Jennifer Hudson once paid $1,000 for a safety pin.

The 34-year-old actress - who grew up in Chicago's Englewood neighbourhood which has a high poverty rate - admitted her family were horrified when she spent the exorbitant amount on the pin.

She told the New York Post newspaper: ''A few years back I bought a big safety pin from LF for $1,000, and I bought it because it was beautiful and I loved it.

''But when I got back home to Chicago my purchase became a major house debate - my family could not believe that I paid that much money for a safety pin.''

However, Jennifer admitted that her family members do have expensive tastes and have happily helped themselves to some of her designer handbags, although she doesn't mind.

Jennifer said: ''A few Chanel bags have gone missing. But when I ask for them to return it, I will keep the old one and buy them a new one.''

Meanwhile, Jennifer - who lost an astonishing 80lbs on Weight Watchers - says looking after her five-year-old son keeps her fit.

She previously explained: ''In the summertime, I like to do outdoor activities with my son like bike riding, playing basketball or skating. Big David [her fiancé David Otunga] and I are very active parents.''