In my massive box of polishes Jess sent over were all but one of the OPI Burlesque Collection, however I managed to track down the missing one on my end. I have never really gotten whole collections where there are more then a half dozen polishes before because to either buy them here, or in an online store and get them shipped is usually way too expensive, especially if you consider the one or two duds that a large collections invariably contains. The Burlesque Collection is a rarity in that I can't see a single dud in there.

I've decided to start off the swatching with the one I reached for straight away - The Show Must Go On.

It is a deep pinky-red, perhaps a dark coral more so then pink with a stunning gold duochrome to it. I was having a really hard time capturing that in these images. Scrangie managed to get some decent photos of the colour, but I think she was having issues capturing the gold as well. It is really noticeable in person, both in the bottle and on the nail.

A stunning, stunning colour. Like the rest of the non-glitter colours in this collection, this one has the glass fleck like effect that is produced by what I think is a large particle shimmer throughout the polish. It comes out all kinds of sparkly on your nails and the colour is simply to die for.

Before any of you ask - Is this a dupe for MAC Bad Fairy? I have swatched them side by side (but didn't take photos for some stupid reason) and they are similar in that they are both redish based polishes with strong gold duochrome to them but that's about it.
Bad Fairy uses a much darker red base from what I can tell and the gold shimmer is much more obvious in it. The MAC polish is like being punched in the face with duochrome and can often give the polish a orange tone at a quick glace whereas TSMGO has a much more subtle gold flash. It is most definitely there, but it is not so in your face and you can tell at all times that it is meant to be a primarily red based polish.

This a full mani with two coats of TSMGO, one coat of Seche and a cute butterfly decal in between. Please excuse the tip wear, I had been wearing this one for a couple of days before I took any photos. 

If you haven't already, please enter my Christmas/ New Year Giveaway. I added a 6 pack of polishes from UNT Skincare yesterday and there will be more prizes going up soon.

That's it from me today,

Be awesome to each other.

I've just realised that I haven't shown you guys anything at all that I got from the Disney Villians collection, which is heaps. I'll work on fixing that over the weekend. Promise.

Here is the first of the polishes and some dodgy photos. I don't know why I didn't check these before I took the polish off, so I will reswatch these eventually. It was a pita trying to capture the colours in this one. The duochrome would just not place nice with my camera.

It reflects a reddish purple, blue, violet and teal that I can see. I've seen pictures that shows this polish as a dead on dupe for Orly Galaxy Girl, so it might be healthier for your bank balance to buy the Orly version. Still an awesome polish though. 

My new Ozotics polish giveaway is up and running. Enter here for your chance to get you hands on some HTF Aussie gems!

Short and sweet, but that's it from me today.

Be awesome to each other.

Ok, so here we go with part three - the Maybelline Mascaras.

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Mascara

RRP - $15.95 AUD

What it is supposed to do – This zero clump mascara creates stunning length with clean definition. Ophthalmologist tested, contact lens safe. Washable; also available in waterproof formula. (http://www.maybelline.com.au/)

Does it? – This was one of the very first mascaras I ever purchased, well not this tube specifically, that would just be gross. I tend to get the soft black colour which is more grey then black. The brush is incredibly flexible and has short rubbery bristles which allow you to get product from the root of the last all the way to the end. It's very user friendly and it is a constant favourite for me, living in my handbag alongside my Rimmel Max Volume Flash.

Verdict – For me, this is a perfect learner mascara. It's wand is flexible allowing you to get to the lashes normally hard to get to, the formula is quite thin which means no clumps and it defines the lashes without the mess of a volume enhancing mascara. This is a mascara I have repurchased about 5 times and will continue to do so.

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Volume Mascara

RRP – $15.95AUD

What it is supposed to do – This zero clump volumising mascara creates voluptuous volume with clean definition. Patented shaped-to-the-lash brush. Ophthalmologist tested, Contact lens safe, washable. (http://www.maybelline.com.au/)

Does it? – I originally bought this one not long after I got the Length one. Honestly, the difference between the two is slight at best. This one has a slightly thicker formula, same brush, so I still love that.

Verdict – The two Define-A-Lash mascaras are very similar, close enough to not require a person to own both. I have both because they are different colours.

