Andrea - Hi :) School Model Search Winner

I love fashion because...

2010-08-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

It expresses everything about you. It's an art and it can change your mood. New clothes, a new style, and a new design can make you a happier person.

I'm a busy girl!!! These are all the extracurricular activites I'm passionate about...

2010-07-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

I'm a drama club member, since freshman year and I've been in every play as the costume/make-up/hair crew leader since sophomore year. I even designed the costumes for the townspeople in Beauty and the Beast.

My fashion icon...

2010-06-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

The fashion icon I most identify with in no one.

Because...
I follow my own path. I follow a lot of trends, from preppy to punk, but I always remain true to myself. Also, because I design clothing, it comes from my imagination rather than someone else's style.

LISTENING PARTY!!! Check it out!

2009-12-05T18:14:00.000-08:00

Priscilla Renea
On Saturday 12/5

3-6pm

Timbaland

Sunday 12/6

3-6pm

Hear their entire albums

while you get your shop on!

Go check them out, they're going to be a blast

Thanksgiving

2009-12-05T18:09:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for my family and my friends.
They're always there for me through thick and thin.
I am thankful to have the opportunity to blog
for Torrid and be a part of the advisory panel
and thankful to be part of such a tight group of
girls in the Torrid Community.
You are all beautiful and make me happy to be
a plus sized diva. We're hot...just sayin' haha

Rock it.

Hope your thanksgivings were amazing :)

I ate Quorn Faux Meat Roast
and all the other fixings of thanksgiving.....vegetarian style.
Delicious

Holiday Picks!

2009-12-05T17:55:00.000-08:00

I think what every girl needs is a good

peacoat, pair of boots, hat and scarves

in order to prepare for winter.

It's already icy here in Washington.

So I'm all cozied up but don't fret about winter.

Torrid is here!

Here's some cute picks

Black & White :)

2009-12-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

My favorite black and white outfit would have to be something
simple yet classy and fashion forward.
SO!

I'd pick:
-A black tank top or scoop neck shirt
-A white cardigan, preferably long
-A studded belt to wrap around my waist
-A black ruffled high waist skirt
-Lace or just regular black leggings/tights
-Black booties or high heels.

Ooo sounds so fabulous :)

Halloween

2009-12-02T12:59:00.000-08:00

I planned on having people over and going trick or treating, but everyone was busy.

So I chilled with my parents,

handed out candy,

watched scary movies and waited

until my best friend came over

and spent the night. We had tons of fun.

I dressed as Alice with my costume from Torrid of course.

I looked quite adorable I must say.

I teased my hair up all big and wore a red petticoat.

Yea I'm a dork :)

Hope you guys had a great halloween!

Fall Shows

2009-10-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

HEYYYYY

Have you guys been watching the latest Fall TV shows????
Well if not, here's my lineup of shows:

1. GLEE- OMG....this is my favorite show right now, it's funny, interesting and of course involves singing. Since I'm a drama geek, it totally fits some of the things that go on. It has to do with a show choir and their struggles during high school ;)

2. House
3. CSI (all)
4. Project Runway of course

:]

HALLOWEEN!!!!!!

2009-10-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh you guys,

HALLOWEEN IS COMING!!!!!!

Here's my top 3 costumes:

1. Snow Princess
2. Miss Wonderland
3. Miss Muffet

They're sooooo cute and they fit great :D

I went to Party City one time to get a "plus size" costume and
it was supposed to be a 2x and I could barely get it up my thighs.
With the Torrid costume, it fits perfectly, they're comfortable,
flattering and theres a good selection.

Torrid has a lookbook and mini videos for the Torrid Costumes.
Check them out they're pretty cool.

So definitely check everything out and I hope you find a costume
you love at Torrid :D

Raise Awareness

2009-10-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

Hey Girls,

Just want to remind everyone that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and at Torrid this month you can donate money for Breast Cancer research. There's also a ton of merchandise you can buy such as: hoodies, tshirts and more.

I think as women, we should all take part in helping each other because you never know who will get it and it's to help past, current and future women diagnosed.

-Andrea <3

Celebration!

2009-09-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I had a wonderful time at my VIP party with my family and two best friends. The employees at the Northgate Torrid were awesome, so if you're reading this, you guys were amazing, funny, and so cool, I look forward to seeing you guys again soon.

We had cupcakes, Sparkling cider, dressed up and had fun together.

