tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55350455944974545882024-02-08T17:15:10.533+11:00The Made Up MaidenA blog to describe my beauty adventures and escapades, and anything else that may take my fancy along the way...The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.comBlogger421125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-37739065825839325972018-10-15T09:00:00.000+11:002018-10-15T09:00:01.114+11:00Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette Review + Swatches!Hey lovelies,<br />
<br />
I'm sitting here figuratively tearing my hair out, because I can't for the life of me figure out how to properly use my new laptop. It's really been a huge deterrent in the last few months, which is why I just haven't been blogging. I really wanted to write this blog post but it's taken me over an hour to merely import the photos and brighten them up a little, I haven't even managed to resize them so I've just given up and decided to post them as they are!! Hopefully in the next few days I can learn to do some basic editing on this laptop (<i>or download another program that will help me do that</i>). If you've got any recommendations for a <i>simple</i> photo editing software (<i>I'm using Windows 10)</i>, please help a girl out and let me know in the comments because I AM DESPERATE.<br />
<br />
<b>*Takes a deep breath*</b><br />
<br />
Okay, back to blogging. Have you seen the latest launch from Urban Decay in the Naked collection? It's called Naked Cherry, and it's true to the warm toned trend we've been seeing a lot from of late. This palette is part of an entire collection, comprising of the Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette (<i>$83</i>), 2 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils (<i>$33 each</i>), 3 limited edition Naked Cherry Vice Lipsticks (<i>$30 each</i>), and the limited edition travel sized Cherry All Nighter Setting Spray (<i>$23</i>). The launch in the US also has the Naked Cherry Highlight and Blush Palette, though we won't be receiving this here in Australia.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBPaPchUOeseUnkWjBlWjvu3r6_cngXJteaDNzzll60n2tvDMoetGk9IfIZhiymjS2F8qU8FtIEUVX-vAVytURDWXy18DvVMuMsxEJs_mSjUkjcDrsMSVzpNDSifD94JKSVEAEdIRwXFM/s1600/IMG_4853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBPaPchUOeseUnkWjBlWjvu3r6_cngXJteaDNzzll60n2tvDMoetGk9IfIZhiymjS2F8qU8FtIEUVX-vAVytURDWXy18DvVMuMsxEJs_mSjUkjcDrsMSVzpNDSifD94JKSVEAEdIRwXFM/s640/IMG_4853.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Urban Decay Naked Collection</td></tr>
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Just like the other Naked palettes, it has 12 shades comprising of a good mixture of mattes and shimmers, with a few good transition shades included. All in all, I think it's a pretty all-inclusive palette, you can take it traveling with you and have enough options to create a variety of looks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vw1chwCVMmDwcg4f5JZ1Wa-HTG60Kg7eeMvwoso0CkJxXiPPUUTdGZUw5jnF0QgCybkSldPKlw8LgpPXfuOgKuLtosrH1wAGyB6OaAv7_2pdh48927eovKDzLPA1RK7cygPPEqcg-AkG/s1600/IMG_4860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vw1chwCVMmDwcg4f5JZ1Wa-HTG60Kg7eeMvwoso0CkJxXiPPUUTdGZUw5jnF0QgCybkSldPKlw8LgpPXfuOgKuLtosrH1wAGyB6OaAv7_2pdh48927eovKDzLPA1RK7cygPPEqcg-AkG/s640/IMG_4860.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette</td></tr>
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Isn't it gorgeous? I think another name for it could've been Naked Wine or Naked Ruby!<br />
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<b>Let's take a closer look, shall we? Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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Like the last few palettes that have launched in the Naked series, the packaging consists of sturdy plastic with a magnetic closure. There is also mirror and a double ended brush included, with the name of the palette inscribed on it. Handy in the event you accidentally forget your brushes!<br />
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There's a reasonably good mixture of neutral and cherry shades, so you could easily create anything from a pretty, work-appropriate look to something more colorful for a night out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRow9eSfvVu4IazS-8bSd1G1ChYnCmboHfJmNDx5EbC-MceKBu_7wwb7Q-1i2_PA5o5qPmUK_2Awu7GRszy12Kzcq0SjLUgQUjLlDg1iFr50MNYKWoJup-KwqJ0ongHRsL0YqHeVtoP1g/s1600/IMG_4939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRow9eSfvVu4IazS-8bSd1G1ChYnCmboHfJmNDx5EbC-MceKBu_7wwb7Q-1i2_PA5o5qPmUK_2Awu7GRszy12Kzcq0SjLUgQUjLlDg1iFr50MNYKWoJup-KwqJ0ongHRsL0YqHeVtoP1g/s640/IMG_4939.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette</td></tr>
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Like all mattes, these can be a little powdery and kick up a bit of fall out, but it's easy enough to brush away gently and the shades do blend together easily enough. The matte shades included are Hot Spot (<i>cream</i>), Caution (<i>beige</i>), Feelz (<i>soft pink</i>), Juicy (<i>warm peach</i>), Bing (<i>mid toned pink</i>), Devilish (<i>deep cherry</i>) and Privacy (<i>deep brown</i>). The shimmers (<i>always my favorites</i>), are called Bang Bang (<i>rose pink</i>), Turn On (<i>golden bronze</i>), Ambitious (<i>deep bronze</i>), Young Love (<i>cherry</i>) and Drunk Dial (<i>deep brown shimmer</i>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QFWE7l2hLrbQeVBbJAoD02dMxt-fgSdzKntEAiUHzDpEHeqADiCnI92cgJTLH-OnOrsu-Sk__RLoZtn3xnckxoIVH3OIWs2nHhedxBIM_CRaSc4VzgOHXoKRyIKeZD8F96ou5Qi8asO6/s1600/IMG_4940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QFWE7l2hLrbQeVBbJAoD02dMxt-fgSdzKntEAiUHzDpEHeqADiCnI92cgJTLH-OnOrsu-Sk__RLoZtn3xnckxoIVH3OIWs2nHhedxBIM_CRaSc4VzgOHXoKRyIKeZD8F96ou5Qi8asO6/s640/IMG_4940.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette - Shades Hot Spot, Caution, Bang Bang, Feelz, Juicy and Turn On.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnECZabIOmAPI9JQPKnI4RQIS4GW-tTe7tMAwCfwS5vtbkpn_1ENuYQgh1Yw_WI4DGWN2DBmI28ZlKACR-Pni4En-3e689PTfXz9g8Cn9iuUP1dXwpIh3Gc989VsN2FFnVnOuY8EYrNa9o/s640/IMG_4941.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette - Shades Ambitious, Bing, Devilish, Young Love, Drunk Dial and Privacy.</td></tr>
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As you can see from the swatches below, the shades are beautifully pigmented. My personal favorites are Feelz, Turn On, Ambitious, Bing, and Young Love, though honestly, all the shades are beautiful.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH-RKshb9u2X5GewPjLhmiFEzExwEMU4lR7guWJU1MmlCGwQQl12QzrfthWxR546JQ5KbhFsET9l1zciZgRvpXREYe9Qr8BJMn1-R7oUk0uUE-vtYeqDRqBb-hOIiN601zHKPJjg5q73f/s1600/IMG_4953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="489" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH-RKshb9u2X5GewPjLhmiFEzExwEMU4lR7guWJU1MmlCGwQQl12QzrfthWxR546JQ5KbhFsET9l1zciZgRvpXREYe9Qr8BJMn1-R7oUk0uUE-vtYeqDRqBb-hOIiN601zHKPJjg5q73f/s640/IMG_4953.jpg" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette swatched on NC40 skin.</td></tr>
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Do you need this palette? Well, if you're looking for ways to incorporate more wearable colour in your life, this is a great way to do it. As a collector of the Naked Palettes, I'm thrilled to be adding this to my collection. I love palettes which are all-inclusive, and they always need to have a good transition shade, a pale matte shade to highlight my brow bone, as well as darker shades to contour/smoke things up with...and the Naked Cherry ticks all the boxes for me on that note.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6IMCW2ixLY9gjSwCpkLR2zCqVZuDw3r239XJhMRYbmlcocYG7KLWv0P8bj1VhWDKaOLECLYaM9w7CqilCzf0RkaB35hIBnhyphenhyphen10McIs5AEFxRJ0Dhx5XQS4kP5safDXlcViEIA5U8xP2dY/s1600/IMG_E4860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6IMCW2ixLY9gjSwCpkLR2zCqVZuDw3r239XJhMRYbmlcocYG7KLWv0P8bj1VhWDKaOLECLYaM9w7CqilCzf0RkaB35hIBnhyphenhyphen10McIs5AEFxRJ0Dhx5XQS4kP5safDXlcViEIA5U8xP2dY/s640/IMG_E4860.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you're based overseas - good news, this is already available from the Urban Decay <a href="https://www.urbandecay.com/naked-cherry-makeup" rel="nofollow">website</a>, though some of the collection seems to be out of stock at the moment.<br />
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If you're based in Australia, also good news, this collection is launching TOMORROW on the 16th of October, and will be available exclusively both <a href="https://www.mecca.com.au/urban-decay/" rel="nofollow">online</a> from Mecca Maxima as well as in stores. It's a great opportunity to snap the limited edition items up before they sell out, so I would hop to it quickly if you're thinking of adding it to your collection. I've got my eye on the travel spray!<br />
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Will you be picking this palette up? Thoughts on the Naked Cherry collection?<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Note: This palette was provided for editorial consideration. However, this has not affected my opinion in any way, and all opinions are based on my personal experience with the product. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</i></span>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-22858036341472041012018-07-19T23:30:00.000+10:002018-07-20T09:20:15.506+10:00Elucent Anti-Ageing + Whitening Skincare Review (Version 2) - The Update!Hello lovelies,<br />
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It seems like all I do is apologize for neglecting my poor blog, as well as all of you, loyal readers! The thing is though, 2018 has been a bit of a period of upheaval for me, so I've been busy trying to keep my head above water, what with balancing full time work, my health and a few other personal issues. It's odd because I do love blogging very much and sharing my thoughts on things with all of you, yet the longer I've been away, the harder it was/is to return. My old laptop pretty much died on me as well, so I had no choice but to get a new one. The only problem is it doesn't have any of the simple tools I used to use, which also made returning to blogging a lot harder. I can be a bit of a perfectionist as well, which doesn't help matters any. Hence, I decided to just dive in, and not worry about how perfect or imperfect things are, and just get the ball rolling again, so please bear with me if things aren't as smooth as they usually are.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggl58m4NIWOjXt6D58vDcaRInLvfPpzK4GLPfL-aim42zHrDBi7d9GD5-M1AMKlqNCZ7kZ0m6IaN6ji3ovsDUh9DMGjqntUsb61uiu3EG0XYFCbyJl6wDYmtuAouNkaeLXcX8Jr06nstCJ/s1600/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="577" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggl58m4NIWOjXt6D58vDcaRInLvfPpzK4GLPfL-aim42zHrDBi7d9GD5-M1AMKlqNCZ7kZ0m6IaN6ji3ovsDUh9DMGjqntUsb61uiu3EG0XYFCbyJl6wDYmtuAouNkaeLXcX8Jr06nstCJ/s640/image1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The last post I wrote was on some beautiful products I was trying from skincare brand Elucent (<i>you can read it <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2017/12/elucent-anti-ageing-whitening-skincare.html">here</a></i>). They contacted me a few months ago with an offer to try updated skincare regime, which I jumped at as I really liked their products. I was matched to my personal skincare concerns of dullness, uneven texture and fine lines, and also requested products to replenish moisture, given that my skin can get a little dehydrated in winter. I was provided with the Whitening Exfoliating Cleanser* (<i>with embelica fruit extract, glycerin and vitamin B3</i>), Anti-Ageing Serum* (<i>with 16% AHAs</i>), Anti-Ageing Day Moisturiser* (<i>with SPF 50+</i>) and the Whitening Night Moisturiser* (<i>with embelica fruit extract, safflower seed oil and vitamin B3, C and E</i>).<br />
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I've been using these products for about three months now, so here are my thoughts!<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<b>Whitening Exfoliating Cleanser* (<i>with embelica fruit extract, glycerin and vitamin B3</i>) $29.99</b><br />
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I quite like this! It's meant to be a gentle product which cleanses and exfoliates at the same time, and it does live up to expectations. It's packaged in a squeeze tube so it's very easy to dispense a small dollop out for use. As per norm, I usually remove my makeup, then use this as the second part in a 2-cleanse regime. It feels a bit like a cream/milk with tiny beads inside, but it doesn't feel at all abrasive as I'm using it, and my skin does feel a little cleaner and smoother after use without a tight or sensitive feel.<br />
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<i>Which cleanser wins?</i> If I were to compare this to the Anti-Ageing one I used the last time, I'd be hard pressed to pick a favourite...I did love that cleanser, but this wins by a teeny tiny margin because the lazy part of me gets to skip doing a separate exfoliation step.<br />
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<b>Anti-Ageing Serum* (<i>with 16% AHAs</i>) $49.99</b><br />
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This is probably one of the more expensive products in the range. It's packaged in a squeeze tube with a thin nozzle, so it's easy to squeeze out the exact amount you need. Contrary to most serums I've tried in the past, this actually feels almost like a moisturizer, with a cream-like texture. It does spread well over the skin, and despite having quite a high percentage of AHAs, I don't feel any tingling when using it. Now, I don't have a lot of lines/wrinkles as yet (<i>and I'm trying to keep it that way!</i>), but I do have some around my eyes and lips, so I tend to concentrate this serum in those areas. Overall, I feel like these areas do look a bit firmer, with the lines a little less visible with regular use, so I feel like it's doing a good job of filling them in and smoothing them out. I also feel that as it's got a thicker feel to it than most serums, it's actually adding hydration back into the skin.<br />