Maybelline Pulse Perfection

RRP – $19.95AUD

What it is supposed to do – It’s our first vibrating mascara. Transforms your lashes to perfection. Patent-pending elastomer brush vibrates 7,000 times per stroke. Provides clump-free definition, intense color, and shine. Available in a Waterproof and Regular formula. Builds lash volume, length, and adds curl. Buildable formula. Ideal for All Skin Types. Contact lens safe. (http://www.maybelline.com.au/)

Does it? – Biggest. Gimmick. Ever. I hate this mascara. It is the standard Maybelline mascara formula, which means that I would probably like it if they hadn't tried to trick me into thinking it was something it's not. Having to keep you finger on the button that makes the wand vibrate is annoying and makes it hard to maneuver. I constantly worry that the vibrations will cause me to stab myself in the eye. When you make contact with the root of your lash it makes the mascara go EVERYWHERE. You also have to hold the button down quite firmly so all the vibrations are absorbed by your hand, try to hold it loosely and your wand is uncontrollable and either way your hand aches So instead of making mascara easier to apply, it actually makes it much more work than it should ever be. Stupid product. Never every buy it. You will regret it. The brush is almost the same as the Define-A-Lash ones but less bendy.

Verdict - Do not buy this mascara. Total waste of money and there is a good chance you will stab yourself in the eye(or maybe that's just me?). Shame on you Maybelline for ruining your reputation of fairly decent mascaras with this shoddy piece of shoddyness. Oh yes, one more thing – when that wand is vibrating, it is damn near impossible to separate the lashes. Nasty mess.

Maybelline Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara

RRP – $19.95AUD

What it is supposed to do – The only mascara that does for lashes what stilettos do for legs. The Grip & Extend brush grasps each lash and coats from every angle. Elastic formula stretches lashes for provocative length. Pro-Vitamin B-5 formula conditions and strengthens and delivers black-patent shine. Contact lens safe and Ophthalmologist tested. (http://www.maybelline.com.au/)

Does it? – It does indeed make your lashes long, although I don't know about the shine claim. Anyway, wouldn't shiny lashes be weird? The brushing is slightly conical, which is interesting, but it allows you to get to the tine lashes on the inner eye without any issues. It allows even distribution of product, which is always a product. Absolutely lengthens with no clumps, so no complaints here.

Verdict – I quite like this mascara, it does everything it is supposed to except for the shiny lashes, which no one really wants anyway. A notable change in length, and a tiny bit of volume. A good buy.

So there you go. Clearly the dud of the bunch is the Pulse Perfection Mascara. I guess the big question here is "Do I hate it as much as that bloody Napoleon Perdis one?". I'm going with no. While it is one of the stupidest things I have ever had the misfortune of buying, it does not make me completely angry to the point where is it irrational with it's crapness like Madame Curl Curl does. So Napoleon, you still hold on to your very inauspicious award of Crappest. Mascara. Ever.

Don't understand why the NP mascara is the work of Satan? Read part 1 here and part 2 here.

You can enter my polish giveaway here.

That's it from me today.

Be awesome to each other.

I was so excited to see that yesterday's part 1 of the mascara comparison got such good feedback. The post took ages to do, so to hear from you guys that it was interesting and/or helpful meant so much to me, so much in fact that I decided to post part 2 today.

Today we are looking at some Rimmel mascaras. I actually don't really have any issues with any of these ones, unlike yesterday's contenders, which were all caca.

These are the mascaras that I will be reviewing today. All easily accessible I believe. It's interesting, I am not a huge fan of pretty much anything else Rimmel does, but for some reason, I am just loving their mascaras. There is just something so right about them.

Rimmel 3 Looks Adjustable Volume Mascara

RRP – $14.95AUD

What it is supposed to do - Breakthrough adjustable volume mascara – 3 settings for 3 glam looks in 1 mascara! To choose the look you want, hold the bottle in one hand and turn the center part of the pack following the arrow, then pull out the brush: Turn to 1: up to 3x more volume*, for chic day-time volume Turn to 2: up to 5x more volume*, for more voluptuous volume Turn to 3: up to 10x more volume*, for dramatic volume *scientifically validated in vitro on eyelashes. (http://www.rimmellondon.com/AU/products/eyes/Mascaras/1%2c2%2c3+LOOKS+Mascara.aspx)

Does it? – Absolutely. I'm not entirely sure how accurate the 3x, 5x, 10x volume thing is, but it's a definitely noticeable change in the amount of mascara on the eye. The brush is different to what I am used to – chunkier, the bristles are a little...odd. Not a bad thing, just took a little getting used to in order to apply the product the way it should be. The pictures about show Vol 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

Verdict – Not a mascara for beginners as it could end up a great big mess in the wrong hands. But if you stick to the instructions, the results are worth it. The only thing about this one that I find fault with (through no fault of their own) is the fact that they have a huge warning on the tube that says "USAGE ADVICE: DIAL BETWEEN LEVELS 3 AND 1. DO NOT FORCE DIAL BEYOND THE STOP! SIGN.". That just makes me wonder what would really happen if I turned it further? It has been hard for me not to just do it, especially when they put the warning in capitals. Lol. Warn me against something and I will want to do it. Wet paint anyone?

Rimmel Sexy Curves Mascara

RRP – $17.95AUD

What it is supposed to do – Fuller figured brush – fuller figured lashes. Curves in all the right places! The first Triple Plump brush with 3 x the curves for 70% curlier lashes*. Voluptuous brush with CurveControl technology wiggles easily through your lashes quickly coating them. Exclusive brush design curves IN to maximize lash loading, curves OUT to curl and de-clump each lash for a complete curved look. Lashes look lusciously curled, plumped and defined. *scientifically validated as an average result of tests on lashes. (http://www.rimmellondon.com/AU/products/eyes/Mascaras/Sexy+Curves+Lash+plumping%2c+full+curve+mascara.aspx)

Does it? – The mascara formula is smooth and clump free and allows for easy application. I quite like the wand; it's different to any other I have used. Rimmel refers to it a "Triple Plump Brush" but I think it looks like bubbles. They work to curl the lashes up by allowing the user easy movement between the bristles and lashes. The close packed bristles make sure the result is clump free, which makes me a happy, happy girl.

Verdict – BIG fan of this mascara. As anyone who has read any of my previous makeup posts would know, I do use this one frequently. It's really good it you want to coat your lashes, curl a little, but don't want the chunky, thick mascara look that usually accompanies this. It's a natural looking mascara that is great for everyday use and can be used as a going out mascara when you add a few more coats.

Rimmel Max Volume Flash Mascara

RRP – $14.95AUD

What it is supposed to do – Our BIGGEST BRUSH EVER with unique ‘Perfect Fit’ technology for perfect loading of each lash. No clumps. 14 x lash volume* with no clumps. 10 seconds flat! *scientifically validated invitro on eyelashes. (http://www.rimmellondon.com/AU/products/eyes/Mascaras/Volume+Flash+The+MAX.aspx)

Does it? – This one is a really good volumising mascara. Sometimes I find that mascaras that are meant to add volume make the lashes feel heavy and dry – not this one. It does the job so well, is incredibly light, feels natural, easy to remove and incredibly moisturising for my lashes. I am not entirely sure that it is supposed to do that, but it totally does. On another note, I really like the brush on this one. I have no idea why, it doesn't actually look any different to most brushes. I keep all the ones from my empties, clean them and then store them to brush out the clumps in other mascaras. I find it works much better than the actual brushes that are sold to do the same thing. Just make sure you clean them well each time after you do it. It's awesome because the bristle just spring right back into place no matter how rough you are with it.

Verdict – I think anyone who has been to this blog before knows of my love for this mascara. I love it, and yes, it is one of the ones that live in my handbag. I have one in my bag and one in my bathroom – I love it that much.

