Fashion Designer Kevin Germanier Shines After Olympic Recognition

Kevin Germanier, a rising talent in the fashion world, has garnered attention following his role in the Paris Olympics. “While the industry tends to favor polished looks, I relate more to Dr. Frankenstein, always experimenting with materials,” he remarked. The designer crafted the spectacular Golden Voyager costume, utilizing recycled video tapes from his childhood and countless pearls, which served as his childhood treasures.

Before his Olympic recognition, the 32-year-old was already a prominent figure, admired for his playful and retro designs, as well as his proficiency in haute couture. Designing the costume for dancer Arthur Cadre while keeping it under wraps for nine months was a highlight for Germanier. Reflecting on his recent presentation at Paris Fashion Week on September 24, he noted, “This has been the most incredible experience.”

Germanier described the Olympic event as the largest platform he has ever received, and even weeks later, he remains astonished. Vogue praised his costume as “the most remarkable of the ceremony,” sparking excitement across social media platforms.

Following the trend of many contemporary designers, Germanier has embraced upcycling as a key aspect of his work, motivated by both conviction and economic necessity. His journey into upcycling began during an internship in Hong Kong when he stumbled upon bags of pearls that had been damaged by sunlight. “Upcycling is about creating something extraordinary from what others deem trash,” he asserted.

This creative spirit was instilled in him at a young age, as he learned from his mother and grandmother in Granges, Switzerland, who preferred to mend clothing rather than buy new items. Their influence led him to pursue studies at Central Saint Martins, one of London’s most prestigious fashion institutions.

In his early days, Germanier often worked with a muted color palette. However, with a position at Louis Vuitton secured, he decided to make a bold statement during his final examination, proclaiming, “It has to shine brightly!” Since then, the designer, typically clad in black, has fully embraced a vibrant aesthetic.

Germanier maintains a humorous outlook on his profession, stating, “We’re not here to solve global issues; our focus is on creating beautiful garments.” His dresses have found their way onto the bodies of celebrities like Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift.

Despite his artistic success, Germanier understands the commercial realities of fashion. “Identifying products that will sell well is essential,” he emphasized. His bestselling item, a playful baguette bag crafted from multicolored pearls, exemplifies this approach.

Germanier’s aspirations extend beyond accessories; he has been engaged by LVMH for a “secret” project aimed at utilizing their waste effectively. He dreams of one day leading a prestigious fashion house like Dior, where he believes significant changes can be implemented. While he enjoys the process of transforming waste into beauty, he asserts, “Creating will always be part of my journey. If it ever stops being enjoyable, I’ll step back.”