The picture of Paris Hilton donning a shirt with the audacious assertion “Stop Being Poor” has been a cultural reference for years. It appeared to encapsulate the extravagant and opulent spirit of the early 2000s, with Hilton, the epitome of a rich heiress and socialite, seemingly telling the world to depart poverty behind. However because it seems, the notorious vogue second by no means truly occurred.

Paris Hilton attends the Chanel Cruise 2023/2024 Trend Present.(Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

In a latest Instagram Reels video, Hilton took it upon herself to debunk the parable surrounding the viral picture. Together with her signature aptitude, full with a crown emoji, she captioned the video, “Debunking the #STOPBEINGPOOR myth. 🙅🏼♀️😹 Don’t believe everything you read. 😏 #Iconic 👑” Within the clip, Hilton units the file straight, stating, “I never wore that shirt. This was completely photoshopped. Everyone thinks this is real.” She then proceeds to disclose a real image of herself and her sister Nicky, the place the shirt truly reads, “Stop Being Desperate.” It seems that the design was a part of Nicky’s clothes line, Chick, launched again in 2005.

Hilton’s revelation comes amidst her efforts to reclaim her public picture in latest months. In September 2020, she courageously launched the uncooked documentary “This Is Paris,” shedding gentle on the abuse she endured throughout her time at a boarding college for troubled teenagers. The documentary delves into the problems of habits and psychological well being which have formed her life. Following within the footsteps of celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski, Hilton is taking again management over the media narratives surrounding her.

In late April, Ratajkowski made headlines by itemizing an NFT (non-fungible token) model of {a photograph} of herself at Christie’s public sale home. The {photograph} had beforehand been appropriated and bought by artist Richard Prince for a staggering $90,000. Ratajkowski’s transfer was a symbolic act of reclaiming her personal picture and giving a voice to a scenario wherein she had beforehand lacked management.

On a lighter observe, for those who have been one of many many who believed the “Stop Being Poor” shirt was actual, do not be too laborious on your self. Given Hilton’s historical past of carrying daring and brazen statements on her clothes, it was fully plausible. Who may neglect her iconic pink shirt with “That’s Hot” emblazoned on the entrance and “You’re Not” on the again? Hilton has all the time been synonymous with excessive vogue selections of the 2000s, from midriff-baring outfits to slinky ensembles. And let’s not neglect her enduring love for Juicy tracksuits, a glance that is still unquestionably iconic.

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Whereas the “Stop Being Poor” shirt could have been a fabrication, it serves as a reminder of the affect and impression of viral moments in shaping public notion. Hilton’s revelation showcases the ability of celebrities to problem and proper false narratives, as they take management of their very own tales in an period outlined by media scrutiny and manipulation.