By ERIN SEITZLER, Four Points News
Tania Martinez Minnich is a local Comanche Trail resident whose dreams — influenced by her culture — are coming to be. The mother of two, is the founder and CEO of Modiste by Tania, a local fashion line with its first ever collection in production and coming out soon.
Minnich has been working on this collection in her head for over a decade, and says she hopes to have wares in hand by spring or at least by mid-2020.
“It combines my upbringing in Latin America, and my passion for making beautiful things with my own hands that will not harm the environment,” she said. “I created Modiste to advocate for sustainable fashion, to support local artisans around the world, and invest in those communities that are affected by the rising trend of fast fashion.”
Minnich is working to bring “environmentally beneficial” clothing to the market.
“The rise of fast fashion has created an imbalance in the fashion ecosystem, taking a toll on the already fragile condition of our environment and also is driving local artisans out of business,” she said.
Raised on the coast of Honduras, Minnich comes from a lineage of matriarch seamstresses. The name of her brand comes from her culture.
“Modiste means dressmaker in Castilian, that’s the dialect of my heritage. It’s a beloved word and it’s the perfect name for my company,” she said.
Although she cherishes her homeland of Honduras, she says that now Austin is her home. She loves her “charming Comanche Trail neighborhood facing Lake Travis.”
“It’s home,” she said, adding that Austin has the perfect balance of tech innovation, art and lifestyle for her family.
Modiste by Tania is currently in production of working on her collection. So far Minnich has a collection of ready-to-wear of 15 designs including pants, dresses, a jumpsuit and duster coat. She also has a collection of intimates and a collection of custom made gowns.
Minnich envisions her clients to be business women of all ages and sizes, who do a lot of traveling and social engagements, and who acknowledge current trends. Clients are expected to be those whose day-to-day wear is inspired by fashion, art, travel and their workplace. Their style is a combination of professional and edgy.
“They are also socially and ethically conscious, who have a strong care for themselves, the people around them, and the environment,” she added.
“I am like most women — forward moving, family centered, and my day is stacked with shifting tasks. I always add that one extra piece to feel more elegant or organized,” Minnich said. “I elevate even my most casual wears. I want this for my customers too. Day-to-evening core pieces make all the difference.”
Minnich said that Modiste is an extension of her life, both challenging and rewarding.
“I have a huge heart for women, for servicing them, for supporting them. I am structuring my company to be able to give back,” Minnich concluded.
