From novelty trinkets to surprise dinner tabs, the actress opens up about embracing her quirks, post-show style advice, and the sweet pleasure of shared experiences
Fresh off filming the latest season of HBO’s The White Lotus, Aimee Lou Wood is embracing not just her rising star status, but also a new perspective on self-care — starting with her wardrobe. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 31-year-old actress candidly revealed how her agent gave her a rather unexpected note following the shoot: it was time to go on a shopping spree.
“I think I need to go and treat myself more,” Wood shared. “My agent said this to me the other day. I came in and I looked so scruffy, and she was like, ‘Maybe you should just go and have a shopping spree,’ and it will probably feel really fun and good.”
Though she may have charmed viewers with her onscreen presence, Wood admits her financial indulgences are far more whimsical than fashion-focused. Rather than splurging on designer bags or lavish jewelry, the Emmy-winning Sex Education alum confessed to a penchant for what she calls “novelty household things,” including the adorably impractical: “tiny miniature toy mice that I think are sweet.”
“I usually just spend my money on such silly things,” she laughed. “They’re cute but kind of pointless.”
Despite her reluctance to invest in high-fashion statements, Wood acknowledged that a wardrobe refresh might be in order — and even something to look forward to. “It is really cool when you can do that,” she said. “I remember buying my first MacBook, and that was a moment for me. It felt like a big step.”
Wood’s grounded, playful attitude toward money didn’t go unnoticed by her White Lotus co-star Patrick Schwarzenegger, who praised her for her generosity — and her sneaky way of treating others. “She just took Abby [Champion] and me out for a very nice dinner in London,” he said. “She did the old, ‘I’m going to the bathroom’ trick and paid for the bill. It was so sweet.”
Their interview, which coincided with a promotional partnership with Venmo, offered rare insight into how the pair think about spending. For both actors, the priority isn’t luxury goods — it’s experiences. Schwarzenegger noted, “I’m not a big item person, but I do love experiences. I love going out to great meals with people. That’s where I splurge — picking up the bill and making memories.”
While Wood may have gotten a nudge toward style upgrades, her sincerity and sense of fun remain untouched. Whether she’s investing in tiny trinkets or memorable nights out, she’s spending on joy — and bringing others along for the ride.
