‘Hacks’ Costume Designer Kathleen Felix-Hager Explains How Ava’s Fashion Arc Mirrored Hannah Einbinder’s Real Life

The costume design for the acclaimed series "Hacks" has been a focal point of discussion, particularly the evolution of the character Ava, as interpreted by actress Hannah Einbinder. Costume Designer Kathleen Felix-Hager has detailed how Ava's on-screen fashion choices were intentionally crafted to mirror Einbinder's own personal growth and development throughout her twenties, a period often characterized by significant transformation. This approach aimed to imbue the character's visual presentation with a sense of authentic progression, reflecting the natural journey of self-discovery common in that stage of life.

Felix-Hager's strategy involved carefully selecting and styling garments that would visually represent Ava's changing internal landscape. As the series progresses, Ava's wardrobe is designed to reflect not just external trends but also her deepening understanding of herself and her place in the world. This nuanced approach to costume design seeks to enhance the narrative by making the character's external appearance a direct extension of her internal arc, thereby deepening the audience's connection to her journey. The intention was to create a visual language that spoke to the complexities of navigating one's twenties.

This deliberate connection between the actress's real-life experiences and the character's fashion choices underscores the intricate craft involved in television production, particularly in areas like costume design. By aligning Ava's sartorial evolution with Hannah Einbinder's own developmental stages, Felix-Hager has contributed to a more layered and believable portrayal of a young woman coming into her own. Such attention to detail in the creative process is often recognized for its significant impact on the overall quality and resonance of a series, contributing to its critical acclaim and potential for awards recognition. The series' focus on the creative aspects of filmmaking, including costume design, highlights the collaborative nature of bringing a compelling story to the screen.