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<b>Anti-Ageing Day Moisturiser* (<i>with SPF 50+</i>) </b><b>$49.99</b><br />
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This is probably my favourite of all the products I've tried in the new range. It comes in a handy pump bottle, which is my favourite type of packaging. My last Elucent day moisturiser was the Whitening one, which I found to be a little heavy on the skin. I love, love, love the texture of this, it's hydrating and light and sits beautifully on my skin without feeling heavy. I also really love that it's got a high SPF factor, which means more protection from the sun and luckily, doesn't leave that white cast on my skin. It also puts a little bit of radiance back into my skin, which is especially important currently as the high heating indoors and cold temperatures outdoors can leave my skin looking a bit dull. Another thing to add is that it acts well as a base for makeup, without pilling like some moisturisers can do.<br />
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<i>Which moisturiser wins?</i> Definitely the Anti-Ageing one. I love that the texture is a lot lighter and sinks so beautifully into the skin.<br />
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<b>Whitening Night Moisturiser* (<i>with embelica fruit extract, safflower seed oil and vitamin B3, C and E</i>) </b><b>$49.99</b><br />
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Another product that I really enjoyed using. It's packaged in a screw top jar, which isn't my favourite type of packaging because it takes up a lot of room, and I wonder how much germs are being deposited in every time I open it to scoop some out. However, packaging aside, I have to say that Elucent do really beautifully with their night moisturisers, as the Anti-Ageing one I used last time was also a huge favourite of mine. The Whitening version is a little thicker and slightly heavier than the Anti-Ageing one, but I still really enjoy using it. To be honest, I think it's a great fit for the cold winter weather, as it really does feel like I'm adding some hydration back into my skin. For the perfect balance, I'll happily continue using this for the cold winter months and swapping for the Anti-Ageing one when it comes to the warmer months.<br />
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<i>Which moisturiser wins?</i> Again, a really hard call, but I'd pick the Anti-Ageing one simply because it had a truly luxurious feel to it, and it made me feel like I was being pampered in a very expensive spa whenever I smoothed it on my skin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49EdmBQhS19huBVfU-DbyIT_AiECgOautQgf-5zfCjoaHjgMYh5oEDAXEmWAikmgzwvaKKMvMZabk35HK-KKSmM2UCCU8DRMHBXhc6HZmLQDDJ26pBNg68KJG04bbv52xFhn26hX5bjcG/s1600/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="458" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49EdmBQhS19huBVfU-DbyIT_AiECgOautQgf-5zfCjoaHjgMYh5oEDAXEmWAikmgzwvaKKMvMZabk35HK-KKSmM2UCCU8DRMHBXhc6HZmLQDDJ26pBNg68KJG04bbv52xFhn26hX5bjcG/s640/image3.jpeg" width="536" /></a></div>
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Well, there you have it, lovelies. I've tried seven different Elucent products now from both ranges, and I really love the way the products feel and perform. I'd definitely repurchase, and I do have a slight tendency towards the Anti-Ageing range, because the products feel very luxurious and light on the skin.<br />
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Have you tried Elucent before? Which of these products do you like the sound of? Elucent is available exclusively from Chemist Warehouse, My Chemist and the Ego Online Store.<br />
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<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: This is a sponsored post and the products were provided for editorial consideration. However, this has not affected my opinion in any way, and all opinions are based on my personal experience with the products. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-88055389426909375772017-12-10T23:30:00.000+11:002018-07-20T01:07:53.035+10:00Elucent Anti-Ageing + Whitening Skincare Review (Version 1) - The Original!Hello lovelies!<br />
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Two posts in a week! I'm on a roll! I can't believe we are two weeks out from Christmas, where's the year gone?!<br />
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I was recently offered the chance to try some skincare from Elucent, a skincare line owned by Ego Pharmaceuticals which also owns brands like QV and SunSense. I've never tried the brand before, so I was quite eager to see what it would be like. I was matched to my personal skincare concerns of uneven pigmentation and fine lines, and provided with the Anti-Ageing Gentle Cleanser* (<i>with 2% AHAs [Alpha Hydroxy Acids], vitamins B3, E and C</i>), Whitening Day Moisturiser* (<i>with SPF30</i>) and Anti-Ageing Night Moisturiser* (<i>with 8% AHAs</i>). I've been trialling this range for about three weeks now, so here are my thoughts!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrH6LT4TjXMH-o5TVcqOBzYzYnlCw7jAZDOVjfHUux5BtNDpmUtPK88CSJcA4Xw2Fa62L6aZdlV2sDGE07IdC74K2XT2FFIamNHYRf55nHe-FqGlysgamwDeZcGqgPRmsSxRaM-eHcqN-/s1600/image2+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrH6LT4TjXMH-o5TVcqOBzYzYnlCw7jAZDOVjfHUux5BtNDpmUtPK88CSJcA4Xw2Fa62L6aZdlV2sDGE07IdC74K2XT2FFIamNHYRf55nHe-FqGlysgamwDeZcGqgPRmsSxRaM-eHcqN-/s640/image2+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Anti-Ageing Gentle Cleanser (with 2% AHAs, Vitamins B3, E & C) $20.99</b><br />
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This cleanser is meant to purify and revitalise. It cleanses the skin while the AHAs and vitamins work to gently exfoliate the skin. It's packaged in a handy pump bottle which makes it really easy to dispense. This works just the same as any foaming cleanser would. I remove my makeup with my oil cleanser, then use this for double cleansing by applying 1-2 pumps into the palm of my hand and massaging it into my face before rinsing it off. While the box did warn of a possible tingling sensation, I did not personally experience anything of that sort. Overall, I really like this cleanser, it feels like it really cleans my skin without stripping it of moisture.<br />
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<b>Whitening Day Moisturiser (with SPF30) $36.99</b><br />
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This moisturiser is meant to brighten and protect your skin. The Emblica Fruit extract, safflower seed oil and vitamins B3 and E are meant to moisturise the skin, while broad spectrum SPF30 helps protect the skin from premature ageing and pigmentation. Like the cleanser, it's packaged in a handy pump bottle. The cream itself is quite thick and does leave a sheen on my skin once applied. I did feel that it was quite heavy and sometimes had to wash off any residue left on my hands after applying, but it sat nicely enough on my face/neck and wore well under makeup. I wasn't overly fond of the texture in the beginning, but it has grown on me somewhat and I have to admit that my skin does look clearer and more even now than when I first began using it. Overall, I have grown to like this, especially after seeing results, and I also love that I can skip using sunscreen since it's already incorporated in my moisturiser.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<b>Anti-Ageing Night Moisturiser (with 8% AHAs, Vitamins B3, E and C)</b> <b>$36.99</b><br />
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This moisturiser is meant to regenerate and hydrate. The AHAs, Vitamins B3, E and C help to increase the texture of the skin, while also reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The directions I received were to slowly introduce lower levels of AHAs before moving on to higher levels, so I introduced this night cream into my routine after about 3 days of using the cleanser and day moisturiser. It's packaged in a screw top jar, which admittedly, the germaphobe in me isn't wildly keen on, but that's the only negative I observed. You simply scoop out a small amount and massage it in over your face and neck. I really loved this cream, and it's probably my favourite of all three products. Similar to the cleanser, the box warned of possible tingling, but again, I was completely unaffected. The texture isn't too heavy for my normal-combination skin, and I always wake up with supple, glowing skin after using this. Overall, I'm a huge fan and will definitely be repurchasing, because I feel that this moisturiser, working together with the other two products, has definitely given me clearer and more even-looking skin.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O25I5-kzkr5lKFFlQoQSzmxpxORTo520gfQLdh8nasEN2KaH7LGoVOAy7VXA2C-C3iDPoJ_NceHfnHmDcbF6Yiyw4UkUn1FAKaYfK6sB_VjYNZwfscFaS06x7HIF8CqwhACRTlL9Lv7V/s1600/image1+%2528800x690%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="800" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O25I5-kzkr5lKFFlQoQSzmxpxORTo520gfQLdh8nasEN2KaH7LGoVOAy7VXA2C-C3iDPoJ_NceHfnHmDcbF6Yiyw4UkUn1FAKaYfK6sB_VjYNZwfscFaS06x7HIF8CqwhACRTlL9Lv7V/s640/image1+%2528800x690%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There you have it, lovelies, my thoughts on these three Elucent products. Have you tried anything from the brand before? Elucent is available exclusively from Chemist Warehouse, My Chemist and the Ego Online Store.<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: This is a sponsored post and the products were provided for editorial consideration. However, this has not affected my opinion in any way, and all opinions are based on my personal experience with the products. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-63717569375173653012017-12-05T08:00:00.000+11:002017-12-05T08:00:23.526+11:006 Kris Kringle / Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Christmas | 2017 Hi lovelies,<br />
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Can you believe that Christmas is almost here?! It feels like it was just a few weeks ago and yet a whole year has passed since.<br />
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There's been a lot of talk about Kris Kringle/Bad Santa around my office, so I thought I'd share some Kris Kringle/Stocking Stuffer ideas to fit every budget and preference.<br />
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<b>1) <a href="http://www.aromatherapyassociates.com.au/gifts.html">Aromatherapy Associates</a> </b>Precious Support Breathe Bath & Shower Bauble ($20) & Treasured Time Deep Relax and Revive Rollerball Set ($40).* These are also stocked at Sephora Australia and Adore Beauty.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkXkZwDK2IMI1YV3fz26ycxcPgPQCqRHBvAOtUH_nHIKpcsec5fkYQEndUzE1kWgjYJhdK2TniSeaBLaOFqqHmRSO_WYeAR7JwgR6hAyvChPVsdZhsmMEx2DRghALO2ft0CL_rBOlU1rX/s1600/image8+%2528571x399%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="571" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkXkZwDK2IMI1YV3fz26ycxcPgPQCqRHBvAOtUH_nHIKpcsec5fkYQEndUzE1kWgjYJhdK2TniSeaBLaOFqqHmRSO_WYeAR7JwgR6hAyvChPVsdZhsmMEx2DRghALO2ft0CL_rBOlU1rX/s640/image8+%2528571x399%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aromatherapy Associates Precious Support Breathe Bath & Shower Bauble ($20) & Treasured Time Deep Relax and Revive Rollerball Set ($40).</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aromatherapy Associates Precious Support Breathe Bath & Shower Bauble ($20) & Treasured Time Deep Relax and Revive Rollerball Set ($40).</td></tr>
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These gift sets are packaged beautifully. The Precious Support Breathe Bath & Shower Bauble is both rejuvenating and relaxing, with its combination of Eucalyptus, Pine, Tea Tree and Peppermint essential oils. The Treasured Time Deep Relax and Revive Rollerball Set is pure indulgence. I love using the Deep Relax on my pulse points before bed, while the Revive is perfect for when I need a quick boost of energy (l<i>ike when 3pm hits at work and I can feel my energy flagging</i>).</div>
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b></div>
<a name='more'></a>2) Jeffree Star Velour Liquid Lipstick* in Wifey ($28) which I got from <a href="https://www.blackswallow.com.au/jeffree-star-cosmetics">Black Swallow</a>.<br />
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Love him or hate him, his liquid lipsticks are some of my favourites, and I have slowly amassed quite the collection. Let me know if you want to see swatches of every shade I have! I picked Wifey because it's a beautiful brick red, a bit less out there than some of his other shades, but perfect for the festive season. Furthermore, these lipsticks are super comfortable and wear so beautifully that you won't have to worry about touching up regularly. These lippies have such a cult reputation that they will be a welcome addition to any lipstick lover's stocking. Black Swallow have also just released the Holiday collection!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwO-U6idmR7VRXNbKEbIE9C7Fzda1527E1gvdF9SIDMLgOEv2m0H8TZlj0ejyV4enJwRo7B2ChuDhtvzPzKQlSQi1iHa01vhIHGGkTwJdkEKBCEqMPPTAIweSQ06Cck_fqbgaZa2_ycHJ/s1600/image4+%2528595x424%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="595" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwO-U6idmR7VRXNbKEbIE9C7Fzda1527E1gvdF9SIDMLgOEv2m0H8TZlj0ejyV4enJwRo7B2ChuDhtvzPzKQlSQi1iHa01vhIHGGkTwJdkEKBCEqMPPTAIweSQ06Cck_fqbgaZa2_ycHJ/s640/image4+%2528595x424%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeffree Star Velour Liquid Lipstick* in Wifey</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSv93LSdXRlm2eDCpF1xOfJp6y4kupSpc6EQfgv3z_BqEq9L6wjG2aM3kzinPdt6JXokKPAbx_Ci3tRBbyd-z9rzoDH3rJR9eYEG7tSCBl3sCFDFexd6rF3Tj-9ukS1GJ1_4g2aGeWPeLS/s1600/image2+%2528640x480%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSv93LSdXRlm2eDCpF1xOfJp6y4kupSpc6EQfgv3z_BqEq9L6wjG2aM3kzinPdt6JXokKPAbx_Ci3tRBbyd-z9rzoDH3rJR9eYEG7tSCBl3sCFDFexd6rF3Tj-9ukS1GJ1_4g2aGeWPeLS/s640/image2+%2528640x480%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeffree Star Velour Liquid Lipstick* in Wifey</td></tr>
