In March, Paris Hilton awarded Crop It Like It’s Hot a wildfire relief grant through her
SlivingForSmallBiz
initiative.
During the first weekend of the Coachella Music & Arts Festival, Paris Hilton showcased an Onyx Catsuit and Black Braided Shrug from Crop It Like It’s Hot. Many festival-goers may not have realized that her support prior to the event has significantly contributed to the success of this local rave garment designer.
Founded by Hana O’Connor, Crop It Like It’s Hot specializes in tiedye and braided clothing and was launched during the pandemic. However, Hana faced severe challenges, including having to halt operations in January due to the devastating Eaton Fire, which destroyed numerous homes in Southern California, including her own.
“Five years down the drain,” Hana shared with EDM Identity in an email. “I knew I couldn’t recover from that. I had invested thousands in inventory and equipment, and it was all gone. I feared I would have to find a ‘big girl job’ – a thought that felt like a death sentence. I didn’t want to leave the festival community.”
In late March, a glimmer of hope appeared when Hana received an email from Paris Hilton about her fire relief initiative,
SlivingForSmallBiz
, through her 11:11 Media nonprofit. This initiative awarded grants of up to $25,000 to 50 women business owners, and Hana was among the recipients, enabling her to relaunch Crop It Like It’s Hot.
“When I got the email last week, my heart was pounding in my chest and ears,” Hana expressed in an Instagram post. “Arguably louder than the bass from this weekend at Beyond Wonderland. I can’t wait to reopen.”
Before the festival weekend, the Onyx Catsuit had already been worn by influencers such as Hera Sfikas, Jami Jones, and Sami LeBlunt. Paris Hilton also has more outfits planned for upcoming events. “She has some additional pieces of mine set for Stagecoach and future festivals!” Hana shared. “I sent her five outfits, and she wants them in more colors after trying everything on!”
Coachella’s second weekend is scheduled for April 18-20. For those attending, keep an eye out for more vibrant tiedye and braided designs from Crop It Like It’s Hot.
