Quebec Designer Brings Glitz and Glamour to the Olympic Ice
Milan, Italy – Mathieu Caron, a Quebec-based costume designer, is making waves at the 2026 Winter Olympics, adorning some of the world’s top figure skaters with his intricate and dazzling creations. From the precision of ice dance to the soaring leaps of individual skaters, Caron’s designs are becoming a visible hallmark of the Games in Milan.
Caron’s journey to Olympic recognition began not on the fashion runway, but on the ballroom dance floor. A former competitive dancer himself, he developed a keen eye for movement and a fascination with the transformative power of costume. “I was captivated by the costumes – all the sparkle, the fabrics, the drama,” Caron told Global News. “That’s what led me to fashion school.”
After graduating from LaSalle College in Montreal, Caron initially focused on designing for ballroom dancers. However, his talent quickly drew the attention of the figure skating world, a natural progression given the shared emphasis on performance and artistry.
His breakthrough moment came in 2018, when he designed the iconic costumes worn by Canadian ice dance duo Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their gold medal-winning performance to the soundtrack of Moulin Rouge! at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. The costumes, a vibrant explosion of red and feathers, became instantly memorable, perfectly complementing the couple’s passionate and innovative routine.
Now, in Milan, Caron’s influence is even more widespread. He’s currently working with 28 athletes from 10 different countries, including American ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, and Japanese skater Ami Nakai. Each costume, he explains, is a collaborative effort, requiring extensive consultation with athletes, coaches, and choreographers.
“It’s about understanding the music, the story the skaters want to tell, and how the costume can enhance their performance,” Caron said. “We discuss everything – the lines, the colors, the movement of the fabric.”
The process is painstaking. Caron estimates that each costume can take up to 150 hours to complete, from the initial sketches to the final placement of each rhinestone. His studio team, comprised of designers, cutters, seamstresses, and pattern makers, works meticulously to bring his visions to life.
The cost reflects this dedication to craftsmanship, ranging from $3,500 to $8,000 per costume, depending on the complexity and materials used. This investment, however, is seen as crucial by athletes seeking a competitive edge. A well-designed costume can not only enhance a skater’s aesthetic presentation but also allow for greater freedom of movement and confidence on the ice.
The economic impact of the Olympic Games extends beyond medal counts and tourism. The demand for specialized services like Caron’s highlights the Games’ role in supporting creative industries and showcasing international talent. According to a 2023 report by the International Olympic Committee, the Games generate billions of dollars in economic activity globally, with a significant portion attributed to sectors like fashion and design.
While figure skating remains his primary focus, Caron has ambitions to expand his creative horizons. He hopes to bring his expertise to Broadway musicals and collaborate with touring artists, further demonstrating the versatility of his design skills.
For now, though, he finds immense satisfaction in seeing his creations glide across the Olympic ice, and potentially, contribute to moments of athletic triumph.
Video of Canada’s Piper Gilles, Paul Poirier winning bronze in ice dance at the 2026 Winter Olympics
(Source: Global News)