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3) <a href="https://www.danielwellington.com/au/create-gift-set/">Daniel Wellington</a> Classic Petite Ashfield ($239) and Classic Cuff (S)* in rose gold ($79) but available in a gift set for $286 at time of writing.<br />
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The Daniel Wellington watches are simply gorgeous and elegant timepieces that will never go out of fashion. You can select a personalised gift set comprising any watch and a cuff/strap for 10% off, and everything will be beautifully packaged in a curated gift box with free gift wrapping and free worldwide shipping. I have also been generously given a discount code to share with my readers; '<i>themadeupmaiden</i>' entitles you to an additional 15% on top of all other promotions (<i>not an affiliate code, just trying to save you money</i>) until December 31st. These make an excellent gift idea for the fashion lover in your life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNoVAuIGMeXXAyLNNAFwjITwnyfSH3JayrBDCwU_faRB0yo4hEq5A85LOHvh4RN7mVku720nZPopVvHG-wYGfz6jNptH9G-uDxtjbkIJpb6w8NtZP23qzcUDNoBnfdI8nzQwSCpLNXcwj/s1600/image3+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNoVAuIGMeXXAyLNNAFwjITwnyfSH3JayrBDCwU_faRB0yo4hEq5A85LOHvh4RN7mVku720nZPopVvHG-wYGfz6jNptH9G-uDxtjbkIJpb6w8NtZP23qzcUDNoBnfdI8nzQwSCpLNXcwj/s640/image3+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daniel Wellington Classic Petite Ashfield watch and cuff in rose gold.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVYo9CgHKA11Pu6CiCN3bxAswaBCcS6-z2cnGZzHxuy5DH3EqNqrmuyVkWo74ImVA0QZ_LMf18IuYqK4nKW_XOUMF5yGy47J_Yi7c_bMnKhtkDVZXYaa7PsNPZqyjetrZXCAyhwcVOQqXv/s1600/image5+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVYo9CgHKA11Pu6CiCN3bxAswaBCcS6-z2cnGZzHxuy5DH3EqNqrmuyVkWo74ImVA0QZ_LMf18IuYqK4nKW_XOUMF5yGy47J_Yi7c_bMnKhtkDVZXYaa7PsNPZqyjetrZXCAyhwcVOQqXv/s640/image5+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Daniel Wellington Classic Petite Ashfield watch and cuff in rose gold.</span></td></tr>
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4) <a href="https://wildshome.com.au/product/magnolia-classic-candle/">WILDS </a>classic candle in Magnolia ($30)*<br />
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The WILDS candles are beautiful, with a burn time of approximately 50 hours each. There's a variety of scents available and I've already got my eye on the Lychee & Coconut one as well as Oriental Woods. I love burning candles whenever I have guests over. With the festive season coming up, these make a welcome addition to any home as they create a lovely atmosphere.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Vf0O640Gi2kF3uPmLhh5ZltR7Gj3xLXG3As8_fy47Ch3Z5a6DtfWy2p6B8D7qUHom9ofLOKuWgWAh-RBzkrBvSTUHRnHEhW89vZ-V2nIhlvtA7F0MR-noEiaCQQlqp1IGhgoSzoGZiZp/s1600/image9+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Vf0O640Gi2kF3uPmLhh5ZltR7Gj3xLXG3As8_fy47Ch3Z5a6DtfWy2p6B8D7qUHom9ofLOKuWgWAh-RBzkrBvSTUHRnHEhW89vZ-V2nIhlvtA7F0MR-noEiaCQQlqp1IGhgoSzoGZiZp/s640/image9+%2528640x640%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WILDS classic candle in Magnolia</td></tr>
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5) <a href="https://www.bobbibrown.com.au/products/15606/holiday/">Bobbi Brown</a> Limited Edition Satin & Caviar Shadow and Long-Wear Gel Liner palette ($90)*<br />
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I live for the Bobbi Brown holiday collections every year. The holiday releases are always travel friendly and so classic, and a good way to try things from the collection. I've loved purchasing these as gifts as well because of how compact they are! This palette fits in the palm of your hand and contains three shadows (which can also double as brow powders in a pinch) and a mini pot of the best selling gel liner, with a dual ended shadow and liner brush included. This is perfect for the jet setter in your life who always likes to travel light while still looking their best.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKwAXQz-y1VF3kMowhZdrnlxU1qmmcbKkzQBn8EyuWo3DQDwZS1O166Y6UqXfZVjhuZW7-9Hn6xNNhyphenhyphen78-SSIXGVzobWwny1unks07IK0Y5v8mpmIGfpsgWSh4aaA6jDZEH8LUdvVWxUs/s1600/image10+%2528640x480%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKwAXQz-y1VF3kMowhZdrnlxU1qmmcbKkzQBn8EyuWo3DQDwZS1O166Y6UqXfZVjhuZW7-9Hn6xNNhyphenhyphen78-SSIXGVzobWwny1unks07IK0Y5v8mpmIGfpsgWSh4aaA6jDZEH8LUdvVWxUs/s640/image10+%2528640x480%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Satin & Caviar Shadow and Long-Wear Gel Liner palette </td></tr>
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6) 50000 mAh Power Bank Double USB charger ($40) from <a href="http://iphone-cases.com.au/">iphone-cases.com.au</a>. *</div>
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This has been a godsend that's never left my work bag. My smartphone is always running out of juice, and I sometimes don't have time to charge it, so it's great that I can just connect it to my powerbank while I'm out and about. This one is sleek, stylish and most importantly functional...it has two USB hubs so I can connect multiple devices, a display to let me know how much charge is remaining, and even a built in torch light function for emergencies. It's the perfect gift for the person in your life who is always on the go, yet attached to their mobile devices.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdr62kAxbUzX2LTF46n5GXFmR4ZlP4eQrDIiw0IvRJeq7pRDe0MsUsSmXcrnScIsNau5vUaZRjjkeL-cIa3y-uZZtYQ8JA882kbWNMCFIvzTDgImh0AYqrb7PSoM0EW5VJBmVFO6WRxcaB/s1600/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="749" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdr62kAxbUzX2LTF46n5GXFmR4ZlP4eQrDIiw0IvRJeq7pRDe0MsUsSmXcrnScIsNau5vUaZRjjkeL-cIa3y-uZZtYQ8JA882kbWNMCFIvzTDgImh0AYqrb7PSoM0EW5VJBmVFO6WRxcaB/s640/image1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">0000 mAh Power Bank Double USB charger</td></tr>
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There you have it, lovelies, 6 Kris Kringle/Stocking Stuffer ideas for every budget and preference! Which of these is your fave? What do you have your eye on for Christmas?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
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Note: The products marked with an * were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.<br />
<br />The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-31321080795507211192017-10-31T00:24:00.001+11:002017-10-31T00:26:45.674+11:00Halloween 2017 Makeup and Nails!Hi lovelies!<br />
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Happy Halloween!! If you've been following me for any period of time, you'll know that I love Halloween, and usually do something on the blog every year, so I couldn't let the occasion pass without doing something special.<br />
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I went to a makeup event at Spooktober a few days ago and as I was coming straight from work, I didn't have many options, so I created <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BayV_bwnbcI/">this</a> quick and easy look. However, I literally did that in 5 minutes in my car outside the venue, so I did want to do something here on the blog that would take a bit more effort.<br />
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Now, I've always wanted to try the mermaid look and then I received a Halloween challenge from one of my favorite brands, Rimmel London, where I was challenged to recreate a look created for them by British Blogger/Youtuber called <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cocochicblog">CocoChicBlog</a>. The look is called the '<i>Dark Mermaid'</i>, and encompasses ombre brows, fish scales, smudgy tear stains and a dark lip. Here is my take on it, together with a few small touches of my own! I also decided to do nails to match, which you can see later on in this post.<br />
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Before we go further, I'll just admit that I wasn't too happy with this look for a couple of reasons.<br />
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1) I couldn't buy proper fishnet stockings anywhere! I went to four different stores on the weekend before finally giving up and buying the pair I used here, but the fishnet pattern was quite small, which became a real struggle when I slipped it over my head, so the 'fish scale' pattern wasn't as clear as I'd have liked.<br />
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2) I had really hoped to finish work early, finish this look and take the photos in natural light, as I'd managed to do for the manicure photos. Unfortunately, I left work a little later than expected, by which time the weather had taken a turn for the worse and started storming, so I had to take these photos by the light of my makeup desk which is quite warm. Still, something is always better than nothing, right?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfmng6aGpDqXQpCEnSJ0eSwd53qheV_Ma6mmJRQbtdyi_RTBYuyMa3_DAdL8bN0KIjhtZYiaI079O3ncyGdPgxFY9auLdtvCUsw3lzcVNHU_jCZenzPZ6bXXTD9Qqio9kgHqkkDpkcS6A/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="674" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfmng6aGpDqXQpCEnSJ0eSwd53qheV_Ma6mmJRQbtdyi_RTBYuyMa3_DAdL8bN0KIjhtZYiaI079O3ncyGdPgxFY9auLdtvCUsw3lzcVNHU_jCZenzPZ6bXXTD9Qqio9kgHqkkDpkcS6A/s640/7.jpg" width="570" /></a></div>
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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Also, here is a close up of my nails!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7FYOfZgpkSfygFND_wV1tTGzunUwERQzyS2nWpluzNmTzoeZfFJHu93YDpqrA8rlEpUOPlZ0fTGOq51P5kjhKAsoQTF38OwqgmttsYxbWi3tTP9GZX4FJ6XE0Ej60JbrBofMvU23uSBq/s1600/image4+%2528800x748%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="800" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7FYOfZgpkSfygFND_wV1tTGzunUwERQzyS2nWpluzNmTzoeZfFJHu93YDpqrA8rlEpUOPlZ0fTGOq51P5kjhKAsoQTF38OwqgmttsYxbWi3tTP9GZX4FJ6XE0Ej60JbrBofMvU23uSBq/s640/image4+%2528800x748%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There you have it, lovelies! My nails and makeup look for Halloween 2017! What did you think? Don't forget that you can also click on the Halloween tag below to view everything I've done in previous years!<br />
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Have a happy, safe and fun Halloween with your loved ones!<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: Some items were provided for editorial consideration, and used to create these looks. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-16798687317472932742017-10-05T13:16:00.001+11:002017-10-05T14:39:50.564+11:00Mecca 20th Birthday Limited Edition Collection - My Top Ten Picks!<div class="MsoNormal">
Hey guys!<br />
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I am so very sorry for having been away for so long…I know it seems like I keep saying that but having moved to a whole new industry, it’s a little hard catching up, so I’ve been having to devote a fair bit of time to my professional life (<i>seeing as that’s what pays the bills and funds my shopping addiction *wink*</i>). Also, I’m on Instagram every single day, which takes a fair chunk of time. Having said that, I do miss blogging, so I’m resolving to try A LOT HARDER to be more regular with my posts!<br />
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Kicking today’s post off with a bang...if you live in Australia, the name Mecca will not be unknown to you, because it's literally a heaven for Australian makeup lovers! Did you know that Mecca have just celebrated their 20th birthday, and as a result, have just released a whole swag of limited edition, exclusive products?! The products in the collection are from a mixture of Australian and international brands, curated exclusively to Mecca, and there are some AMAZING things that I’ve got my eye on! I thought it would be fun to share my top 10 picks from the range, all of which is available to shop online <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/collections/meccas-20th-birthday/?sc_src=email_45123&sc_lid=2973611&sc_uid=z8kfnjwrjg&sc_llid=124447&sc_eh=8a28b2469537a9201&utm_source=Mecca&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20171003_MECCA_OCTWK1A_MECCA20#sz=36&start=0">here</a>.<br />
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<b>1) Hourglass Cosmetics MECCA20 Ambient Lighting Palette $90</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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This contains an Ambient Lighting Powder and Bronzer in Luminous Light and Luminous Bronze Light, as well as a special edition blush shade in Mecca Birthday Glow. I absolutely love the Hourglass powders, and when you throw in a limited edition shade, I'm totally sold! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/hourglass/mecca20-ambient-lighting-palette/I-028680.html?sc_src=email_45123&sc_lid=2973605&sc_uid=z8kfnjwrjg&sc_llid=124447&sc_eh=8a28b2469537a9201&utm_source=Mecca&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20171003_MECCA_OCTWK1A_MECCA20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b></div>
