How Olympic figure skating costumes are designed — from sketches to sequins

Before the sequins shimmer and the spotlight hits the ice, Olympic figure skating costumes go through an intricate design process that blends artistry, engineering and strict competition rules.

Los Angeles-based designer Lisa McKinnon has been part of that world for decades. A former skater herself, she began making her own costumes as a child and quickly gained attention for her craftsmanship. Over time, word of mouth helped build her reputation, and for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, she created costumes for U.S. figure skaters Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito.

Designing a competition costume involves far more than aesthetics. Each piece must meet regulations set by the International Skating Union. For example, nothing can fall from the costume onto the ice — doing so could result in penalties that affect a skater’s score. Designers must carefully balance beauty with performance and durability.

Collaboration is also key. Designers often work closely with skaters, choreographers and music selections to create a look that complements the routine. Some designs evolve through detailed conversations, while others are inspired more intuitively by the music and the skater’s personality.

The process is time-intensive. Designers typically spend hours researching, sketching and selecting materials before construction even begins. Building the costume can take anywhere from 10 to 40 hours, with some designers hand-placing thousands of rhinestones or crafting custom lace to achieve the desired look.

For designers, seeing their work come to life on Olympic ice is the ultimate reward — when costume, choreography and performance all come together in a seamless moment of artistry.

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