As you can see, there is my store, the Northgate Mall Torrid, there is me with the manager, she was fabulous, there is my best friend & I in cool leggings and then me dressed up, loved it. Also, there is my friend and I again dressed in the same dress and then my other best friend rockin' Torrid. We HAD to try on costumes of course! So we had a lot of fun with that and then there's us and our treats.

Unfortunately I have the flu and haven't really used my computer, I've

just been on my iPhone trying to update myself with the world haha.

By The WAY!!!!!

My 18th Birthday is......

OCTOBER 6th!!!

So! I have to figure out my party, theme, etc. I'm super excited, I mean

this VIP party, then my birthday? :D Awesome.

So you know you're all invited right?

I think I might have an Alice In Wonderland themed party since

I'm pretty much obsessed.

Anyways,

Love you all

XOXO

I'll talk to you all later :)

Hello Seattle!!!!

2009-09-08T22:49:00.001-07:00

& other parts of Washington, like me.
You're invited to:

To celebrate and hang out with me and friends. It'd be cool to get to know other girls from the area and shop and all that good stuff. Let me know if you're coming or just stop on in and say hi.
I'm looking forward to seeing all of you and enjoying the party.

XOXOXO Andrea <3

PS: Add me on myspace, facebook, msn, etc.

DENIM! :D

2009-09-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Girlssss!!!

So, I believe that the most important part to any girl's wardrobe is denim.

Mostly jeans, because they're basic, versatile and adorable.

So....Here's my favorite:

Fragile Dark-Rinse Virtual Stretch Skinny Jean

I love the rinse, I love the stitching, it's really basic, clean and just gives a clean slate for your outfit.

Another favorite is the Black Faux Denim Leggings, I mean who wouldn't love them? Perfect for tunics and long tees and they hug your curves, I'm sooo getting these :D

Summer 09 :D

2009-08-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

Hey Girrrrlsss!!!

So! Summer 2009, I hope you guys had an amazing summer and are enjoying your last weeks if that's the case, like me. I had soooo many plans for summer, but unfortunately didn't get to do all of it, but I'm still on vacation, SO I have some time to squeeze stuff in.

What I've done this summer????

1. Hung out at the lake with friends
2. Stayed up till 8am
3. SLEEPOVERS!!!
4. I went to Disneyland for the first time EVER!!! With my best friend
5. Went to California to visit my best friend and his family for 3 weeks and we went around places.
6. Toured the FIDM campus in Orange County, so exciting!!!
7. Went to TORRID of course and bought an adorable red tank top, that's like my favorite top now.
8. Going to Seattle's Bumbershoot Sept 5-7, can't WAIT!
9. Learned how to make Cambodian food and other things from my best friend's mom.
10. Went to Huntington Beach, walked and stuff, hopefully I go again before I leave.
11. Went to my friend's lake house and hung out with the girls
12. Hung out with my friends ALL summer long and spent days around them, because I love them ALL that much.

I've been enjoying the weather and being here in Cali, but I miss Washington as well.
I'm going to be shopping again at Torrid soon and getting some cute things.
TTYL

Love, Andrea

Hot Item Must Have!!!

2009-08-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Girls!
So, back to school, back in fashion and looking hot! In my opinion, the MUST-HAVE for Fall is this Black Faux Suede Knee-High Ashley Boot from Torrid, or the Brown Faux Suede Knee-High Ashley Boot. They are basic, come in neutral colors and are knee high, perfect for wearing over jeans or tights. Also, because they're flat, they're comfortable, perfect for school and still fashionable.

I wear my boots with everything, I have black ones from Target and Brown Faux Suede, Fringed boots from Torrid. I put them over jeans and with tights. I'm definitely getting these boots though later this fall.

So, be sure to check these out, I know I will. They will really add something to your fall wardr0be and keep your style up to date.

Well, untill next time girls!! LOVE Andrea <3

Favorite Summer Accesories :)

2009-08-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

Hola!
Greetings from So Cal.
I've been looking around on Torrid and I'm in love with these new items they're bringing in.
For example:

1. The Gold and Purple Medallion Necklace is amazing and if you've kept up with my blogs, you'll understand my obsession with long necklaces. Especially when they have a big charm at the bottom. This one is so vintage looking, like it was taken from a shipwreck. This is going to go with practically anything you put on and is going to go great with a plain t-shirt.

2. No girl, especially a rocker is complete without a studded belt. Whether you prefer a neon one, 2 or 3 row or even the newer styles, this is a must have. I wear my 3-row studded belt practically every day, it looks hot and keeps your pants up haha. Go to your local Torrid and scope these out, try them on and perhaps buy one. I'm really happy I purchased mine, especially since it's animal free :D

3. A great Denim item to go with both of these items is the Fragile Dark-Rinse Virtual Stretch Skinny Jean. They're so cute and they have a great dark rinse which is my favorite, very slimming and clean looking. The cut is perfect, rather than a skin tight skinny jean, it's looser and still gives the same effect of a skinny jean but with a more comfortable fit, especially since they're the Virtual Stretch.

I hope these 3 items inspire you and maybe you'll go check them out. I know I'll be going to get a few items soon.

My insipration is hippie and rocker. If you have any questions, let me know, I'd be more than happy to talk to you. I hope to talk to you all soon, MUCH LOVE!
-Andrea

Back 2 School!

2009-08-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Girls!

I'm so sorry this is being posted late. I made videos on my iphone and all that but wasn't able to post due to getting ready to come to Cali.

NOW: I'm in Anaheim, CA. Visiting my best friend. We're gonna be everywhere, Universal Studios, Disneyland, etc. Anyways, just wanted to give you a little about me. Now for back to school.

Personally, back to school shopping to me is buying for comfort. I don't see a point in wearing high heels, dressing up, etc. That can wait.

Top 5:
1. Hoodies: They're amazing, cute with practically anything and they offer a cover up and come in so many styles to choose from, perfect for school, check out Torrid's hoodies, I love the zebra print ones.
2. Jeans: You need to buy jeans, especially Torrid's skinny jeans, they're comfortable and stylish. Perfect for back to school.
3. Knee High Boots: The faux suede boot from Torrid is not only super adorable & basic, but it falls into the thigh high boot trend for this season on the runways and is flat, perfect for school.
4. Cardigan: Great for the upcoming fall, it's perfect to cover up, add to your outfit and make you look hot. I especially love the open cardigans.
5. Scarves: I love scarves, they're so awesome to wear with any outfit and makes them look so much better. Basic tshirt and jeans? Add a scarf, it gives it a little something.

Overall, for back to school, like I said, buy for comfort, but also look for trends going on. Check out runway photos, look at the newest styles from your favorite stores and don't be afraid to bring something back and mix it in with the new.
Alright,
well i gotta go I'll be keeping in touch :D LOVE YOU GUYS!

Summer '09 Accesories!!

2009-07-28T20:23:00.000-07:00

UPDATE!!! Sorry, that's the wrong Facebook URL (in video), it's:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/andreapeaceloveart?ref=profile

Silly Me :D

Summer accesories!!!!

Whoo! So I'm really into the hippie look,
always have been and I like to add certain
items to my outfits to show that so for
accesories, my picks are:

#1-Headbands
#2-Long necklaces
#3-Feather Earrings

In general, things with feathers are HOT!

Links are posted at the end of the video but
if you didn't catch em, I have em listed after the video, below.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/andreapeaceloveart?ref=profile

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/14787663

MSN: ayrioja@hotmail.com

Summer Trends '09

2009-07-22T22:50:00.000-07:00

Oh, the video blog.... pardon my weirdness.

#1 Short Dresses

#2 Cardigan [mentioned with above, perfect cover up]

#3 Shorts [shown but not mentioned]

#4 Long necklaces

#5 Headbands

Denim Piece to have: Bermuda Short, shown on the mannequin on the 2nd outfit.

Enjoy ;)

Apprently I look a lot like Jordin Sparks :D

2009-07-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Funny :D
I don't know I think we look alike actually
but I was a bit confused at first haha.
I'm flattered though cause she's gorgeous

Model Search Experience & Opportunity

2009-07-14T23:20:00.000-07:00

Hello!!!

Well, the Torrid House of Dreams National Model Search is going on this weekend and it's an amazing opportunity for those women 16+.
I hope all of you enter it.
Don't worry if you don't think you can make it or have doubts. Don't listen to people that aren't encouraging you. Do it for yourself. For the opportunity of a lifetime. You have an amazing chance, don't give it up.
Either enter by visiting your local Torrid or send yours in by mail like I did.

When I entered the Torrid Hi School Model Search, I was very confident in myself. I really would've loved to be able to model for them on the site or get pictures taken, but the chance to be part of a fashion advisory board is amazing. I love fashion but you probably wouldn't tell by how I dress.

I first heard of Torrid from Seventeen Magazine a few years back. Loved it. I decided to enter the contest when I first heard about it, I mean what do I have to lose? I picked some pictures I'd taken before as my headshot and bodyshot. Filled out the application and gave it to my brother to be sent. He mailed it on the deadline! Like it had to be postmarked by then. I was so nervous, because I thought it wouldn't make it.

Becky called me and at first I didn't recognize the number but I called back after I heard the voicemail and at the time I was talking to my friend and I was like...OMG I think I WON I think I WON! and I called back. Then Becky called me and told me the news and my stomach filled with butterlies! HAHA I was so excited I wanted to scream and do a dance but I remained calm and accepted and told my mom and everyone is so proud of me.

I think what I love about it most and to be heard and also to let others see that a big girl can win a modeling contest and is beautiful despite the what the media says. My classmates were like, OMG Congratulations that's so awesome. I have modeled in my fashion class' fashion show and was the only big girl so I'm super excited to show it off. So far, we've recieved our prizes and have been blogging. I hope a lot of people read them. This whole experience has made me really greatful for the opportunity Torrid is giving girls.

I hope that you, yes YOU! Will enter this contest, 16+ there's no limit, size, race, etc doesn't matter. Enter and hopefully you'll be a lucky winner. Really....GOOD LUCK TO ALL YOU FABULOUS DIVAS!

Remember, this weekend July 17th-19th, and if you can't make it to the store, mail it like I did, you'll have the same chances.

LOVE, ANDREA!!

Hey Guys!!!

2009-07-09T00:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry I'm writing this a little late.

So....I've been super bored at home and

summer is all about fun, sooooo I've decided to plan some events.

Of course, I have to go to Warped Tour this summer. Here for Seattle, WA it's Aug 15th.

Definitely going to checkout some amazing bands.

Bite of Seattle: which is a big food festival in downtown Seattle, foods from all over, which is just another reason for me to eat thai food and have bubble tea :)

Bumbershoot: A music and arts festival in Sept. It's so amazing, I've been going since I was little and you get to see popular bands as well as local and up and coming bands. There's tons of art, culture and street performers too. Many freebies as well. Oh! and comedy. Checking out Modest Mouse, Franz Ferdinand and Jason Mraz.

I'm going to hopefully go to Silverwood, in Idaho and get on those rides. Very fun place, if you haven't been there you should check it out at some point in life haha, one of the rides, well....I seriously thought I'd fall off and die, but I'm going on again if I go this August.

As for movies, I'm definitely seeing Bruno, Harry Potter & Public Enemies. *Sigh* Johnny Depp, the most amazing actor.....ever... ;)

Also, I'm going to get a mini skirt, sandals and stuff since it'll be hotter next month. I finally got my dresses from the ever so wonderful Torrid. One maxi and one short bubble dress. Very cute.

I'll also be sewing some more and making more and more hemp bracelets :D I'll have to post a blog showing each thing I complete. Tune in next week!

<3>

PS: Don't forget to add me on Myspace or Facebook, MSN, email me. Questions, wanna talk? Doesn't matter, I love talking and meeting new people

4th of July Must Have!

2009-06-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hey!
Well I think the 4th of July must have is:
drum roll please.....

The Torrid Denim Faded Wash Knit Ruffle Miniskirt

Yes, I tried this on last week and loved it. It's so cute, because:

-Ruffled Hem

-Lace Up in the back, on the waistband

-Light wash, makes it go with almost anything

-Mini Skirt to show off those legs

-Denim pieces are always in style and this just shows you one of the many ways Torrid is keeping up with fashion, especially since they are pairing the denim with the knit jersey ruffles.

I think it'd be a perfect piece to pair with a plain t-shirt or a fashionable top, sandals, etc.

Let me introduce myself...

2009-06-23T00:51:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!!

Well, my name is Andrea and I'm currently 17 years old. I'm going to be a senior! Class of 2010 :) I feel like before you read my blog, you should get to know me, because I am your new best friend haha.

Fun Facts:

I'm a vegetarian, 4 years and counting
I'm a fashion designer, I love to design and I'm starting to make clothes.
I'm Hispanic, I know you were so confused right? :) Yes, yes, Puerto Rican & Chilean.
My favorite perfumes are Viva La Juicy & Fantasy
I am obsessed with Karaoke
My favorite drinks are Bubble Tea & Thai Iced Tea
I'm in a Fashion Merchandising class and am going for another year
I modeled in our show, I was the only big girl, but I sure flaunted it :D
My style is a mix of hippie, British influence, preppy, rocker, scene, etc.
I'm in Drama Club. I'm the Costume extraordinaire haha fun stuff but stressful
I drive a '96 VW Golf GTI
I love movies a lot...especially musicals, Disney and comedy
My favorite designer is Alexander McQueen
I'm a big soccer fan, so shout out to my Seattle Sounders FC!
I love fashion :D

I'd love to meet all of you! Seriously, you should add me on MySpace & Facebook, just look up my name, Andrea Rioja. I'm pretty sure I'm the only one with that name.

I hope to talk to you guys real soon and enjoy my blog.

MUCH LOVE <3>

Summer Style ;)

2009-06-22T23:50:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas!

I'd just first like to say that I'm so excited to be writing to all you beautiful ladies. Now, for the fun part, I'd like to share some style tips about summer attire. I realize that we feel a little self conscious about ourselves during the swimsuit season, however I'm asking you to flaunt your curves! I want to look into some clothing and pick my favorite pieces and then show you examples that you can get at Torrid.

Dresses, dresses, dresses, now I never used to wear dresses, but now I love them. Personally I love the maxi dress look. It's perfect for us curvy ladies. I have a really big chest and it's hard for me to fit into the dresses I want, but the tube and halter styles are amazing! This style of a dress flows over our curves and most importantly is comfortable. There is so much variety with this style that it's hard to pick just one.

There are four different maxi styles at Torrid that I'm in love with.

First off we have the Black Knit Double V-Neck Maxi Dress. The reason I love this dress is because it's sexy but subtle because of the two v-necks. You don't show a lot of cleavage and gives coverage on the arms which I always like. You can play it up with jewelry of any color since it's black, but I would put turquoise, gold, kelly green, or natural beaded accessories with it. Try adding a waist belt to emphasize your waist.

Next is the Green Ivory and Black Tiered Knit Maxi Dress. One of my absolute favorite items in the store and because it's a colorblock piece, it's fun but simple. The halter neck again is great for support and gives you a reason not to wear a necklace. Keep the jewelry simple, earrings and a bracelet.

The Green and Brown Floral Paisley Tube Maxi Dress is by far my favorite, because I'm a pretty hippie chic person myself. It's so adorable and because there's so much pattern going on the accessories are going to be simple and neutral. I would choose a headband and a bracelet myself.

Last are the Jersey Knit Tube Maxi Dresses because they're simple. It's a basic summer staple. They come in different colors so you can switch it up. Anything can happen with this dress, add a belt, a sunhat, jewelry, or wear it as a cover up.

Now! Shorts. I love shorts, but this of course is my favorite:

THE BERMUDA!

Yes, the bermuda short. It let's us stay cooler in the summer, but doesn't show too much skin. It's great! So I would definitely make sure you have this item this summer. I definitely like the Source of Wisdom Dark-Rinse Denim Bermuda Short, because it's fitting to your thighs and is a dark-rinse, which is my favorite. It has a cuffed bottom which is really popular nowadays and still looks sexy in opinion.

Skirts :) Well personally I've always been a miniskirt girl, so yes, I have to go with my heart. The mini is in and looks hot girls. I like the Source of Wisdom Medium-Wash Raw Edge Denim Miniskirt and the Ed Hardy New York Denim Miniskirt, because they're edgy. This is perfect for summer, because it's short and keeps you cool while showing off those killer legs. Pair is with a peasant top, tank top, or wear it over your swimsuit at the beach.

Swimwear is always my favorite because I love so many styles and just want them all. Here are my favorites! And the award goes to...:

1. Best Board Short: Black White and Neon-Pink Zebra Board Shorts, they're cute and edgy. Although they work best with a simple swimsuit, they'll add a little zest. The stretch waistband means more comfort for you.

2. Best for Busty Beauties: Black Twist-Bust Underwire Tankini Top, because it's an underwire you get more support and the cute sweetheart cut is super flattering. Plus the twist is so adorable.

3. Best Pinup Look: Leopard and Red Ruched Halter Swimsuit, because of the halter top and the slightly lower cut bottom, it's a definitely sexy retro look. Rawr! Haha

4. Best Tankini: Aqua and White Striped Halter Swim Top, because it's sooo adorable and the colors are perfect for summer! The horizontal stripes look hot and you can pair it with any bottom you want.

Now, honestly, I can't pick a favorite top, so I'm not going to write about it.

I think my favorite look overall is a long v-neck t-shirt with long necklaces, with a knit or denim miniskirt and gladiator sandals. It's just sooo simple, but cute and fashion forward. You could even play it up with gladiator heels, chains, layering tank tops or leggings.

Love,

Andrea :) muah!