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<b>2) Stila MECCA20 Stay All Day liquid lipstick $32</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KVqhEK-3ALvWTOGvoLhEioiAbcq9LBHnsnjt7atZjcJ-aQMQObQvJjsW7OC5nrSAkFp9NtZ5eIZaXQWuDqgHqr8f0ihK1aNupOOQtDAe_L4Xx4crd3mQYOelfNC5ZjF4XWmv1yhr8YUg/s1600/M20+Stila+Stay+All+Day+Liquid+Lipstick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="694" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KVqhEK-3ALvWTOGvoLhEioiAbcq9LBHnsnjt7atZjcJ-aQMQObQvJjsW7OC5nrSAkFp9NtZ5eIZaXQWuDqgHqr8f0ihK1aNupOOQtDAe_L4Xx4crd3mQYOelfNC5ZjF4XWmv1yhr8YUg/s400/M20+Stila+Stay+All+Day+Liquid+Lipstick.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I've got a couple of these, and boy, do they stay PUT. Vitamin E and avocado oil ingredients deliver a creamy, non-drying formula that's comfortable on the lips. This rose hue was created specially to fit the Mecca branding, and I foresee this being a shade that would flatter most skintones. More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/stila/mecca20-stay-all-day-liquid-lipstick/I-028750.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>. Note: this is also available in a bundle <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/stila/mecca20-stay-all-day-set/I-028749.html?cgpath=brands-stila#start=1">set</a> for $67. </div>
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<b>3) MECCA Cosmetica MECCA20 Enlightened Lit from Within Powder $48</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-g_-lGS42LO4KvYCX9HTSTR9zl9U7ciQh-eFOX7SjuH12m50564mgP-RK_NMgKGjrU9auJ-OEwujmkbv1Fiac4i9KReY60ufAgyTJONbZz0OJOUOxfWM98Ugl1K1Jky-FD75xY3deJt4/s1600/i-028838-enlight-lfw-powder-20bday-2-378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-g_-lGS42LO4KvYCX9HTSTR9zl9U7ciQh-eFOX7SjuH12m50564mgP-RK_NMgKGjrU9auJ-OEwujmkbv1Fiac4i9KReY60ufAgyTJONbZz0OJOUOxfWM98Ugl1K1Jky-FD75xY3deJt4/s400/i-028838-enlight-lfw-powder-20bday-2-378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I actually already have this powder, and it's a beautiful golden glow that flatters all skintones. This has been re-released in special edition (<i>on-trend</i>) rose gold packaging, and would be a must for any rose gold/highlighter loving makeup-lover! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/mecca-cosmetica/mecca20-enlightened-lit-from-within-powder/I-028838.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>. </div>
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<b>4) Bobbi Brown MECCA20 Crushed Lip Colour $46</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUhdDdfyGDl-5HWHFK26tUVZmjlYdc09DSW9CYwu3TDVtEzJ3L9aPY7HPUBrxWzuwO91uCD2nZPozhdBRN90xl1-C-nMrvd86hS8k-RDqN_vUPpLc1ISKJ8Zxe3Hcv8_D8zcrR9Ez3Almt/s1600/i-028593-mecca-20-crushed-lip-colour-cali-rose-1-378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUhdDdfyGDl-5HWHFK26tUVZmjlYdc09DSW9CYwu3TDVtEzJ3L9aPY7HPUBrxWzuwO91uCD2nZPozhdBRN90xl1-C-nMrvd86hS8k-RDqN_vUPpLc1ISKJ8Zxe3Hcv8_D8zcrR9Ez3Almt/s400/i-028593-mecca-20-crushed-lip-colour-cali-rose-1-378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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Bobbi Brown have long been one of my favourite luxury brands, and their products never disappoint! The crushed lip colours are meant to be comfortable to wear, resulting in a soft, stain-like finish. There are 20 shades in this limited edition collection so I'm sure there will something to cater to everyone! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/bobbi-brown/mecca20-crushed-lip-colour/V-028603.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>5) Mario Badescu MECCA20 The Radiant Trio $57</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvtte38ZZgPch56Aav5FvTbw5JEvKirTTlF4-srXQKrSimo85uMgLoieN8kYbNLc2mrjScwpXtg8AVxgL1iHOJBK-2cC_6DTG0TEHOSodyYP4PgyP-rmDljKtXM0JdsLrmVonwZLBvaYd/s1600/M20+Mario+Badescu+Radiant-Skin-Trio_preview.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvtte38ZZgPch56Aav5FvTbw5JEvKirTTlF4-srXQKrSimo85uMgLoieN8kYbNLc2mrjScwpXtg8AVxgL1iHOJBK-2cC_6DTG0TEHOSodyYP4PgyP-rmDljKtXM0JdsLrmVonwZLBvaYd/s400/M20+Mario+Badescu+Radiant-Skin-Trio_preview.jpeg" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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This skincare trio pack consists of the Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater and the Rose Hips Mask. I already own several of his products but I'd love to try more. The Facial Spray has been on my wishlist for a while, so this seems like a great way to pick it up and try a few more bits in the process! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/mario-badescu/mecca20-the-radiant-trio/I-028890.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>6) GlamGlow MECCA20 Mini Mask and Moisturiser Trio $57</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE anything Glamglow, and have quite the collection, but I'm always looking for more options to add to my stash! The GlamGlow masks are a little expensive, but totally worth it...the minis in particular are great value because they are a fraction of what you'd pay for a full sized treatment, yet will still last a fair while. This contains my favourite ever mask, the YouthMud TingleExfoliate, plus the SuperMud Clearing Treatment and GlowStarter Mega Illuminating Moisturiser. More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/glamglow/mecca20-mini-mask-moisturiser-trio/I-028788.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>7) NARS MECCA20 Audacious Lip Collection $234</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I adore the formula of the Audacious lipsticks, they are so creamy and comfortable on the lips. In a dream world, I'd be all over this <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/nars/mecca20-audacious-lip-collection/I-028751.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">set</a> because the shades are simply stunning and right up my alley...but since I have to be a responsible adult and pay my bills, I'll probably settle for buying one (<i>or two</i>) of the shades <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/nars/mecca20-audacious-lipstick/V-028756.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">individually</a>.<br />
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<b>8) MECCA Cosmetica MECCA20 Lip De-Luscious $30</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpJHkAs7Ra5pOIneuBcnzygFT2nwhr4RQUufy02d7YCVaTYQcfXbSoZS8NIAaitbkXR6SU08DfVMa_qyODM-0L2nUnjvxyzs78iyDvy6uHUyzCVALTlnLtHqG0t1HMiTmT6bbWhQo8_YR/s1600/i-029999-lip-de-luscious-20-bday-1-378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpJHkAs7Ra5pOIneuBcnzygFT2nwhr4RQUufy02d7YCVaTYQcfXbSoZS8NIAaitbkXR6SU08DfVMa_qyODM-0L2nUnjvxyzs78iyDvy6uHUyzCVALTlnLtHqG0t1HMiTmT6bbWhQo8_YR/s400/i-029999-lip-de-luscious-20-bday-1-378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I've long been lusting after these lip treatments because they have such a good reputation...and when better to pick one up than in a limited edition colour? More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/mecca-cosmetica/mecca20-lip-de-luscious/I-029999.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>9) Clinique MECCA20 Best of Clinique Set $40 </b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguS3V8FeVws-K3VKY7Fxhamy-zvQduuIjzoaN4pbFKWgciLlvRUEugYGBAJQM08jfbqbr_lYA7mtTDCgACdWc5NDuii_HPMS0ubISoYtsJzIctTXfHyV-lCb3zhMpFiZokghlCF-P9eZwk/s1600/i-030041-m20-birthday-set-1-378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguS3V8FeVws-K3VKY7Fxhamy-zvQduuIjzoaN4pbFKWgciLlvRUEugYGBAJQM08jfbqbr_lYA7mtTDCgACdWc5NDuii_HPMS0ubISoYtsJzIctTXfHyV-lCb3zhMpFiZokghlCF-P9eZwk/s400/i-030041-m20-birthday-set-1-378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I work regularly with Clinique and have been fortunate enough to try a fair bit of their skincare and makeup, which I love! The skincare is always so effective, while the makeup is fun, vibrant and pigmented. This set is curated with several of the Clinique bestsellers, including the Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion+, Pep-Start 2-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser, Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm and Pop Matte Lip Colour & Primer. It's the perfect set to travel with, so you really can't get much better! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/clinique/mecca20-best-of-clinique-set/I-030041.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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<b>10) FRANK Body MECCA20 Birthday Suit Coffee Scrub $21.95</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qAEtWcH3Cscz5rrF6e0UjWZEXfRhtVktxBndb851lMtwiRv4Mb4eo4KasF_YOvYmTDNpBiXKNBtdWAJ1iBgUTpTyI8vBoSw65KAR0JcnMAzY7HdciR6HXrqGpKkxH_-WvmYOVgiPmx_n/s1600/i-028661-mecca-20-birthday-suit-coffee-scrub-1-378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qAEtWcH3Cscz5rrF6e0UjWZEXfRhtVktxBndb851lMtwiRv4Mb4eo4KasF_YOvYmTDNpBiXKNBtdWAJ1iBgUTpTyI8vBoSw65KAR0JcnMAzY7HdciR6HXrqGpKkxH_-WvmYOVgiPmx_n/s400/i-028661-mecca-20-birthday-suit-coffee-scrub-1-378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image provided by Mecca)</td></tr>
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I love the Frank coffee scrub because it smells really good and exfoliates beautifully without abrading the skin. I always feel invigorated after using it, and I love that this limited edition scent smells like vanilla birthday cake! More info <a href="http://www.mecca.com.au/frank-body/mecca20-birthday-suit-coffee-scrub/I-028661.html?cgpath=collections-mecca20">here</a>.<br />
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There you have it, lovelies, my top ten picks from the collection! How awesome is it that so many brands have participated in curating special items/sets that are <i>exclusively</i> available at Mecca?! There are a total of 48 items in this collection, so head on over and take a look. Tell me which ones appeal to you, I'd love to know what you think!<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x</div>
The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-21287262996267498082017-07-04T23:54:00.001+10:002017-07-04T23:54:24.882+10:00NOTD: Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!Hi lovelies,<br />
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You know, I usually have some form of nail art every week, yet I either run out of time to take photos (<i>I take all my photos in natural light and so I have to wait for the weekends because the sun is gone by the time I get home on weekdays</i>), or I simply forget to share and get distracted by other things...I've been a bad blogger!<br />
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It did strike me a few days ago that the Fourth of July was coming up, so I decided to come up with some Independence Day inspired nails. I pulled out one of my favorite polishes, a deep electric blue by a brand called Eclipse. It's such a beautiful shade on it's own that I had to share a couple of photos.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFjYIfVuUWBreV3ci5AksmZyYtbIY6ds3bTivBX2p9BSF5_fmjUa-IolXhLYb9j6qhM4lCed39B4kxjvKdcFV6cHkhGMJ5N7Tku8f4u3QiuYI7qNegIpyMPmbLvFyn-mG6XBp5IxfvXzF/s1600/IMG_1715+%2528800x750%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFjYIfVuUWBreV3ci5AksmZyYtbIY6ds3bTivBX2p9BSF5_fmjUa-IolXhLYb9j6qhM4lCed39B4kxjvKdcFV6cHkhGMJ5N7Tku8f4u3QiuYI7qNegIpyMPmbLvFyn-mG6XBp5IxfvXzF/s640/IMG_1715+%2528800x750%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL89x9-BWeGPCbbs8SwarKSu1rm_84_L7PjaUcUsVW4moEYPWPCdjxsKToaHR4EyjdVRM0Q5lobVx_d_P0B0W3F6qqclcPz-2GlhYM0PHgCsdCwSxLCGjNZYSbv2Z7ea85-YYC_ZIAm3v/s1600/IMG_1719+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="734" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL89x9-BWeGPCbbs8SwarKSu1rm_84_L7PjaUcUsVW4moEYPWPCdjxsKToaHR4EyjdVRM0Q5lobVx_d_P0B0W3F6qqclcPz-2GlhYM0PHgCsdCwSxLCGjNZYSbv2Z7ea85-YYC_ZIAm3v/s640/IMG_1719+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't remember where I bought it from and there's no name on the label, only the number #611. I then used a thin striping brush to paint on red polish (<i>Zoya Karina</i>) over white polish (<i>Sally Hansen White On</i>), before topping it with a red diamante.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UfQ5NuKw34L-aRwi0HDoMcAqvOWBoWqWqLyFkB_pD4kiBFTlxRozBlGChZSMnJnKI6AIYN3L8cIz_KGVtrwuzieT5NPsOZbssxsXLWjyPVtfrQlDzWjqufb3IOZ2BSjn9EW0Mx9Gd35L/s1600/IMG_1733+%2528800x754%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="800" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UfQ5NuKw34L-aRwi0HDoMcAqvOWBoWqWqLyFkB_pD4kiBFTlxRozBlGChZSMnJnKI6AIYN3L8cIz_KGVtrwuzieT5NPsOZbssxsXLWjyPVtfrQlDzWjqufb3IOZ2BSjn9EW0Mx9Gd35L/s640/IMG_1733+%2528800x754%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!</td></tr>
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<b> Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY6M-e5zM_E9jfIPI2-3pYqzfTRO3i1m9wfJcveIO5er3gO1GU_UyXftgGzq_sSvNHecRJaL-9HFaDj35da5vDB2SoUY7Fu4hAdLzJxl3CZCkcJ7Pkw8NigWTkR9W1c1ab64HFY_kIhmB/s1600/IMG_1743+%2528800x785%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="800" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY6M-e5zM_E9jfIPI2-3pYqzfTRO3i1m9wfJcveIO5er3gO1GU_UyXftgGzq_sSvNHecRJaL-9HFaDj35da5vDB2SoUY7Fu4hAdLzJxl3CZCkcJ7Pkw8NigWTkR9W1c1ab64HFY_kIhmB/s640/IMG_1743+%2528800x785%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGjQiebldTCV4mwrVgltMeX034R2mhO1PQm-q1xMulXwHRV7vloftDCvO7n5c7lpH_3SupMBH_94RYUFWfnWbhD-xASZMdwM_jLXHKJJ58eKoOI20Wr8-u8a-sH7Il0DsTZQQ4iAo-pzMQ/s1600/IMG_1744+%2528759x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="759" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGjQiebldTCV4mwrVgltMeX034R2mhO1PQm-q1xMulXwHRV7vloftDCvO7n5c7lpH_3SupMBH_94RYUFWfnWbhD-xASZMdwM_jLXHKJJ58eKoOI20Wr8-u8a-sH7Il0DsTZQQ4iAo-pzMQ/s640/IMG_1744+%2528759x800%2529.jpg" width="606" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth of July 2017 Manicure!</td></tr>
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Simple but festive! What do you think of this manicure? If you're in the States, how will you be celebrating Independence Day?<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS - Linking up with the Monday Makeup Madness link, so click <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/monday-makeup-madness-112-link-up.html">here</a> to have a look at what the other amazing ladies have come up with!</span><br />
<br />The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-19576073269717710052017-05-25T00:32:00.004+10:002017-05-25T00:37:17.956+10:00Spend vs Splurge : Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance eyeshadow palette vs BYS Cosmetics Berries eyeshadow palette. Hi lovelies!<br />
