Being a fashion blogger was not her first choice, although her passion for fashion was always present.
Her goals for Andrea Strada, 24, before finishing college, where she graduated with a degree in Design and Image Consulting, were to have a clothing store, dress a celebrity, or have her own clothing brand. But as the months went by, she realized that she was missing out on the boom of social networks and that she felt a little stagnant, and that’s when she decided to open a fan page with the name “Strada.”
“Before I opened my page, I had come to feel a lot of uncertainty and fear. I wondered – Who will read me? – What if they don’t like me? – What if they don’t like the content? – I had a thousand negative ideas in my head! But I never let fear get the better of me… Totally! What was the worst that could happen? (Always ask yourself that question when you feel doubt or fear) NOTHING! Maybe I would have just stopped writing, but I did not. Eventually, I got excellent feedback, so I grew my social networks until I created my blog, DRESS UP, LIVE UP.”
We talked a little more with this Mexican Girl to Watch; she told us about her passions, growth, and style.
Why did you decide to enter the fashion world?
My passion for fashion began when I was 11 or 12 years old. I dreamed of being a model, I loved watching the fashion shows on a program called FASHION TV, and I remember practicing in the mirror and laughing at my “poses” by myself.
I remember participating in 2 catwalks; the first was called “The Loren Burr Model,” and then I participated in a model casting to enter an agency in my city. They never accepted me because of my measurements and height; besides the agency, I remember they already had favorites. On that occasion, I realized that it was a significantly sacrificed job and was not what I thought.
Over time I continued to take courses in personality, makeup, and personal image in general. I always knew I wanted to study something related to fashion and appearance. Of course, without losing your values, principles, and ideals.
When you started your blog, were there already bloggers in the same place you live?
Yes, there were already some Mexican bloggers, but there wasn’t as much competition as now. I remember that there was a lot of talk about “Yuya,” but she is a YouTuber and “Andy Torres” with her blog “Stylescrapbook” (one of my favorite bloggers).
How does fashion develop in the city where you live?
In Puebla, the market is a little tricky compared to other states such as Mexico, Guadalajara, Monterrey, etc. But since 2-3 years ago, more projects are starting to take place, from conferences, workshops, workshops, and catwalks. It has also grown in terms of independent designers, stylists, makeup artists, and photographers.
In Puebla and in Mexico, there is a lot of talent, but there is a lack of support for local and national consumption; there is a lack of support among ourselves to make the industry grow and not just choose the same old ones. Unfortunately, there is a lot of favoritism and elitism… as in any country, in some, it is more than others.
What are the most critical events in the city and the country?
Once a year, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Mexico or MBFWMx is a platform that shows the best Mexican design and presents Spring/Summer – Fall/Winter collections, although many groups are already timeless.
“IM INTERMODAL” is the most critical platform in Latin America in the fashion industry, and Mexico is based in Guadalajara. Designers, buyers, and distributors gather in the same place to show the best trends to investors, potential clients, etc.
As in other fashion capitals, Mexico also hosts “Vogue Fashion Night Out,” a party-themed event where you can shop while enjoying music, food, and some bargains.
One of my favorites is “ELLE Working Girls,” organized by Elle Mexico magazine. Here several speakers share their experience as PR, Marketers, or Publicists of a national and international brands. In addition, the event has curricular value, and you get discounts for subscribing to the magazine.
Has your blog opened doors for you to meet new cities?
Yes, it has changed my outlook completely. I have had the opportunity to travel more and talk to people from other countries who also have the same passion for fashion. A year ago, I went to New York Fashion Week; it was my first time, and it has been one of the best experiences!
How do brands and designers treat bloggers in your city/country?
It has always been favorable, with respect, kindness, and education. Many Mexican brands almost always want to “collaborate” in exchange for mentions or tags in Instagram photos. I’m not against “collaborating”; it’s OK to do it occasionally, but not all my life.
If your blog is starting, of course, you will not get “diva” and want to get paid even in dollars, but if you already have a particular reputation and credibility, you should know how to negotiate your work.
TIP – Nothing is free in this life; we must know how to value and appreciate our work. If you don’t love what you do, no one else will.
What other activities do you do apart from being a blogger?
I am an Image Consultant. I have a brand named “Strada- Asesoría de Imagen,” where I teach courses in Personal Branding, Personal or Professional Image, and Social Networks, among others. I also have specific services such as Personal Shopper, Outfits Creation, and Self-makeup. Sometimes I also do advertising campaigns for hotels, designers, or local restaurants.
The truth is that I don’t like to dedicate myself to just one thing; I love to have versatility and try different things that take me out of my comfort zone.
In your opinion, how has fashion developed in your city in the last three years?
Compared to 3 years ago, the fashion and image industry has grown frequently. More and more people, public figures, and brands are concerned about their company’s perception or “image” on social media and in everyday life.
If we continue like this, they will take Puebla as an example of growth in avant-garde, fashion, design, art, and architecture in about five years.
Have you heard about Latin American fashion? What things?
Of course, I have! I have heard and seen amazing things. I recently had the opportunity to work with Fashion Radicals magazine in New York, and all the clothes that were worn were by Colombian and some Mexican designers; everything was beautiful. I am a fan of Colombian fashion, and one day, I am dying to go to Colombia Moda.
What do you like most about fashion?
I love the history, the concepts that emerge every day, the trends, and above all, seeing the campaigns or lookbooks of my favorite brands. I love that fashion inspires me!
How would you define your look?
I don’t know if it has any definition, hahaha I dress in many styles, but there is always a dramatic, creative, or risky touch. I love textures in clothes, oversize garments, and especially touches of color. MORE IS MORE <3
What do you want to project with this one?
It depends a lot on my daily activities. In general, I like to project an extroverted, charismatic, and creative personality without falling into the ridiculous; for example, when I teach a course or workshop, I look more professional than creative.
What is the must-have accessory in every fashion lover’s closet?
A good pair of stilettos, either black or nude, is essential! But otherwise, any color that you like and that makes you feel good is perfect.
What would you recommend to people when dressing?
How difficult! I am indecisive in these questions, having so many tips.
Feel confident and happy with themselves. NO garment will give you the value you provide yourself. If you feel comfortable and satisfied with your body, clothes will only be extra to make you look more impressive.
ALWAYS wear the right size, not too small, not too big. This way, you will avoid getting “fatties” that don’t exist but are marked by not using the right size of clothes. Underwear is super important.
Use colors when dressing. Colors positively affect those who look at them and those who wear them. Do not abuse the color black!
What are the following plans for your blog?
I would love my clothing store someday, but that will have to wait longer. For now, I want to keep making videos for my Youtube channel and lots of engaging content for my social networks. I have a campaign about LGBT visibility with bloggers/influencers from different countries. And my dream is to go again to Fashion Week New York or Fashion Week Miami, but God knows where he wants me this year; I’ll tell you more progress on my social networks!