Rimmel Max Volume Flash Bold Curves Mascara

RRP – $15.50AUD

What it is supposed to do – 14X more volume and up to 70% lift. Rimmel's biggest Bold-Lift brush featuring Perfect-Fit technology: flexible bristles fit to the lash and coat perfectly for extreme volume and lift. Formula enriched with Collagen to fatten lashes and Keratin to strengthen lashes. (http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=2218825&productId=xlsImpprod2360045&navAction=push&navCount=1&categoryId=cat80040&CAWELAID=548306516#details)
**I would also like to share the instructions that Ulta so thoughtfully provided on their site. Apply to lashes as needed. Do not poke eye. Yep, takes a special kind of person to write instructions like that. **

Does it? – This is basically the same as the Max Volume Flash above but with a curved wand. Napoleon Perdis could take a lead out of Rimmels book on how to do a curved wand that provides even distribution of product with no waste. It provides smooth even application and looks pretty much the same as the Max Volume Flash with a bit of curve.

Verdict – This one is still new to me, but seeing as it is basically a curvy version of the pink tube, I think it is safe to say this one will be a staple of my makeup bag for a while to come. I wonder what the brush on this one will be like to reuse when the tube is empty? Something to look forward to.

Ok, that's today's comparisons. I think this one should be more helpful to everyone as Rimmel is an easily accessible brand to most people. I would think quite a few of you also have these mascaras? Care to share your own experiences?

Please make sure you enter my Wonderland and Cracking polishes giveaway here.

That's it from me today.

Be awesome to each other.

I have been asked quite a few times now if I could do a comparison of mascaras. I finally got around to doing it. I've had to break it up into four or five parts because I have so many. I didn't realise that I did, but now that I think about it, it sounds about right.


I am a self confessed mascara junkie, I need to try every new one out, see if the gimmicks are just that and to see if I might stumble across the Holy Grail of mascara. I am the kind of girl who takes advantage of the buy two from one brand get one free so I can get three different kinds even if I don't need any at all. This does lead to a lot of waste as I do throw my mascaras out after a couple of months because it's really not hygienic to keep them longer. My mascara hoarding does mean that I am never without a new tube though, so that's cool.

I'm going to show you what I have at the moment, it's actually a little embarrassing, truth be told.
Yep, all of them. Can you tell which ones have been living in the bottom of my handbag? First person to guess correctly gets a brand new unopened mascara sent to them - although I don't know which kind I am willing to part with but I promise it will be one of the good ones! (Hint - there are two mascaras.)

Today I am going to show you these ones.

First up here are a couple of pics of my lashes naked. I realise you don't see many makeup blogs with pics not involving makeup, so please bear with me and don't run from the hills at the sight of my makeup less face. Lol.

Wow, that macro leaves nothing to the imagination. The little dusty looking bits on my lashes is just mineral foundation I used to even out my skin tone for the pics. Lol. Not lash lice. I don't even know if that is a real thing.



First cab off the rank is Peep Show Madame Curl Curl by Napoleon Perdis.


Left eye has mascara, right does not for easy comparison.

RRP - $33AUD

What it is supposed to do - Madame Curl Curl is the ultimate eye-opener, seductively bending the will of the most stubborn lash and delivering an eye-enhancing curl which lasts throughout the day. Her super-flexible film both lengthens and lifts while she coaxes lashes into good health with a dose of much needed moisture. (http://www.napoleonperdis.com/Shop/c-34-mascara.aspx)

Does it? - Pfft, no. This is a horrible mascara and I regret the day I caved and bought it. I hate the formula, it is messy, thick and all around nasty. I hate the brush. It's curved, but that's not the problem, the problem is, the tube doesn't remove the excess product from the curve and it comes out with way to much. Much like this.

This leads to uneven distribution even after you wipe off the excess, massive amounts of wasted product and mascara EVERYWHERE!

It does not curl like advertised. I used an eyelash curler in the pics before applying the mascara, like I do with all my mascaras. It also starts flaking off everywhere towards the end of the day.

Verdict - Clumpy mess, greatly overpriced and horrible to use. Would never EVER repurchase or recommend to anyone else. In these pictures I actually had to take a brush to my eyelashes and push the lashes down with my finger through the bristles to separate the lashes at all. It seriously looked like I had 4 ridiculously fat lashes beforehand and I just couldn't stand it.

