The Golden Traveler’s Costume and the Pianist’s Film Cape: The Most Striking Looks at the Olympic Closing Ceremony

The Paris 2024 Olympics came to a spectacular end on August 11 with a grand closing ceremony at the Stade de France. The event featured a dazzling array of performances, including a parade of flags, theatrical shows, star-studded acts, and the handover of the Games to Los Angeles. Among the standout moments were the Golden Traveler costume and the film cape worn by the pianist.

One of the highlights of the evening was the Golden Traveler — a fantastical character who descended from the skies to meet the Greek goddess Nike and symbolically “revive” the Olympic Games. The role was played by French dancer Arthur Cadre. The costume was designed by Swiss designer Kevin Germanier, known for his couture work with a futuristic touch. Germanier's designs are eco-friendly, and this particular costume was made from recycled materials. Inspired by the golden disk sent into space in 1977 aboard the Voyager spacecraft, Germanier created the costume using 20,000 shimmering beads and 167 old video cassettes with cartoons found in his mother’s basement.

Kevin Germanier also created costumes for the 120 dancers who performed various gymnastic routines on massive Olympic rings behind the Golden Traveler. Each costume was made from sustainable materials, highlighting the designer’s commitment to eco-friendly fashion.

Another impressive moment was the flying pianist Alain Rocha, who, along with his grand piano, was lifted into the air during his performance. For this look, Germanier used film from the same video cassettes to craft a long cape with a dramatic train.

Most of the celebrity costumes were designed by French designers. Singer Zahia de Sagazan wore an airy tulle dress by Louis Vuitton, while swimmer Léon Marchand, who carried the Olympic torch, opted for a classic black suit from the same brand. Performer Yseult, who sang Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” donned a couture outfit created by Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior.

These outfits truly showcased haute couture at its finest, bringing a touch of magic to the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics.