Today we’d like to introduce you to Tania.
Hi tania, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Tania Hernández Dolz. I was born in El Paso, TX, and raised in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua
so I proudly consider myself a border person.
Since I was very young, I’ve been drawn to the arts. I started with dance and piano lessons and continued dancing into college, where I pursued a minor in dance. Dance has always been my biggest passion, and for a time, I considered making it my career. But I was also fascinated by something else—the magic of theater and the process of bringing a production to life. That’s why I decided to major in Theater Tech and Design with an emphasis in Costume Design. For me, this field perfectly combined my love for theater and fashion.
Over the years, I have channeled my passion for dance through costume design and wardrobe coordination at a professional level—not only for dance productions but across the performing arts. My career has given me the opportunity to work in a wide range of productions, from theater and film to television and touring shows.
Being based on the border has been a unique advantage. It allowed me to work professionally across the tri-state region of New Mexico, Texas, and Chihuahua, Mexico, broadening my experience and perspective. That journey eventually brought me to Austin, where I am currently the Wardrobe Supervisor for all productions in the Department of Theatre and Dance at UT. Here, I’ve grown so much in my career, and it has opened my mind to even bigger opportunities.
I feel incredibly blessed to be from the border and will always appreciate the opportunities I had that led me to where I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Growing up between two countries gave me a unique perspective on culture, identity, and opportunity. It also meant navigating two worlds daily, adapting to different environments, and constantly moving between them.
But living on the border also came with challenges. The long lines and unpredictable wait times at the ports of entry were a daily reality, making something as simple as getting to school or work exhausting. Migration policies and the instability they create affect our communities directly, often limiting opportunities for those of us who live in this in-between space. On top of that, Ciudad Juárez has faced waves of violence that shaped my upbringing, forcing me to be constantly aware of my surroundings and the risks that came with simply moving through my city. As a woman pursuing a career in a technical field, I also encountered the challenge of proving myself in an industry where job opportunities were not always equal. These struggles were difficult, but they also made me resilient, adaptable, and determined to carve out a space for myself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I work in the world of costumes and performance, specializing in costume design, wardrobe supervision, and coordination for theater, film, and television. I’ve had the privilege of working on major productions, Broadway tours locally, concerts, and university theater, where I currently serve as the Wardrobe Supervisor for the Department of Theatre and Dance at UT Austin. Beyond my work in the performing arts, I also have my own embroidery brand, (@la.dolz) where I create unique, handmade designs. Each piece is carefully crafted to tell a story, making every garment feel personal and special.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the way I merge creativity with sustainability. I am deeply passionate about upcycling and giving clothes a second life, whether through embroidery, reconstruction, or reimagining fabrics into something new. In both my costume work and my brand, I focus on making meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Aside from my work in costume and design, I also have a deep love for performing. Acting and dancing have always been a part of my life, and I still practice them whenever I can. I’ve had the opportunity to act in several musicals and plays, which has given me an even greater appreciation for storytelling from both sides of the stage.
What sets me apart is my perspective as a “border person” and my ability to blend different influences. Mexican heritage, theatrical storytelling, and fashion, to create something truly unique. I see clothing as more than just fabric; it’s an extension of identity, history, and artistry. Whether designing for a production, creating embroidered pieces for my brand, or performing on stage, I strive to make art that connects with people on a deeper level.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is being around people, especially the ones I love and share a passion with. I love meeting new people too, connecting over ideas, creativity, or just a good conversation.
I also find so much joy in the little things that make me feel alive like being in nature, getting lost in a good book, creating something with my hands, or going to cultural events that inspire me. Cooking, driving around while singing at the top of my lungs, and performing are things that truly light me up because they let me express myself in the most natural way.
At the end of the day, what makes me happy is just fully experiencing life through art, through people, and through those moments that make me feel completely present and connected.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @latania_hd, @la.dolz, @thdolz.costumedesigns