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As you all know, the Anastasia Beverly Hills (ABH) Modern Renaissance palette is probably one of the most sought after palettes of all time. It's a palette I've owned for a while now, and it's truly a beautiful palette with a range of unique, yet wearable shades that will flatter any skintone. It's also a palette that I know many of my readers have had trouble getting their hands on, due to it selling out so quickly.<br />
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That's one of the reasons I was so excited when I attended a blog event that BYS Cosmetics held a couple of weeks ago, as I knew that one of their best selling palettes, the Berries palette, was said to be a fantastic dupe of the Modern Renaissance palette. Luckily, we were fortunate enough to receive one in our goodie bag from the event, so I was really excited to try it and report my findings back for all of you!<br />
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As the photo shows, both palettes are very similar at first glance, but let's take a closer look and see how close the comparison <i>really</i> is, shall we?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cNhExZk-5EZXjMt_8OSjwQAHROZuQgYQGUfMgest_aaKD2Hp8uLQO7gQrnCARrGIqEI79M9HKCLVjvRkUKW7rsBHESgWyAFTySAPGbZgoJUdXeN2OrUo16wmaWVV7_QWAVbaVgUMFY80/s1600/IMG_0424+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cNhExZk-5EZXjMt_8OSjwQAHROZuQgYQGUfMgest_aaKD2Hp8uLQO7gQrnCARrGIqEI79M9HKCLVjvRkUKW7rsBHESgWyAFTySAPGbZgoJUdXeN2OrUo16wmaWVV7_QWAVbaVgUMFY80/s640/IMG_0424+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spend vs Splurge: Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance (top) vs BYS Cosmetics Berries (bottom) palettes.</td></tr>
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First up, let's talk packaging. Both palettes have a similar colour scheme, but the Modern Renaissance is packaged in a velvet feel cardboard palette with a magnetic clasp while the Berries is housed in a click-shut tin. The Modern Renaissance is also a little shorter and wider than the Berries palette, which bears a striking resemblance to the Urban Decay Naked Palettes (<i>specifically, the 2, 3 and Smoky</i>) in design. In this instance, I have to say I have a personal preference for the Berries packaging; the Modern Renaissance does feel a bit more luxurious but the velvet feel means you have to take extra care not to get it dirty (<i>especially if you are a neat freak like me</i>), and the Berries just feels more sturdy overall.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJ5rmkvutEd_t2RJrDxwd-JGo2mIquBm-k8eWDv6DGXzDFIsrHFI93RPmeXvf-LT-DzIWgO4zpF6kAPUBCU_QhMirxjQamQ04amE6RkpJAr3b7_iIPcEwYDfFLv8vY5NatoXJGfaD34kV/s1600/IMG_0425+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJ5rmkvutEd_t2RJrDxwd-JGo2mIquBm-k8eWDv6DGXzDFIsrHFI93RPmeXvf-LT-DzIWgO4zpF6kAPUBCU_QhMirxjQamQ04amE6RkpJAr3b7_iIPcEwYDfFLv8vY5NatoXJGfaD34kV/s640/IMG_0425+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance (top) vs BYS Cosmetics Berries (bottom) palettes.</span></td></tr>
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In terms of the brushes/applicators that are provided with each palette, the Modern Renaissance wins, as you get a double ended blending/shading brush while the Berries only offers two small double ended sponge applicators and brushes, though the quality is decidedly lower than that of the Modern Renaissance brush. To be honest, this doesn't matter overly much to me as I have my favored blending brushes (<i>Zoeva, in case you were wondering</i>) which I use for all my eye makeup looks, but it's a nice inclusion to have a good quality brush included if you take the palette travelling. Both palettes also have a mirror inside, which is always a nice touch (<i>scroll down to the last photo to have a look at the mirror in the Berries palette</i>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1xBdy5X-EQKvXEJ1Vkb-STRQooIFy2V1B_ak8EfMeq0EZ5YGpX0AaOxV6j_vCrFUDiFmmoMRwK80PiVEkeuUrljebVKMG0gKJUasS5lIiqvD_aw8mjwjy_FAH_ZGwnZmGvf-jtrp5iDc/s1600/IMG_0422+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1xBdy5X-EQKvXEJ1Vkb-STRQooIFy2V1B_ak8EfMeq0EZ5YGpX0AaOxV6j_vCrFUDiFmmoMRwK80PiVEkeuUrljebVKMG0gKJUasS5lIiqvD_aw8mjwjy_FAH_ZGwnZmGvf-jtrp5iDc/s640/IMG_0422+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Spend vs Splurge: Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance (top) vs BYS Cosmetics Berries (bottom) palettes.</span></td></tr>
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Now, let's take a look at the actual shadows. Both palettes have names for each of the shades, which is always helpful. You get 14 shades with the Modern Renaissance, and 12 with the Berries. The shadows in the Modern Renaissance are smooth, buttery, pigmented and don't have much fall out, with the exception of a couple of shades, which I find is commonplace with more matte shades. Some of the shades are pretty close to my skintone, as you can see in the swatch photo below, which means that it doesn't really pop on my skin as much as I'd like. My personal favorite shades from the Modern Renaissance are Love Letter, Primavera, Red Ochre and Venetian Red.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgB8OjzcfpgK6VAmHsT2wACr31Ci6uNsw-apN7Le-9LJW0HTPZYPlTFLYwNfSMQ-Vsg1wc3fekrtpech3c12SWjqsrpS1jdyuM-d0jhLk9ILX-U86FUT3dAK0hL6me6SRWcTBq5TtfH8A/s1600/IMG_0429+%2528800x594%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="800" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgB8OjzcfpgK6VAmHsT2wACr31Ci6uNsw-apN7Le-9LJW0HTPZYPlTFLYwNfSMQ-Vsg1wc3fekrtpech3c12SWjqsrpS1jdyuM-d0jhLk9ILX-U86FUT3dAK0hL6me6SRWcTBq5TtfH8A/s640/IMG_0429+%2528800x594%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance palette.</span></td></tr>
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The shadows in the Berries palette are also incredibly smooth and pigmented, and I didn't find much fall out either, which really surprised me! Similar to the Modern Renaissance, some of the more matte shades do have a bit of fall out, but it's nothing that a light sweep with a fan brush won't fix. I find that these shades somehow suit my skintone a bit better, as almost all of them are noticeable on my skin. My personal favourites from this palette are Radiance, Glow, Cherry Bomb, Juliet and Antique.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLMVnmPCqEQER8sl9bJir_nzyY2gxA91zPxY7PRiFTGZEIQD5tFlRYbXkHnLr4wjwWzVHhmMrkcPMhGlhkw26_mw0jV9YCBZP4kspuJCBE9Y3WIFnsxsZF4ubLCSmOuJF-RSFJOVUtVq8/s1600/IMG_0432+%2528800x594%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="800" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLMVnmPCqEQER8sl9bJir_nzyY2gxA91zPxY7PRiFTGZEIQD5tFlRYbXkHnLr4wjwWzVHhmMrkcPMhGlhkw26_mw0jV9YCBZP4kspuJCBE9Y3WIFnsxsZF4ubLCSmOuJF-RSFJOVUtVq8/s640/IMG_0432+%2528800x594%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">BYS Cosmetics Berries palette.</span></td></tr>
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In terms of quality/application, I'd say both palettes are beautiful to work with, with shadows that blend together beautifully. I do believe that the quality of the Modern Renaissance is <i>slightly</i> superior, but the quality of the Berries palette is still remarkable.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDKadtC_hcBUPJ7ZwvV5V0w-jBL-oYH_37_VeouZTAXNyDa1D_A-yqyxcX0kz_0GVEEqCTrrRCK-UXCPjSi4qw7nvlV__CExLfF1AOJu6XbcZtCAI4vjowtdu0E5zgr20uoN7Z2HvJwSP/s1600/IMG_0423+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDKadtC_hcBUPJ7ZwvV5V0w-jBL-oYH_37_VeouZTAXNyDa1D_A-yqyxcX0kz_0GVEEqCTrrRCK-UXCPjSi4qw7nvlV__CExLfF1AOJu6XbcZtCAI4vjowtdu0E5zgr20uoN7Z2HvJwSP/s640/IMG_0423+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Spend vs Splurge: Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance (top) vs BYS Cosmetics Berries (bottom) palettes.</span></td></tr>
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What about the price, you ask? This comes down to one of the most important points in this discussion. The Modern Renaissance retails for $75 at Sephora Australia, while the Berries retails for a much more reasonable sum of $20.<br />
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What's my verdict? Truthfully, I really love both palettes, and couldn't pick one over the other...but I think the spend vs splurge question comes down to personal preference. If you're someone who loves quality items and also prides herself on collecting high end pieces, you can't go wrong with the Modern Renaissance palette. However, if you're usually someone who only wears neutral shades and need some practice getting comfortable with using colours, the Berries might be a great way to dip your toes in at a much more reasonable cost. It's also a lot easier to get your hands on the Berries than the Modern Renaissance, which is usually sold out (<i>though the Modern Renaissance is currently available AND on sale at Sephora Australia for 20% off if you're a black or gold member at the time of writing this blog post</i>).<br />
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There you have it, lovelies, my review of both these palettes! Now, tell me honestly, which palette would you pick?<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: The BYS Berries palette was kindly provided in a goodie bag for editorial consideration, while the Modern Renaissance was purchased with my own money. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-79902483899781935792017-05-11T22:58:00.000+10:002017-05-11T23:02:41.464+10:00Lush Cosmetics Mother's Day 2017 Limited Edition Collection!Hi lovelies,<br />
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I can't believe Mother's Day is almost upon us! This year has flown by, I can't believe that we're in May already!<br />
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Anyhow, without further ado, let me introduce the latest Lush Cosmetics limited edition Mother's Day collection to you, in case you're still in a dither about what present to choose the most important lady in your life...<br />
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I was especially in love with this collection because Lush brought back Yummy Mummy (<i>read my review on that <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2015/05/lush-cosmetics-review-of-yummy-mummy.html">here</a></i>), which is only my favourite ever Lush Shower Gel of all time! LIKE, REALLY.<br />
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Anyhow, without further ado, let's take a look at some of the offerings that were kindly sent my way to share with you all, shall we? I was generously gifted with a total of 7 products, which I'll go into more detail below.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIe4CEaUnFqwBjLv81qp-t4zH1bzgE87XjAFq1_-EsBQV-w_INL3Y_fhK7xvJbg9w1DqeqlIfgG2t3AifiS23Koryr2lcG_xdJzXfO0ujh7guER2o-3Yoqqd8oh6B_XbjIGCMUJ_cZcEjC/s1600/IMG_0247+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIe4CEaUnFqwBjLv81qp-t4zH1bzgE87XjAFq1_-EsBQV-w_INL3Y_fhK7xvJbg9w1DqeqlIfgG2t3AifiS23Koryr2lcG_xdJzXfO0ujh7guER2o-3Yoqqd8oh6B_XbjIGCMUJ_cZcEjC/s640/IMG_0247+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Mother's Day Collection 2017</td></tr>
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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I'm going to start with the Yummy Mummy shower cream (<i>available in 3 sizes, ranging between $10.50 to $32.95</i>) because it's one of things I'm most excited about. This smells absolutely delightful, with the deep notes of sweet tonka, orange and geranium. It's quite a sexy scent! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe8Go26TJbr42K_jv_FrH7cl6YdxrjPwayjGg_nanG1ZJ37H0TmxdCE4gaMBYuaPJhzDY_-ofaeP3nxAip00RslVLcRDZxdFvJsZVvuIe36mRn7TIP7XFibc95OIna9wfEWUGD7vTSFQS/s1600/IMG_0254+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe8Go26TJbr42K_jv_FrH7cl6YdxrjPwayjGg_nanG1ZJ37H0TmxdCE4gaMBYuaPJhzDY_-ofaeP3nxAip00RslVLcRDZxdFvJsZVvuIe36mRn7TIP7XFibc95OIna9wfEWUGD7vTSFQS/s640/IMG_0254+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Yummy Mummy Shower Cream</td></tr>
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Next up, we have to talk about Lush's speciality, the bath bombs! One of the stars of this collection is the Mum bath bomb (<i>$6.95</i>), which comes in two variations - pink (<i>pictured below</i>) and yellow. This smells beautiful, with lemon, orange and rose notes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOt9qeASEs5jyxIAquLM3Xhn-Xe5593JDRL2jIN7bJAIm0SZpYefH6p-qD2dXCKioFsQIbc4z4ecHsulXEiE0dIbGFkr8t8N58WyenPtJ-T9-T4JpfgHs5xrur4YAs1WzhHiCyhPgvm_S/s1600/IMG_0251+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOt9qeASEs5jyxIAquLM3Xhn-Xe5593JDRL2jIN7bJAIm0SZpYefH6p-qD2dXCKioFsQIbc4z4ecHsulXEiE0dIbGFkr8t8N58WyenPtJ-T9-T4JpfgHs5xrur4YAs1WzhHiCyhPgvm_S/s640/IMG_0251+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Mum Bath Bomb</td></tr>
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Another cute addition is the Baa Bar (<i>$8.95</i>), the cute sheep shaped bath bar with its lavender, rose and ylang ylang fragrance. It's also got soya milk which is meant to add softness to your skin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmnPov26e9rSRyEH_hbCfSPytcavvDvI94DYqW7hjbmLNCO_Dj3I_GT65IARqzVkGqoNfIbgvT1eJSnE6aC3yotbbtnBCzzvzmN6gTubE8YaekV2NjqTDDEHC9QsNAXOPflrG8xr1Bfyt/s1600/IMG_0253+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmnPov26e9rSRyEH_hbCfSPytcavvDvI94DYqW7hjbmLNCO_Dj3I_GT65IARqzVkGqoNfIbgvT1eJSnE6aC3yotbbtnBCzzvzmN6gTubE8YaekV2NjqTDDEHC9QsNAXOPflrG8xr1Bfyt/s640/IMG_0253+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Baa Bar Bath Bar</td></tr>
