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How responsible are you with money — are you stingy, careless or too conservative?

Sometimes conservative, sometimes careless. It depends on what it is I'm spending the money on.

What is the worst thing you've done for money?

I never did odd jobs when I was growing up. The work that I did was in the entertainment industry, so they were all learning curves. I do remember, however, having to be a grid girl for the World Superbike Championships and I had to hold an umbrella for one of the racing drivers, wearing a tight leather suit on the hottest day of summer. I kept on thinking that this was the most ridiculous idea and he should rather be holding the umbrella for me.

What is the worst thing you have done with money?

Spent too much of it on silly things and never saved enough. When you're a kid everyone tells you to save, save, save, but never why or how. Not enough people actually start saving money until it's too late.

Have you ever been "summoned" by your bank manager?

Yes, my private banker called me to ask if that amount of fashion and travel is necessary. What a question.

If you could buy a house anywhere in the world, where would you choose to live?

Just up the road from where I currently live. There's the most beautiful home down the road from my penthouse in Cape Town.

Do you carry cash, or do you prefer plastic money?

A debit card. I believe cash is king. Credit card charges and interest rates are ridiculous, so I prefer to not have that unnecessary added expense. A debit card is safe and convenient.

How do you tip? Are you an easy tipper, or do they have to work hard for it?

I always tip a standard 10% to 15%, but if the work is great then I will always tip more.

Do you believe in personal financial advisers? Do you have one?

Yes, I do. I am not an expert in financial matters, so for me to understand it better — so that I can earn more and be financially strong — I need sound financial advice from the best. Asking me for finance advice would be like asking me to play in Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake.

What is the most expensive item you have ever bought?

My home, but until I pay off my bond it still belongs to the bank. As Mark Twain said: "Buy land, they're not making more of it." Property is still, in my opinion, the best investment.

If money was not an issue, what is the most expensive item you would buy for yourself?

The original Aston Martin DB5 that was used in the Bond movie Goldfinger.

What is your most treasured possession?

A gorgeous rose-gold vintage watch that was given to me by my grandmother. It was a gift to her from my grandfather when she was only 16 years old.

How did your childhood experience influence your attitude to money?

I was taught that if you want something in life you have to work for it. I work hard so that I can always be financially independent.

How does your profession influence the way you deal with your personal finances?

My profession might influence me to spend more because I'm always surrounded by gorgeous homes, glamorous dresses and expensive jewellery.

Do you have a monthly budget? How often are you over your budget?

Well, my boyfriend likes to give me a budget every month ... whether I read it or not is a different story.

How do you invest your money and what do you invest it in?

I invest in property for now and other business ventures that I'm involved in, such as the cosmetic company that makes my perfume, Jeannie in a Bottle.

Should you be given R5m now, how would you like to spend it?

I would buy property.

• This article was first published in Sunday Times: Business Times