‘I’M A SPENDER – NOT A SAVER!’

Former TOWIE star Frankie Essex, 31, spills her money secrets, including Gucci splurges and why she won’t budge on her favourite brand of baked beans…

MY FIRST JOB WAS AT A CHILDREN’S CHARITY

I worked at Sunny Days Children’s Fund [a charity that supports children with a range of health conditions] as an administrator. Reading letters from parents was tough, as their children were often very poorly, but it was lovely to help people. I then went on to work in Canary Wharf in London for a business centre, before starting on TOWIE when I was 23.

I BOUGHT THE EXACT SAME BOOTS TWICE!

I forgot, went back and bought them again and by the time I realised, I had already worn both pairs so I couldn’t return one. I have no idea how I managed to do that – they were £70 from Dune too, so it’s not like they were just a pair of flip flops! At least they’ll last me a few years now and I can switch when one pair has worn out.

IF I WON THE LOTTERY...

I’d spoil my dad and brother [former TOWIE co-star Joey Essex] with an amazing watch or car each. I’d buy my nan, my cousin [former TOWIE co-star Chloe Sims] and her daughter something really special and treat myself to amazing houses both in the UK and in Spain or Portugal, as they’re both such lovely places to go on holiday and not too far to fly. I love the idea of a home in the US, but it’s hard to get a visa. I’ve been to LA, Chicago, Las Vegas and New York, but want to explore more.

I AM LOYAL TO HEINZ!

I buy a mix of branded and supermarket own-brands. Marks & Spencer cleaning products are amazing and so cheap. But when it comes to ketchup and beans, it has to be Heinz for me.

BOOKING HOLIDAYS IS MONEY WELL SPENT

I want to do more city breaks, but luxury is key for me when I travel. I’m older now so if I go away I want to fully enjoy it, so I’ll always book somewhere nice to stay. I’ve just been away to Tenerife, and Bali is next on my travel wish list!

MORTGAGE AND BILLS ASIDE, I SPEND MY MONEY ON HOLIDAYS AND MEALS OUT

I eat out a lot. I love luxury restaurants but also cheaper places – it depends how I’m feeling. I’d go to Sheesh in Chigwell, Essex, for a nice dinner, or for something cheaper I love Wagamama or YO! Sushi.

I’VE TREATED MYSELF TO A GUCCI HANDBAG

I’m definitely a spender rather than a saver – you have to treat yourself. The bag was £760, whoops! But it’s so beautiful and will last for years.

I LOVE SHOPPING AT PRETTY LITTLE THING

I love online shopping because everything is at your fingertips. My favourite website is Pretty Little Thing as you can always get something cheap and cheerful and the fashion is always on point.