Nicole Richie is cleaning out her closet. Us has learned that, on November 14, the Simple Life star axed her personal stylist (and close confidante) of more than two years, Rachel Zoe. The reason? The size-0 Richie, 25, “wanted to surround herself with positive people and influences,” an insider says.

Apparently that didn’t include the controversial fashionista, 35, who has long been accused of promoting unhealthy body images (her roster of stick-thin clients includes Mischa Barton and Lindsay Lohan, both 20).

“Nicole didn’t trust Rachel anymore,” a Richie pal says of the firing. “Zoe didn’t take the news well.”

Zoe’s rep denies this, adding that the split was amicable.

In her place, Richie has hired Cristina Ehrlich – who has dressed Jessica Biel and Penelope Cruz – to pick an outfit for the November 21 American Music Awards, where the actress has been asked to introduce a performance by dad Lionel Richie.

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