I left school at 15
I got a job as a trainee receptionist, which I really enjoyed, but everyone went to the pub at lunchtime and because I was so young I would sit on a park bench on my own and eat my sandwich, feeling sorry for myself! I was working long hours while my friends were still being teenagers, but I loved being able to treat myself.
I have learnt the value of money
I had just 80p in my bank account before going on Celebrity Big Brother [where she scooped £25,000 in prize money], so it was really nice afterwards to be able to shop in Topshop which, to me, was insane! I have made some extravagant purchases, but I was also sensible and invested most of it in my house.
Designer clothes weren’t my best investment
They are so dated that I can’t wear them now. I also regret buying one thing in every colour. Your style changes, so what I wore after CBB I wouldn’t be seen dead in now. I’ve kept the designer stuff, though, just in case it comes back into fashion.
Getting the best deal is a buzz
My latest bargain was a pair of Kurt Geiger boots – they were £200 down to £69 in the sale.
I made mistakes
I had stuff in storage for ten years, but realised I was paying loads of money for things I clearly didn’t need so I had everything delivered to my house. There was a pair of designer shoes that I’d worn twice and the label said they cost £870. I really question what I was doing back then – it’s ridiculous. Now, I wouldn’t dream of spending that kind of money on shoes.
Beauty products are my weakness
I bought a make-up course voucher from Wowcher the other day for £20. It’s at a place in Essex and is usually £550, which is insane, but it has a really good reputation. I spend a lot on skincare because your make-up never looks nice unless you look after your skin.
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I once had a ‘pretty woman’ moment
When I was married to [fellow CBB contestant] Preston [from 2006 to 2007], I went to buy an Alexander McQueen dress, which cost £3,500. The sales assistant looked at me like I couldn’t afford anything; I was just a ditzy blonde. She was so snotty that I randomly bought a belt at the counter that cost £500 just to prove a point. I’ve never worn it.
I used to spend loads on bottled water
Now I buy Sainsbury’s own-brand and it’s 25p for a litre. I’ll buy decent quality kitchen and toilet roll, but if I can get away with own-brands, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with it.
You can read more celebrity news in this week's Closer magazine - out now.