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The Ups-A-Daisy bath bomb (<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>$7.95</i></span>) is also really adorable, with its bright and cheerful shades! It's meant to gently dissipate rosewood, rose and orange oil fragrances into the bath water, to give mum a sunny, uplifting bath.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8fJcv4Pp5KKMFyAIbJglDtzMiYrqCnrVatmz_GPADQVwFMzXUZ61IDcxHlmc10-la4LiO9KhnbWA2yNFvMY-umbBwMn9Qjk_9lFGos92a-lAp0Gi4Cimba5yVDoedVdUUcTG24VOpMt4/s1600/IMG_0255+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8fJcv4Pp5KKMFyAIbJglDtzMiYrqCnrVatmz_GPADQVwFMzXUZ61IDcxHlmc10-la4LiO9KhnbWA2yNFvMY-umbBwMn9Qjk_9lFGos92a-lAp0Gi4Cimba5yVDoedVdUUcTG24VOpMt4/s640/IMG_0255+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Ups-A-Daisy Bath Bomb</td></tr>
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As winter is almost upon us, I was really happy to see a body butter in the same of the cute Scrubee (<i>$14.95</i>) included in this collection. Made from honey and cocoa butter, this will gently exfoliate your skin while ensuring that the moisture levels in the skin aren't stripped away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7I5Fw32B1CDAPi2eOKGthsO_cHrjh2DtstOg1QR6B30mNNlIHngSX0xjHWS6psnEygPMIw99HhTGO1KDz6XTWH-gEJhru4gHu6cHDictT6F5MjrTcP30OYBdx1T7DY4HQlXM2csn-SMx/s1600/IMG_0252+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7I5Fw32B1CDAPi2eOKGthsO_cHrjh2DtstOg1QR6B30mNNlIHngSX0xjHWS6psnEygPMIw99HhTGO1KDz6XTWH-gEJhru4gHu6cHDictT6F5MjrTcP30OYBdx1T7DY4HQlXM2csn-SMx/s640/IMG_0252+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Scrubee Body Butter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There are two other bath bombs in the range, called Your Mother Should Know and Elsie the Giraffe (<i>which is double ended</i>)! Don't forget to check these out.<br />
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The Pink Custard shower jelly (<i>$7.95/$12.95</i>) takes a little getting used to with its pudding-like consistency, but adds an element of fun to the shower. It's also perfect for traveling with, and smells lovely with its tonka and lavender scents!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGXfoNSwm2pAhbsPj6-dWKUTPPix8Yz7Auew6pker1-a0sIh3aD1hNe3-o_snVWMEOfZfWzvCnyqbnmVP7TgF88NyK7h1AONIsM8Dk_FW1glvyChFPfHwy8MevHqrTAAdde7-SzZ2w4iq/s1600/IMG_0250+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGXfoNSwm2pAhbsPj6-dWKUTPPix8Yz7Auew6pker1-a0sIh3aD1hNe3-o_snVWMEOfZfWzvCnyqbnmVP7TgF88NyK7h1AONIsM8Dk_FW1glvyChFPfHwy8MevHqrTAAdde7-SzZ2w4iq/s640/IMG_0250+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Pink Custard Shower Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Last but not least, a lip scrub...now you all know how much I adore the Lush lip scrubs and hoard them greedily...Honey (<i>$9.95</i>) will definitely be a favourite of mine, the sweet scent of honey is kept from being too overpowering with the fresh scent of mint. It will definitely help mum keep her kissers in top condition!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJlUcDVohGdE5pz7VMGKWITbrojl3fCnmWf8QLKW8z8YT9Nk2kMZOqHCCT15pwKqj1VXWZ3m9K81jzm35-OIW3q4V1UTZByk9rW_VTTVApQ-I5pKPtiyO2LURXu2IQlZLWe7rDqVtPVwu/s1600/IMG_0256+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJlUcDVohGdE5pz7VMGKWITbrojl3fCnmWf8QLKW8z8YT9Nk2kMZOqHCCT15pwKqj1VXWZ3m9K81jzm35-OIW3q4V1UTZByk9rW_VTTVApQ-I5pKPtiyO2LURXu2IQlZLWe7rDqVtPVwu/s640/IMG_0256+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Honey Lip Scrub</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There you have it, lovelies, are you excited by these offerings? There is also a soap bar in this collection, and a range of Mother's Day packages which offer different combinations of the above goodies. I'll leave you with one last photo of the collection, isn't everything gorgeous? This has to be one of my favourite collections they've come up with yet!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxW0WYIzVgFunkWxGgIZ41hsWsg0rm8WxC8EFIg8g7JnbA013ixPJhOSGtTyU0Dofw4aHw-5haM6yfMXKcbihZ3L_O0emMnWFdWE0lKXJWoQD5ue_0YMdeZTPyHxk4I8GCa0RCaKpNTA-/s1600/IMG_0259+%2528800x756%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxW0WYIzVgFunkWxGgIZ41hsWsg0rm8WxC8EFIg8g7JnbA013ixPJhOSGtTyU0Dofw4aHw-5haM6yfMXKcbihZ3L_O0emMnWFdWE0lKXJWoQD5ue_0YMdeZTPyHxk4I8GCa0RCaKpNTA-/s640/IMG_0259+%2528800x756%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Lush Mother's Day Collection 2017</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Which of these is your favourite, lovelies? Let me know in the comments!<br />
<br />
The Lush Mother's Day collection is available until the 14th of May, both in-store and <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/mothers-day">online</a>. Head on over and check it out!<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-20793310793744046392017-02-28T00:27:00.000+11:002017-02-28T00:39:18.450+11:00NARSissist Limited Edition Unfiltered I Cheek Palette Review + Swatches!Hello beauties,<br />
<br />
Boy, do I have a treat in store for you! Did you know that NARS have two new <b>limited edition</b> cheek palettes called the NARSissist Unfiltered I and II? I've always loved the NARS blushes and wanted to expand on my collection, but I prefer doing it in a palette because it's so much more convenient than filling up my blush drawer with singles. I picked up the NARSissist Unfiltered 1 palette last year from Sephora US, and a friend of a friend kindly mailed it to me in January.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JJNZMUM3n7Rdip8sxFu9hlEJc9uYkKhVcaiHSyzvvlMSX24pIGeQ-ZLl4C6gPR1k59dL8mgi6PobivhNLR4WWncvw95ThwKqyXindLU5aO_V92QUb3dosLFiY8MZr6MrI3oGdjZjqBWK/s1600/IMG_7606+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JJNZMUM3n7Rdip8sxFu9hlEJc9uYkKhVcaiHSyzvvlMSX24pIGeQ-ZLl4C6gPR1k59dL8mgi6PobivhNLR4WWncvw95ThwKqyXindLU5aO_V92QUb3dosLFiY8MZr6MrI3oGdjZjqBWK/s640/IMG_7606+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NARSissist Limited Edition Unfiltered I Cheek Palette.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen it popping up on my feed quite a bit, but I wanted to wait to share my review until today, because it launches at MECCA <u style="font-style: italic;">today</u>!!! Isn't it gorgeous?!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KvfC9gHwuLgWzHYRS-b2s_6ZS46DwvZg4il6t-qfWJQ6qGq8rGDPItVqSVFKn9k3G2vV7zOptdqAnfqVhblGyNgASqRCG8yx54DNqDPQ28tHwtpW66fz96BiusZLH7YTE6h-pXVySBXY/s1600/IMG_7603+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KvfC9gHwuLgWzHYRS-b2s_6ZS46DwvZg4il6t-qfWJQ6qGq8rGDPItVqSVFKn9k3G2vV7zOptdqAnfqVhblGyNgASqRCG8yx54DNqDPQ28tHwtpW66fz96BiusZLH7YTE6h-pXVySBXY/s640/IMG_7603+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">NARSissist Limited Edition Unfiltered I Cheek Palette.</span></td></tr>
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Before I go any further, I'll just make a quick apology for the square format of the photos, I accidentally irretrievably deleted all the photos I took for this blog save the swatch photo, so I had no choice but to use the square ones I took for Instagram.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EIYy9jvsPA6D8cPq0w2LJoNmrkDLkSB-cVnlb9SJfRrFEToFMXEmg-o0rEpdFGcVY-Rixfs4LM7yrbQXZDwaX9l3sPmarvueODKRbcH8OXY2lrlT1IeheCYdlhT-_e2QvcXccMhdjb1E/s1600/IMG_7601+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EIYy9jvsPA6D8cPq0w2LJoNmrkDLkSB-cVnlb9SJfRrFEToFMXEmg-o0rEpdFGcVY-Rixfs4LM7yrbQXZDwaX9l3sPmarvueODKRbcH8OXY2lrlT1IeheCYdlhT-_e2QvcXccMhdjb1E/s640/IMG_7601+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">NARSissist Limited Edition Unfiltered I Cheek Palette.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On to the review! Each NARSissist palette is housed in a mirrored casing, with the colour of the lid reminiscent of the shades within. The Unfiltered I is the darker, warm toned version (<i>which frankly, I found a little surprising as the paler shades are usually the first in a series</i>) and has a deep orange lid (<i>similar to the box pictured above</i>), while the Unfiltered II is paler, more cool toned and has a pale pink lid. Each palette has a sturdy click closure and a mirror on the inside, which is good if you like touching up your blush during the day or want to take the palette travelling.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2J7oSwImzzR3El6bzflmEmauie-yD-HDT82v5YlOa9mmXIObXmOjzTQXhEFgvoD1kv7H7FYhyNpMOuXsKNilKho1o4M22y8TUKQSBMp-OpPFaIFslgN6CGpW1D9TWzg8z9VlWBVwPhy3w/s1600/IMG_7604+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2J7oSwImzzR3El6bzflmEmauie-yD-HDT82v5YlOa9mmXIObXmOjzTQXhEFgvoD1kv7H7FYhyNpMOuXsKNilKho1o4M22y8TUKQSBMp-OpPFaIFslgN6CGpW1D9TWzg8z9VlWBVwPhy3w/s640/IMG_7604+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">NARSissist Limited Edition Unfiltered I Cheek Palette.</span></td></tr>
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Each palette has five limited edition blushes and one iconic shade in matte, sheen and shimmer finishes. I quite like that because it means that die-hard fans won't be doubling up on their collections. The shades in the Unfiltered I palette are as follows, with all the shades being limited edition except for Exhibit A:<br />
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Left to right (top row):<br />
<br />
Watch Me - Opalescent gold (sheen)<br />
Me First: - Pale apricot (sheen)<br />
Takeover - Bronze rose (sheen)<br />
<br />
Left to right (bottom row)<br />
Out There - Warm brick (matte)<br />
Chic - Warm russet (matte)<br />
Exhibit A - Red (matte)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyWza476D0WGP_uV6LyfAy2tCgW01ynyQNshsdQvYOitXdciaF5NgSqafPxhlY_cI8xw_0Wcjn11sXMVamD7yhKozKLjra61aTydxxBXzeVM7p2UeIbT9nIbNRgKonL8jn_k62jKWHFSJ/s1600/IMG_8328+%2528800x576%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyWza476D0WGP_uV6LyfAy2tCgW01ynyQNshsdQvYOitXdciaF5NgSqafPxhlY_cI8xw_0Wcjn11sXMVamD7yhKozKLjra61aTydxxBXzeVM7p2UeIbT9nIbNRgKonL8jn_k62jKWHFSJ/s640/IMG_8328+%2528800x576%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swatches (L-R): Watch Me, Me First, Takeover, Out There, Chic and Exhibit A.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The blushes are smooth, finely milled, and incredibly easy to work with, with intense pigmentation. Even 'Me First', the palest of the five (<i>excluding the highlight shade 'Watch Me'</i>) really popped on my skin, and it was easy to build up if I wanted stronger colour. The three bottom shades are so pigmented that even the slightest touch of the brush can deposit a lot of colour, but luckily, it's easy enough to blend out so you don't end up looking like an escapee from clown school. All the shades have really good longevity, and I get about 7-8 hours of wear before they begin to fade on me. I think it's great that NARS have come up with some really deep shades in this palette, as a lot of blush palettes only have very pale shades which only suit about half the population. I love all six shades, but I'm especially attached to Takeover, Out There and Exhibit A.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj537WWY5-ubCrU1VJGEsPMah-PxMigsfs2aYXdGLqxfZwFKVMUMPCb9n9ZboVMQGutPKb4mbuH-KJ070hBCHL4KVPBot2S0zy2VUgUHahpRY_Lj-65G8S7xebhauQk4jZwvwuqdiA1x3L5/s1600/nars_unfilteredtwo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj537WWY5-ubCrU1VJGEsPMah-PxMigsfs2aYXdGLqxfZwFKVMUMPCb9n9ZboVMQGutPKb4mbuH-KJ070hBCHL4KVPBot2S0zy2VUgUHahpRY_Lj-65G8S7xebhauQk4jZwvwuqdiA1x3L5/s640/nars_unfilteredtwo001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from Temptalia - read her review <a href="http://www.temptalia.com/nars-unfiltered-ii-cheek-palette-review-photos-swatches/">here</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In case you're curious, here's what Unfiltered II looks like, with all the shades being limited edition with the exception of Hot Sand:<br />
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Left to right (top row):<br />
<br />
Conquest - Peach (matte)<br />
Undefeated - Pale pink (shimmer)<br />
Power Play - Barbie pink (matte)<br />
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Hot Sand - Pale peachy pink (sheen)<br />
Fame - Coral (sheen)<br />
Candid - Plum (shimmer)<br />
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I believe the Unfiltered I would really suit medium to deep skintones, while the Unfiltered II would be better suited to fair skintones.<br />
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Overall, I really love my Unfiltered I palette, and I would highly recommend it. Each Unfiltered palette contains six pans weighing 3.6 g each and will cost $85 at <a href="http://mecca.com.au/">Mecca</a>, which is really good value considering that a full sized blush is sized at 4.8 g and costs $44. I'll leave you with one last photo of this in a flatlay, to help you imagine what it would look like on your vanity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOLhpqI_wcHiljGaSPT0sUeI7VdcPdTzLR5rGidFMWE_sG1_4c8bn1qKBHel3ic1bLdM0YHlDU5isFflZ6bEBGEf_EUDBwHjx0z3yzCBWHL4RwCfJIjtA6m4BlKntbL-GtcWxpI5g-Ita/s1600/IMG_8431+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOLhpqI_wcHiljGaSPT0sUeI7VdcPdTzLR5rGidFMWE_sG1_4c8bn1qKBHel3ic1bLdM0YHlDU5isFflZ6bEBGEf_EUDBwHjx0z3yzCBWHL4RwCfJIjtA6m4BlKntbL-GtcWxpI5g-Ita/s640/IMG_8431+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What do you think of these palettes, lovelies? Which one catches your fancy, Unfiltered I or II?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">PS- Linking up with the lovely Ingrid again, so don't forget to check out the other posts <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/monday-makeup-madness-94-link-up.html">here</a> for some light reading!</span></i><br />
<br />The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-39624390737177065152017-02-22T08:00:00.000+11:002017-02-22T08:00:34.316+11:00Rimmel London The Only 1 Matte Review + Swatches!Hello lovelies,<br />
<br />
There's a new matte in town, have you heard? The Rimmel London The Only 1 Matte lipsticks finally launched here in Australia this month, and I've been blown away by how phenomenal they are! The original The Only 1 lipstick range was pretty awesome, but in my humble opinion, these are so much better. That could be because I'm a tad bit obsessed with matte lipsticks at the moment, but these truly are just a little bit special.<br />
