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NORTH ATTLEBORO - Nikki Blonsky wants to be different.

That's not always something you hear from an 18-year-old, but this year's big breakout star - thanks to a head-turning performance in the remake of "Hairspray" - has every reason to embrace the things that make her unique.

"That's what 'Hairspray' was about, and that's what I'm about," said Blonsky, who was greeted with smiles and applause as she hosted Torrid's model search for plus-size divas at Emerald Square mall on Saturday. "I'm so excited to be different, and to show people that different is beautiful."

Blonsky, an unknown until landing one of the most coveted musical roles for a young woman, has come by fame fast.

She beat out thousands for the role of Tracy Turnblad, a plus-size teen queen who tries to break into the afternoon dance world, which is dominated by pretty faces and petite figures. Originally a 1988 cult film that starred Ricki Lake in the star role, "Hairspray" became a Broadway musical in 2002, and the movie adaptation of the musical was released this summer.

Blonsky famously was still scooping ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery in her hometown of Great Neck, N.Y. - and preparing to star in a high school musical - when she got the big news that took her life from ordinary teenager to extraordinary in one year.

Her first movie role put her opposite John Travolta, who starred as Tracy's mom, Edna, in drag, and working with Hollywood heavyweights Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken and Queen Latifah, among others, and has obviously put her into the up-and-coming spotlight.

She's been working the red carpet, making the talk-show rounds, and, a personal favorite she says, having dinner with former "Will & Grace" star Sean Hayes.

Next up is her second movie, "Harold," a high school comedy, in which she plays the nerdy best friend of a balding teen. The movie also stars Spencer Breslin, Ally Sheedy and Cuba Gooding Jr., and was shot in her hometown.

Tonight, she'll be presenting at the Teen Choice Awards - for best male breakout performance - where "Hairspray" is also up for an award.

Before she got into hosting duties, The Sun Chronicle sat down with Blonsky - and her stylist, Eric Hollis, to talk about promoting differences, her new-found fame, and, oh yeah, Travolta.

The Sun Chronicle: How did you get involved with Torrid?

Blonsky: When I started going to premieres and testing out my styles, Torrid was one label where everything I put on was cute and comfortable, and that I love. I started wearing them so much on the red carpet that it's a pleasure for me to be here. The main issue was that everything for plus-size women I found was older looking. I want to look 18.

The Sun Chronicle: How would you describe your personal style? Blonsky: It is some that is ever-changing. I love to experiment with all kinds of things. It's what looks good on shape and frame.

The Sun Chronicle: Do you feel it's important, as a plus-size actress, to be open about that for other women?

Blonsky: That's what I'm about, that every race, nationality and shape is beautiful. And Torrid gives plus-size girls an opportunity to be beautiful and feel sexy.

The Sun Chronicle: Everyone wants to know, what is John Travolta like?

Blonsky: He's the greatest guy in the world. He really took me under his wing, and it was so much fun.

The Sun Chronicle: What about your next project? What was that cast like?

Blonsky: Cuba Gooding Jr. is so funny. That man had me laughing every second. I really, really adore him. And my younger brother, Joey, 13, is in it.

The Sun Chronicle: Have you met anyone famous so far where it was an 'Oh my gosh' moment?

Blonsky: One my favorites was Adam Sandler. And when I was sitting next to Oprah, I was like, "Really?" And I had dinner with Sean Hayes. He's my favorite. And I was sitting there, replaying every ("Will & Grace") episode in my head.

The Sun Chronicle: Any fashion tips for plus-size girls?

Hollis: Depending on your shape, appropriate lines can accentuate the shape. Instead of belting, have an empire waist top; it's all about height and form-fitting shapes. Nikki is great to dress, and Torrid is for all ages, shapes and sizes. It's so trendy and (well) priced.

REBECCA KEISTER can be reached at 508-236-0336 or at rkeister@thesunchronicle.com.