, typically ranging from £2,800 to £6,400, depending on the design’s complexity and the time required for completion.
While figure skating remains Caron’s primary focus, he harbours aspirations to expand his creative horizons. He envisions branching out into other artistic arenas, such as Broadway musicals and designing complete looks for touring musicians.
A Dream Realised on Olympic Ice
As Caron watches his creations glide across the ice at the Winter Olympics, he feels a profound sense of gratitude. “I feel fortunate to see my designs on Olympic athletes, and in some cases, on the podium,” he remarked, reflecting on the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
His journey from a curious ballroom dancer to a celebrated costume designer exemplifies the beauty of following one’s passion, and it highlights the intricate artistry that enhances the spectacle of figure skating.
Why it Matters
Caron’s success is not just a personal triumph; it represents the intersection of sport and artistry on a global stage. As athletes push their limits in pursuit of Olympic glory, the costumes they wear become an extension of their performances, enhancing both the visual appeal and emotional resonance of their routines. Caron’s work embodies the spirit of creativity and collaboration that defines the Olympics, reminding us that behind every athletic achievement lies a story of passion, dedication, and artistry.