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The brand has this to say about the lipsticks - "<i>The perfect balance of high impact matte colour, moisture, all day comfort and staying power</i>".<br />
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Let's take a closer look and see how it delivers, shall we?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2LKIQx_Ec7PpsI0wH3529sLtdoYT9gZD298SPspErQanv_Ip5mgRxuNFsPND5O-qmX1Z6W4Z0bCBd3M8Ev67LhZxCHoAQnRT9Jz5G5_3WvNjOsIUCWfjYgEHPUHYjdTe4dqUiRApZ0ef/s1600/IMG_7924+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2LKIQx_Ec7PpsI0wH3529sLtdoYT9gZD298SPspErQanv_Ip5mgRxuNFsPND5O-qmX1Z6W4Z0bCBd3M8Ev67LhZxCHoAQnRT9Jz5G5_3WvNjOsIUCWfjYgEHPUHYjdTe4dqUiRApZ0ef/s640/IMG_7924+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rimmel London | The Only 1 Matte Lipsticks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As always, let's talk packaging. These are packaged in a slimline, distinctive red tube which is easy to identify in any makeup bag or handbag. The bullet is slanted, which makes getting a precise application a cinch, as it glides easily around the contours of your lips.<br />
<br />
The lipsticks also have a distinctive floral scent which is pretty true to all the Rimmel lipsticks. I don't mind it too much (<i>though I wouldn't say it smelled as good as my Kylie or Huda Beauty lipsticks</i>) and it's not discernable once on the lips, but it's something that people with sensitive olfactory senses might want to note.<br />
<div>
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3_zEjxJ7v3_dJpz0CU3BKHH0iOh7DCF_bU3Nvu-Cyc5Tp9VKHnjREtea9dmlxNnLxziShhu6lW2Xznpg6S5IlNOGzC9SRxeezs_mB7GQzSHdbd2-doBZ1ocDF1wn8InqT4-QEhfPHw-F/s1600/IMG_7921+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3_zEjxJ7v3_dJpz0CU3BKHH0iOh7DCF_bU3Nvu-Cyc5Tp9VKHnjREtea9dmlxNnLxziShhu6lW2Xznpg6S5IlNOGzC9SRxeezs_mB7GQzSHdbd2-doBZ1ocDF1wn8InqT4-QEhfPHw-F/s640/IMG_7921+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rimmel London | The Only 1 Matte Lipsticks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pigmentation, feel and texture of the lipsticks are mindblowing. They glide effortlessly over the lips without pulling or tugging, and it's easy to achieve opacity with one or two easy swipes. Like any lipstick, these can accentuate dry patches a little, but they definitely aren't drying and they're so comfortable on the lips it almost feels like you aren't wearing anything at all. a<br />
<br />
Wear time is really decent, as I can wear these for hours without needing to touch up, unless I eat something really messy. Touching up is also really effortless because of the creamy formula, you can easily reapply without getting that 'crunchy' feeling on your lips that some liquid lipsticks provide.<br />
The Only 1 Matte lipsticks are available in 9 shades, listed below. In hindsight, I should have listed them by numbering order, but I've chosen to list them in the manner in which I photographed the swatches below.<br />
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#700 Trendsetter - nude brown<br />
#200 Salute - nude pink<br />
#610 High Flyer - rosy nude<br />
#110 Leader of the Pink - bubblegum pink<br />
#750 Look Who's Talking - true brown<br />
#500 Take the Stage - orange based red<br />
#810 The Matte Factor - deep red<br />
#120 Call the Shots - bright pink<br />
#800 Run the Show - bright purple<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBRa3h3_h7akajiIy-NOcTY_UbGtZYgNEnRdXjikcu-QY-HiZ6IEeuYrKnih_yi9A9V93omy1I7z2IY-cCz1G9y4n4z1xAfJrYN2GsqwXIDTMvGgECmmTp_DS42VCy4D2DhtO8Y9yJTDY/s1600/IMG_7929+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBRa3h3_h7akajiIy-NOcTY_UbGtZYgNEnRdXjikcu-QY-HiZ6IEeuYrKnih_yi9A9V93omy1I7z2IY-cCz1G9y4n4z1xAfJrYN2GsqwXIDTMvGgECmmTp_DS42VCy4D2DhtO8Y9yJTDY/s640/IMG_7929+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rimmel London | The Only 1 Matte Lipsticks.<br />
L-R: Trendsetter, Salute, High Flyer, Leader of the Pink, Look Who's Talking, Take the Stage, The Matte Factor, Call the Shots and Run the Show.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think there's actually quite a good selection of shades in the range, with several options for everyday wear, as well as dark and bright shades tossed in. I'm completely fascinated by that purple, though I've yet to wear it out! My personal favourites are High Flyer for work appropriate wear, The Matte Factor for wow factor and Run the Show purely for how unique it is!<br />
<br />
I believe this lipsticks retail for $15.95, and are available at standard Rimmel London stockists like Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, Woolworths, Coles, Big W and Target.<br />
<br />
What do you think of these, lovelies? Will you be running out to get some? Which colour appeals the most?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</i></span>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-18683106194720728862017-02-07T00:27:00.001+11:002017-02-07T00:35:51.426+11:00Lush Cosmetics - Fall in Lush Valentine's Day 2017 Collection!Hi lovelies!<br />
<br />
Happy New Year! Yes, it does seem a bit late wishing you all Happy New Year in February (<i>and how did we get here, anyway? It seems like it was just New Year's Day a couple of days ago</i>), but seeing as I haven't blogged in a while, better late than never, right? I think my blogger resolution will be to blog at least once a week. I can't imagine how I used to work full time and get 2-3 posts out a week, when it's such a struggle now. Potentially a sign of getting <b>*cough*old<i>er</i>*cough</b>? So if you've stuck with me this long, I really want to say a heartfelt thank you, because I value each and every one of you deeply. Also, if you'd like to hear more from me than on a weekly basis, do follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/themadeupmaiden/">Instagram</a> because I'm usually on there at least once a day and I'm super friendly, so come say hi!<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I'm back with a bang because I have some beautiful, limited edition goodies from the Lush Valentine's Day Collection to share with you! In case it's slipped your radar, Valentine's Day is in 7 days, but luckily, Lush are here with lots of great gift ideas for your significant other (<i>or it's fine if you want to just keep it for yourself</i>). Isn't this a perfectly pink offering?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStOfGis66MdrxZzVmDt8IM1442Byi2Zl8lt6QA34dVTDlDQRzhZL1oTLqqVoVTrypE2RqazCYfA0vrx76HC3PDvQjiwyxK3vDOkGSld1qgvyym8aggXFevoZHE3hEa70fIw4j_x7ipvix/s1600/IMG_7590+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStOfGis66MdrxZzVmDt8IM1442Byi2Zl8lt6QA34dVTDlDQRzhZL1oTLqqVoVTrypE2RqazCYfA0vrx76HC3PDvQjiwyxK3vDOkGSld1qgvyym8aggXFevoZHE3hEa70fIw4j_x7ipvix/s640/IMG_7590+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Cosmetics 2017 Limited Edition Valentine's Day Collection.</td></tr>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a>Now, there are a total of 13 items in the collection, not including the limited edition packs containing a mixture of all of these. I was kindly sent the Cupid Bath Bomb, the Love You, Love You Lots Soap, The Kiss Lip Scrub and The Kiss Lip Gloss, all pictured below.<br />
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<b>Cupid Bath Bomb</b> ($6.95) is an adorable concoction of rose and bergamot, and it's just too cute for words. There are three other bath bombs in the range, Lover Lamp (<i>citrus and vanilla absolute</i>), Over and Over (<i>lime, fennel oil and citrus</i>) and Rose Bombshell (<i>rose petals, rose absolute and rose oil, with lemon and geranium</i>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZWQgp81PGwGINF-SV3roW7ntq92fMVOc6VNxH3zMZIOBxhCdjMfJJVoMtaPBFvIWnusuzhD1_3Y_H934qb_yDcvKN_JInTUSpDgiNH117NS-a0kyEhyc8Xale7Av6bOgMzHXw-Dp5y5i/s1600/IMG_7592+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZWQgp81PGwGINF-SV3roW7ntq92fMVOc6VNxH3zMZIOBxhCdjMfJJVoMtaPBFvIWnusuzhD1_3Y_H934qb_yDcvKN_JInTUSpDgiNH117NS-a0kyEhyc8Xale7Av6bOgMzHXw-Dp5y5i/s320/IMG_7592+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Cosmetics Cupid Bath Bomb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I also received a piece of the <b>Love You, Love You Lots</b> Soap ($6.95 per 250g), which has rose petal infusion, rose oil, rose syrup and even rose petals. This smells absolutely delightful, and is a lovely, feminine addition to any bathroom. It's also available in a Shower Cream called <b>Prince Charming</b>, which I plan to pick up soon. Pair it with the <b>Love Spell </b>Massage Bar, which contains cocoa butter enriched with rose hip syrup and spicy carnation absolute to moisturise your skin after your shower.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_WsX_x_ClqmI8T0-6Ad-6EwzLGYvGbIn-EvdzkGUpGdNA2ku30fmb0zB_I93B-sse0F4_J01uCG6-r1Nr-B_yScBI83Z0TXfAXNsGmz5phrS6kLUIJm55VO5pCfz9fF6E6a0-0OrKhm6/s1600/IMG_7593+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_WsX_x_ClqmI8T0-6Ad-6EwzLGYvGbIn-EvdzkGUpGdNA2ku30fmb0zB_I93B-sse0F4_J01uCG6-r1Nr-B_yScBI83Z0TXfAXNsGmz5phrS6kLUIJm55VO5pCfz9fF6E6a0-0OrKhm6/s640/IMG_7593+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Cosmetics Love You, Love You Lots Soap.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This brings us to my favourite items in the collection, <b>The Kiss</b> Lip Scrub and Lip Gloss ($9.95 each)! I am addicted to the Lush lip scrubs and always have one in my shower to exfoliate my lips, and I love that they often come up with limited edition options from time to time. The Kiss is made up of sea salt, sugar and cocoa butter, and smells absolutely delicious! It also has cute little pink hearts inside, so you will want to pick this up to get your lips smooch ready for the big day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIPIp9vo6aipWUN20tRiUSRDXAt9MXLUFApUkZGLy_L9bTUNRzG_KseYCeaHYkQ3W6o3InQ4p4xuegZnLAhibfMXYzHCg6PjvccPtOgA-B2PnmwPVlypyq28Z-fJR4oH8lF9nQFQc6z97/s1600/IMG_7594+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIPIp9vo6aipWUN20tRiUSRDXAt9MXLUFApUkZGLy_L9bTUNRzG_KseYCeaHYkQ3W6o3InQ4p4xuegZnLAhibfMXYzHCg6PjvccPtOgA-B2PnmwPVlypyq28Z-fJR4oH8lF9nQFQc6z97/s640/IMG_7594+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Cosmetics The Kiss lip gloss and lip scrub.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Follow the lip scrub with <b>The Kiss</b> Lip Gloss, which is essentially a moisturising lip balm which gives a slight sheen to your lips. It's really subtle but feels very moisturising. As I'm totally addicted to liquid lipsticks of late, I like topping them off with The Kiss for a moisture hit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpK04gL_XmawY5NmJ7ZqlZy32_doFpF_2M6DlQP3gI1Nl76_h33QhkCUbidfvCJwUZhOrdDhEral9nfrKW1xg7aosNU2PRHx8CrQAtbxJ4zdiWIg9uwCQ96M7X9HaCewfj2hdLstQt0mM/s1600/IMG_7597+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpK04gL_XmawY5NmJ7ZqlZy32_doFpF_2M6DlQP3gI1Nl76_h33QhkCUbidfvCJwUZhOrdDhEral9nfrKW1xg7aosNU2PRHx8CrQAtbxJ4zdiWIg9uwCQ96M7X9HaCewfj2hdLstQt0mM/s640/IMG_7597+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush The Kiss lip gloss.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The last four products I haven't mentioned are a Bubble Bar called <b>Unicorn Horn</b>, and three Bath Melts called <b>Lovestruck, Ladybird </b>and<b> Two Hearts Bathing as One.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Everything in the range is priced quite affordably, starting from $6.95 and going up to $32.95, while the gift packs range from $14.95 to $59.95. This range is available both in-store and <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/valentines-day">online</a> from the 26rh of Jan to the 14th of February, so don't dawdle!<br />
<br />
What do you think of this range, lovelies? What's your favourite product so far?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">PS- I'm linking up with the lovely Ingrid from Fabulous and Fun Life so don't forget to check out the other links this week <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/monday-makeup-madness-91-link-up.html">here</a>!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-85152821812172513632016-12-12T16:59:00.000+11:002016-12-12T17:02:32.070+11:00Barry M Vintage Violet and Cling Wrap Nail Art Mani! Hi lovelies,<br />
<br />
I recently picked up this gorgeous polish called Vintage Violet from Barry M, and it's completely captured my heart!<br />
<br />
Vintage Violet is what I would call a smokey, blackened violet creme, and it's such uniquely gorgeous shade that would fit a lot of skintones.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxMJ79WNFNOTJGx6x4cmTj-0zVJfv6U22EdW2rwkwlA17e3PkahQJEW6zj2IrKsa6OvEiyK96c5pvDq8_JpCz7TLYIkde3zc1fbKErqat4VwvjfNt-LS8RIXHgirvaMbPEygDLbKG8XYR/s1600/IMG_8919+%2528800x743%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxMJ79WNFNOTJGx6x4cmTj-0zVJfv6U22EdW2rwkwlA17e3PkahQJEW6zj2IrKsa6OvEiyK96c5pvDq8_JpCz7TLYIkde3zc1fbKErqat4VwvjfNt-LS8RIXHgirvaMbPEygDLbKG8XYR/s640/IMG_8919+%2528800x743%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CRkfqCjTxWvp9x-AF0cP7uj_QpkRjkPyDdhwkM0z2aWOD14FslNwvalEyCMYdKTbJO-uBXEZwOrpUmrmUiXuHPyhMzWpdJrBSH19oiOffcIE2lG-vOPFy9bgQEfTB-587QrXlexwGFDo/s1600/IMG_8917+%2528765x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CRkfqCjTxWvp9x-AF0cP7uj_QpkRjkPyDdhwkM0z2aWOD14FslNwvalEyCMYdKTbJO-uBXEZwOrpUmrmUiXuHPyhMzWpdJrBSH19oiOffcIE2lG-vOPFy9bgQEfTB-587QrXlexwGFDo/s640/IMG_8917+%2528765x800%2529.jpg" width="610" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8B__wGcffMrJRH4bYMQg_QcPBMLLd3f-a7VhPO0PUKyzZhIieBviogL9POnqBHtVWECpJbmYHiy0kUscKiRs1-SEH8CIp1_SE7EMVtJeBL42KP7uYTQpbLnzYBe2us9QC5EgIesV_j6i/s1600/IMG_8925+%2528743x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8B__wGcffMrJRH4bYMQg_QcPBMLLd3f-a7VhPO0PUKyzZhIieBviogL9POnqBHtVWECpJbmYHiy0kUscKiRs1-SEH8CIp1_SE7EMVtJeBL42KP7uYTQpbLnzYBe2us9QC5EgIesV_j6i/s640/IMG_8925+%2528743x800%2529.jpg" width="590" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As much as I loved it on its own, though, I was struck with an idea of exploring what it looked like as an undercoat, with a holographic shade stamped on top using the cling wrap technique (<i>my tutorial <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2012/09/notd-goldblack-cling-foil-nail-art.html">here</a>, its a bit cringeworthy because it's from my early blogging years, but you should get the idea</i>).<br />