Lashlight in Black Vinyl by Too Faced


RRP - $25USD

What it is supposed to do - LASHLIGHT's exclusive light-up wand spotlights every lash for the perfect mascara application every time. LASHLIGHT is formulated to thicken, lengthen, and condition while coating lashes with the glossiest of jet-black finishes to make eyes look brighter, whiter, and camera ready. The patented formula contains millions of microscopic mirrors that bounce light off lashes for the deepest, jet-black finish that lasts all day. (http://www.toofaced.com/product_template.asp?dept_sub_id=14&dept_id=3&cat_id=145)

Does it? - I found this to be comparable to the most basic mascaras I have come across. There is nothing special I could see about the formula, the wand is standard. It has LED lights built into the wand which is cool, but angle the wand the wrong way around your eyes and you get temporarily blinded by the brightness. The lights are also useless unless there is a power outage, in which case, you won't need to apply it because no one is going to see you. The handle is bulky and not overly user friendly either.


Verdict - Not worth the money. The lights are unnecessary and the formula and wand is similar to that you could find on a very cheapie brand mascara (ie crappy) you find in discount stores. I would not recommend this product.




Cils Design Pro by Lancome Paris

RRP - $35USD

What it is supposed to do - Contains 2 mascaras in one to produce best effect. One side defines & lengthens lashes and other side adds volumes to lashes. With Mini Comb to reach lashes in corner & bottom. Gives your eyes a glamorous shinny long look. (http://www.cosmeticamerica.com/lc2405685-01.html)

Does it? - I found the only thing this mascara did was clump my lashes big time. The second brush, the "Custom Design Lash Effect" one was hard to maneuver and seemed to little other then group my lashes together. Not attractive. The formula on this one and stings my eyes and I def do not fall under the sensitive eye category. I applied it and had a "It burns, save me Jeebers - it burns" moment.

Verdict - I'm glad this one was a gift because I would have been pissed if I had paid for this tube of poop.Very pricey, very overrated, very crap. Would not recommend.


Rimmel Volume Extends Waterproof Mascara
RRP - Approx $15AUD

What it is supposed to do - Lash extending & building Mascara. Build the excitement!

Does it? - This mascara has two ends, one is a wand with white stuff which you apply first to add volume and length to the lashes, then you cover the white with the normal mascara at the other end to make it look natural. But does it work that way? Fail! When you apply the white it looks like you have lash lice (again, still not sure if that's a real thing, but you get the idea). When you apply the black over that it just looks clumpy and messy.

Verdict - Not a fan. I know some people love this mascara, I am just not one of them. As you may have noticed, I am incredibly picky when it comes to mascara and this one just does not make the cut. Would not recommend.

Bourjois Paris Easy Waterproof Mascara

RRP - $21AUD

What it is supposed to do - Volumising and waterproof mascara. New innovative formula for an ultra easy removal.Your ultimate pool-side accessory: stays put in the water, but comes off as easily as a non-waterproof mascara. Thanks to its innovative flexi-bristle brush, lashes are evenly covered and smoothed – leaving them beautifully volumised.(http://www.bourjois.com.au/katalog/our_products/eyes/mascara/easy_waterproof)

Does it? - Nope. Not even close. This gets massively clumpy on the second coat. The brush is crap and the formula is way too thick. And it's not even easy to get off either! That's the main selling point of mascara and it's a moot point.

Verdict - Fail. I do not like a clumpy mascara, and this one is so thick and nasty you can't even attempt to brush the clumps out.Would not recommend.

So it looks like I am overly critical of mascaras, I know. But I swear I am not. I just thought I'd get the really crap ones over with quickly, the next lot are not nearly as bad. Overall - the worst of the bunch? Napoleon Perdis! I curse the day I ever saw this mascara beckoning me. The best? Honestly, I couldn't recommend a single one today, they all sucked big time. I wasted a heap of money one these, but for a good cause, because now you don't have to and at last, this mascara fetish of mine is justified. Hoorah! Victory is mine!

Have you have any experience with any of these mascaras? Care to share? I would love to hear your take on this product. Maybe I got got a dodgy tube (for five separate mascaras!)?

That post was super long and if you are still with me - high 5! The next installment will be coming your way soon, so watch this space.

My new polish giveaway is up and running now. Enter here.

That's it from me today.

Be awesome to each other.