Kevin Germanier, the innovative Swiss designer behind the Golden Voyager costume showcased at the Paris Olympics, is on a remarkable journey in the fashion industry. “The fashion realm often prefers a sleek aesthetic, but I find myself more akin to Dr. Frankenstein, always experimenting with various materials,” he shared. His stunning costume, a blend of recycled video tapes from his youth and a plethora of pearls, was a standout moment during the closing ceremony.
Even prior to this recognition, the 32-year-old had gained acclaim for his distinctive, whimsical style and expertise in haute couture. Crafting the costume for dancer Arthur Cadre while maintaining secrecy for nine months was a milestone in Germanier’s career. As he presented his Spring/Summer collection at Paris Fashion Week on September 24, he reflected, “This experience has been unparalleled.”
Describing the Olympic platform as the most significant opportunity he has ever received, Germanier is still amazed six weeks later. Vogue hailed his creation as “the standout costume of the ceremony,” with its unique design capturing the imagination of social media users.
Germanier, like many contemporary designers, has made upcycling a core principle of his work, motivated by both passion and the necessity to innovate. His journey into this practice began during an internship in Hong Kong, where he encountered discolored bags of pearls. “Upcycling goes beyond shopping at vintage stores; it’s about transforming waste into remarkable creations,” he explained.
This mindset was fostered in his childhood home in Granges, Switzerland, where he learned from his mother and grandmother to repair clothing rather than replace it. Their encouragement led him to enroll at Central Saint Martins, London’s top fashion school.
Initially, Germanier’s designs were monochromatic, but with a job offer from Louis Vuitton secured, he decided to embrace a bold approach in his final exam, declaring, “It has to be dazzling!” This decision propelled him into the world of vibrant colors, a signature of his brand today.
“I find humor essential in our line of work,” he said with a chuckle. “We’re not here to resolve significant health issues; we create visually stunning garments.” Notable figures like Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift now wear his creations.
Despite his success, Germanier recognizes the commercial nature of fashion. “Finding popular products is crucial, whether it’s a handbag or a scarf,” he stated. His most popular item is a delightful baguette bag made from colorful pearls.
Looking ahead, Germanier’s ambitions extend beyond accessories. Recently recruited by LVMH for a “secret” initiative focused on waste reduction, he aspires to one day head a prestigious fashion house such as Dior, where he can effectuate significant change. While he enjoys the process of upcycling, he insists, “As long as I can create, this will remain a part of my journey. However, if it becomes less enjoyable, I won’t hesitate to move on.”
