Model Kate Upton, best known for what she looks like in a bikini, has told Elle magazine that a cross tattoo she had inked on an inside finger is a symbol of her faith that she wants to carry with her at all times.
The 21-year-old mega model told Elle she was once mocked about wearing jewelry with a cross symbol, reported the New York Daily News.
"I was at a photo shoot, and I was wearing a cross necklace that my mom bought me, and somebody made a joke like 'Why are you wearing a cross?'" Upton told Elle for its September issue which will be on newsstands Aug. 20. "And then they took (my necklace) away. I was really affected by that. The whole thing made me realize that I do want (a cross) with me, at all times."
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According to the Daily News, Upton said to Elle that reminder of her faith has come in handy because men have formed a certain opinion of her since gaining fame as the cover girl of iconic Sports Illustrated's February swimwear issue in 2012.
"Every single guy I met was either married or about to be married, and I felt like I was their bachelor present or something," said Upton. "I'm not a toy; I'm a human. I'm not here to be used. I am a grown woman, and you need to figure your s--t out."
Fox News said Upton opened up a little about rumors she is dating "Dancing With the Stars" mainstay Maksim Chmerkovskiy.
"I really have never had a serious relationship in the industry," said Upton. "I'm just having fun. Obviously I have a very busy schedule at this time in my life, and I don't put relationships as a priority."
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Upton is the niece of Michigan Republican U.S. Rep. Fred Upton and in June she celebrated part of her birthday with her uncle during a fundraiser in New York City. She refers to the Michigan legislator as simply "Uncle Fred," according to the
National Journal.
House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy tweeted out an
Instagram picture of him next to the Uptons at the fundraiser and impromptu birthday celebration.
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