It's been a busy few months for Sam Faiers - not only has The Only Way is Essex star been working towards the launch of her new fragrance La Bella, she has also been recovering after being diagnosed with Crohn's disease in February. "I lost a lot of weight when I was unwell," she told HELLO! Online. "I'm back to just under 9 stone now, which was the weight I was at before I went on Big Brother. I want to maintain it and stay trim for the summer!"
"I haven't stopped eating or anything like that," she added. "I love my food too much to diet! I am good at cutting out carbs and alcohol, but I can't cut out something altogether. I just make sure I eat everything in moderation. It's easier for me to do, because I like all food - I'll eat anything!" The gorgeous blonde added that, despite her illness, she didn't have to make 'drastic' changes to her diet and fitness routines. "There's certain things I can't eat but it's about trial and error," she revealed. "I'm still learning about Crohn's myself, but it's not drastic changes. As soon as I started feeling better, exercising wasn't a problem, and the doctors said it was fine to continue with my routine."
Scroll below for Sam's beauty regime and sister Billie's pregnancy
I get my hair done professionally instead of doing it myself. The hairstyle I choose depends on what I'm wearing. I like an updo with a floor-length gown, but if my dress is simple then I go for lots of volume! For my skin, I spend more time exfoliating and moisturising, then I put on body shimmer. I love a polished look!
What are your top three beauty essentials for a night out?My eyelashes, a good lipstick or lipgloss, and my hairbrush. I never go out without my hairbrush. It's great for quick touch-ups!
What's your favourite beauty product?I use loads of different brands, I don't really stick to one thing - I'm always buying new products and trying new things. I mix designer and high street brands. I love Rimmel and L'Oreal, but then I also have a great Laura Mercier foundation. I love experimenting with eyeshadow, although Billie is much better at eye makeup than I am. When we were younger, she'd do my eyes and I'd do her hair. We don't do that anymore though!
What style will you be going for this summer?I know what I like, I'm a real girly-girl and I love pastels and skirts for the summer. I try and have a lot of affordable fashion, because I love trying out new looks. Sometimes I push myself out of my comfort zone but to me, it's more important to be comfortable. Otherwise, you don't feel confident. I have a Burberry coat which is my absolute favourite piece. It goes with everything, it's so easy to wear. It was a present from Billie, I think I'll keep it forever!
What made you want to do a perfume?Growing up I always had fragrances, I love perfume. The name 'La Bella' means something to me, because I grew up in Spain. It's a home from home. I wanted to be really involved in the bottle and packaging, because I want it to appeal to everyone, from teens to mums and grans!
Is Billie getting nervous about her due date?I think she's more excited! The nursery's done and her hospital bag is ready, so it's all coming together. I've already bought the baby loads of little presents, I'm definitely going to be an aunt who spoils her! I bought her a Chloe dress and some little Dior silk pram shoes, which I love. Billie's bought loads as well, and she had a baby shower and got loads of presents then!