<div>
I used a pink shade with a blue shift from Hit The Bottle polishes and really liked how it turned out!<br />
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8q2Pz-MXkyfXqYqMJHkCOWA29qJp65Rf5z9ZuxsmSgrnLOT3qMB1oPhssMRBtzT6_GfFrp4SE2ADeAaZtAdckaAf1f79pP9DnH7f24vlJ9a4y9l5h2ud-g4SpEpD4iZz-pErKnIL7AZSq/s640/IMG_9097+%2528789x800%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="630" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet with holographic polish stamping.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbCll-k2ul7qloTUgDUoNAhWBO94z5SkK5AxoCH95g6KH9Jyg2jNZ-4QYvFs4F0APQdZTxposJ2CRiw65-lpE4bdsFMZYMF-XrbmRGHELEbUYr3Oc7iG0mF84G8V6MwieFcyLifU5R-j_/s1600/IMG_9099+%2528727x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbCll-k2ul7qloTUgDUoNAhWBO94z5SkK5AxoCH95g6KH9Jyg2jNZ-4QYvFs4F0APQdZTxposJ2CRiw65-lpE4bdsFMZYMF-XrbmRGHELEbUYr3Oc7iG0mF84G8V6MwieFcyLifU5R-j_/s640/IMG_9099+%2528727x800%2529.jpg" width="580" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet with holographic polish stamping.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-2TWv8V-j3A-ehhyjICqhbUpRDbK-zb2MThn47KLq9OPGjZ_heIe7gXlu-PmsbGHUcxPdymF-a5SXyFrh2iBGAee6fK70k3hyiRAVOtZQpOdUBX_wHPx5GIc-r-JU1aW5azhlKuuKlio/s1600/IMG_9104+%2528768x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-2TWv8V-j3A-ehhyjICqhbUpRDbK-zb2MThn47KLq9OPGjZ_heIe7gXlu-PmsbGHUcxPdymF-a5SXyFrh2iBGAee6fK70k3hyiRAVOtZQpOdUBX_wHPx5GIc-r-JU1aW5azhlKuuKlio/s640/IMG_9104+%2528768x800%2529.jpg" width="610" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet with holographic polish stamping.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje7VET1n_atA849QV-tGQdLKccbQLtsj-yIdoucfw3uBkoqhJ3H7sU34nknPA3zBUGTYWQx60DU2EeSACRTV5r3XzPdDS_g-Njln47Q4nWJ_by1qFbIyw-fwXF5cUAM22CHBokJOGjEhHc/s1600/IMG_9106+%2528800x761%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje7VET1n_atA849QV-tGQdLKccbQLtsj-yIdoucfw3uBkoqhJ3H7sU34nknPA3zBUGTYWQx60DU2EeSACRTV5r3XzPdDS_g-Njln47Q4nWJ_by1qFbIyw-fwXF5cUAM22CHBokJOGjEhHc/s640/IMG_9106+%2528800x761%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry M Vintage Violet with holographic polish stamping.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What do you think of this mani, lovelies? I think it has a look that reminds me somewhat of Mother of Pearl. Vintage Violet is available for about $8 from Big W stores, if you need to know where to find it.<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>PS- Linking up with Ingrid's blogger link over at <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2016/12/monday-makeup-madness-85-link-up.html">Fabulous and Fun Life</a> so head on over there for some light reading!</i></span></div>
</div>
The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-24129354211344922082016-12-07T16:40:00.000+11:002016-12-09T11:02:44.978+11:00TBX (The Beauty Exchange) - Magnetic Brushes Review!Hi lovelies,<br />
<br />
I was recently sent some magnetic brushes and accompanying accessories <i>(the Clique rectangle brush holder and medium cosmetic bag</i>) from new(<i>ish</i>) Australian brand The Beauty Exchange, also known as TBX, and the nerd in me was super excited to try these! Something about the idea of magnetic brushes just gets me excited, and I also love that they're an Aussie company.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d7F6Bb81E0KOhsyH1sFWQwD_cJUrh9k6A40AbxGtirDGw_3V8H8b1dSAhyphenhyphenwEsj823qeSDyBjmgFuokJkmlMCmOCYyE9tpzntJcNM8IhP5oQ_yJwwsV8ttjyoXGCq1jy-7-JFC6BXxE3o/s1600/IMG_4583+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d7F6Bb81E0KOhsyH1sFWQwD_cJUrh9k6A40AbxGtirDGw_3V8H8b1dSAhyphenhyphenwEsj823qeSDyBjmgFuokJkmlMCmOCYyE9tpzntJcNM8IhP5oQ_yJwwsV8ttjyoXGCq1jy-7-JFC6BXxE3o/s640/IMG_4583+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beauty Exchange - TBX Magnetic Brushes </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
First up, let's talk about the brushes. Each brush is sleek, slim and black, all of which rendered them immediate hits with me! The bases of each brush are flat, which enables you to easily attach them to any magnetic surface (<i>but more on that later</i>). I was generously gifted with the six brushes below, namely the fan highlighter brush, foundation brush, eyeshadow brush, foundation buffer brush, stippling brush and concealer brush.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZrGqpU0C5qSZf2ZezNzc_QWdB0gGgAHNRW6AU5lcewCX8DJaBkv0DmiWuwP7vrKRtInpBgqODxQt-_8fkoKXBXCfu7CXU-rwlF6_-6wWTITPelV0x1l77ZUicEnZfFcjRUo0hje9ilZu/s1600/IMG_4559+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZrGqpU0C5qSZf2ZezNzc_QWdB0gGgAHNRW6AU5lcewCX8DJaBkv0DmiWuwP7vrKRtInpBgqODxQt-_8fkoKXBXCfu7CXU-rwlF6_-6wWTITPelV0x1l77ZUicEnZfFcjRUo0hje9ilZu/s640/IMG_4559+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beauty Exchange - TBX Magnetic Brushes </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ1Dxt20ASMnfrqSF0lFBJ-zxSAcsdAunbBR9YU6YtPI6yjRmEreIcgdI5vobFSSg6e1HFTfdBUezeswfJdn2cnHc39RfsrN2aEcdy52v2dyGvSHJ7DatCInPP06phk7p9KvjZdDCkvpK/s1600/IMG_4566+%2528800x635%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ1Dxt20ASMnfrqSF0lFBJ-zxSAcsdAunbBR9YU6YtPI6yjRmEreIcgdI5vobFSSg6e1HFTfdBUezeswfJdn2cnHc39RfsrN2aEcdy52v2dyGvSHJ7DatCInPP06phk7p9KvjZdDCkvpK/s640/IMG_4566+%2528800x635%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beauty Exchange - TBX Magnetic Brushes<br />
L-R: Stippling, foundation buffer, foundation, fan, concealer and eyeshadow brushes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyLXgUqWl4_3Wjqu7twcp2mYX9OpbNEFv63SLW94dCHUE-QawyB51fT7mwMJ3w6zlopVUeP16pBNzxnBaXz7EXGxhr_dQoHzGgXJO4-WTDG5X3PaKWhh1dX0OGOmg48fRAqc0gBcjOKk7/s1600/IMG_4569+%2528800x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyLXgUqWl4_3Wjqu7twcp2mYX9OpbNEFv63SLW94dCHUE-QawyB51fT7mwMJ3w6zlopVUeP16pBNzxnBaXz7EXGxhr_dQoHzGgXJO4-WTDG5X3PaKWhh1dX0OGOmg48fRAqc0gBcjOKk7/s640/IMG_4569+%2528800x640%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beauty Exchange - TBX Magnetic Brushes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The stippling brush retails for $22.95 and consists of soft, densely packed synthetic fibres. While it can be used with cream, liquid and powder, I prefer using this with my liquid/cream blushers, and I sometimes also use it to apply powder to set my foundation.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWAoC8BwEnYY-xPllTsuiM1cWdRSgJE4qxnPNZxMgCjP8RWYHkfWULxSSWcFd1Mg_f1yWrf1yRVE1S5e_-MRDVEXPQr2IqejUFBU2ZCtSjiqEux1rDA87cGkX4UMvnSw3BwuS5mS8SxR6/s1600/IMG_4570+%2528800x632%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWAoC8BwEnYY-xPllTsuiM1cWdRSgJE4qxnPNZxMgCjP8RWYHkfWULxSSWcFd1Mg_f1yWrf1yRVE1S5e_-MRDVEXPQr2IqejUFBU2ZCtSjiqEux1rDA87cGkX4UMvnSw3BwuS5mS8SxR6/s640/IMG_4570+%2528800x632%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Stippling Brush.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The foundation buffer brush ($22.95) is also made up of synthetic fibres. It's incredibly dense, but it's so small that it does take a while to go over your entire face. The application it provides is pretty good, but I prefer using my Zoeva Grand Stippling brush for the whole face and then using this brush in tighter spots like around the nose/eyes. I quite like using this with my Hourglass Vanish Foundation stick.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKDkqB_GUYBByovr3X1-oS9S9wN2I_i44hNpsa3Y9Y8FPaG5lMWiDtSLjT07KpeEnIiP8wCfZUhImelRnEN15LaCgilaEThILkk6y4o2C0EoqfeLTEvhrVcAOBClcWFRW62-1khtWvCKa/s1600/IMG_4571+%2528800x604%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKDkqB_GUYBByovr3X1-oS9S9wN2I_i44hNpsa3Y9Y8FPaG5lMWiDtSLjT07KpeEnIiP8wCfZUhImelRnEN15LaCgilaEThILkk6y4o2C0EoqfeLTEvhrVcAOBClcWFRW62-1khtWvCKa/s640/IMG_4571+%2528800x604%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Foundation Buffer brush.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The foundation brush also retails at $22.95. It's synthetic fibres work quite well at applying liquid and cream foundations without leaving streaks. I do like this brush but out of personal preference, prefer using my BeautyBlender or the Zoeva Grand Stippling brush as it just seems a lot faster.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVznm96vDoLMZZrZiiSCfLPs0t0gX_CMvY-UTGGPpumo8gGj_6vpZEGidOtddYkOzo39arDyuzINs7JHtkoEzQcCLx_YcDWQ-VAMZuvhwi7GXit4N605DsKy1dlBShFvuk9I0EQSsW7H7P/s1600/IMG_4572+%2528800x673%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVznm96vDoLMZZrZiiSCfLPs0t0gX_CMvY-UTGGPpumo8gGj_6vpZEGidOtddYkOzo39arDyuzINs7JHtkoEzQcCLx_YcDWQ-VAMZuvhwi7GXit4N605DsKy1dlBShFvuk9I0EQSsW7H7P/s640/IMG_4572+%2528800x673%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Foundation Brush.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The highlighter brush ($22.95) is probably my favourite out of all the brushes. Made of natural badger hair, it's a little stiffer than some of the other fan brushes I own, but still works beautifully at dispensing the right amount of highlighter on the cheekbones. I also like using it to gently brush away any fallout from applying my eyeshadow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONkw1SiXpD_Ike6bAqGW5jnzw4Rbb9P_xHLTRkKHFf28xjsuoMux8crntviCSjiO75stylTxt9QEbKX3utxSYnEHik3JcUOIIA_7wPn-ygLksMu8ZzZfpAaYwnj8M4qLzuK0Gn2yOYJtN/s1600/IMG_4573+%2528800x624%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONkw1SiXpD_Ike6bAqGW5jnzw4Rbb9P_xHLTRkKHFf28xjsuoMux8crntviCSjiO75stylTxt9QEbKX3utxSYnEHik3JcUOIIA_7wPn-ygLksMu8ZzZfpAaYwnj8M4qLzuK0Gn2yOYJtN/s640/IMG_4573+%2528800x624%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Fan Highlighter Brush.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The concealer brush and eyeshadow brush (both $14.95) are pictured below. The concealer brush is synthetic while the eyeshadow brush is made from natural fibres. I've used the concealer brush more on blemishes, as I prefer to use my fingers for under eye circles. The eyeshadow brush, on the other hand, is my second favourite brush of the lot, as it's great for packing shadow on the mobile lid, while the domed head is good for creating a cut crease!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XcgLzU6AodDrlZw3WTe-SkW9tPbPODQdxAA2Yw3xwnrOVUi1-PkwjcDC3aQ-oJ0XkSPy-qIUZ7d9OXT9COUbeafXSuwJnIlhlJlZ34YrXzHgGhfC8JIXyjwMkM2-1LSkm7Lva7a_b0VP/s1600/IMG_4574+%2528800x634%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XcgLzU6AodDrlZw3WTe-SkW9tPbPODQdxAA2Yw3xwnrOVUi1-PkwjcDC3aQ-oJ0XkSPy-qIUZ7d9OXT9COUbeafXSuwJnIlhlJlZ34YrXzHgGhfC8JIXyjwMkM2-1LSkm7Lva7a_b0VP/s640/IMG_4574+%2528800x634%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Concealer and Eyeshadow Brushes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Just a quick mention, I also really like the mesh cosmetic bag ($29.95) from the brand. It allows you to see inside so you can easily identify the products inside, and is both large and compact enough that you can carry a decent amount of products inside <i>(together with the brushes, of course</i>), and yet still fit it comfortably in your handbag. Perfect for both daily touch ups and also the occasional overnight stay!<br />
<br />
The coolest feature, though, would have to be the Clique rectangle brush holder. This is magnetised so that you can hang your makeup brushes upside down once you've washed them! This prevents water from seeping into the ferrule and damaging the brush. Isn't that nifty?! You can still attach the brushes to anything magnetic to dry them upside down, but the Clique just adds an extra 'cool' factor, and makes a lovely display.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcywJmAi5gCmGe4z3fpvr11HuoixRyRNWPUPvDT0x7zTSo28r0U6VInLz4w-hzCePt_Vsjr3AOV0-_ByKqoCqFswc8P0i5cgQfm3kp7eUfVhkgWQYngvYiuo2lBaFEjKKe32DPG5_An8nj/s1600/IMG_4581+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcywJmAi5gCmGe4z3fpvr11HuoixRyRNWPUPvDT0x7zTSo28r0U6VInLz4w-hzCePt_Vsjr3AOV0-_ByKqoCqFswc8P0i5cgQfm3kp7eUfVhkgWQYngvYiuo2lBaFEjKKe32DPG5_An8nj/s640/IMG_4581+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TBX Clique Rectangle Brush Holder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Verdict? I really like these! The only downside is that it's hard to store the brushes in a cup holder, as the magnetised handles tend to stick together. Still, it's not impossible, and just more something to be aware of.<br />
<br />
I'd definitely be keen to try the other brushes in the brand, and they also have a range of accessories which look quite pretty. What do you think of these brushes, lovelies?<br />
<br />
You can shop the range online <a href="http://www.ry.com.au/search/?q=tbx">here</a>, make sure to check out the GWPs on offer!<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>PS- I'm linking up with the lovely Ingrid from Fabulous and Fun Life so don't forget to check out the other links this week <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2016/12/monday-makeup-madness-84-link-up.html">here</a>!</i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-91934081947764443742016-11-23T23:58:00.005+11:002016-11-24T00:11:06.236+11:00Shu Murakami - Shu Uemura x Takashi Murakami Limited Edition Collaboration Review + Swatches!Hi lovelies,<br />
<br />
Did you know that Shu Uemura have collaborated with renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami for the cutest collaboration? This is actually the second time they've collaborated, the first time was back in 2013! This 2016 holiday collection focuses heavily on Takashi Murakami's '<i>Flower'</i>, which is meant to represent love, hope, peace and the wonder of poetry and magic in this world (<i>aside from being intensely adorable, of course</i>).<br />
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There are quite a number of things in the collection, of which I have three to show you in the photo below. I was kindly gifted with an eyeliner and a lipstick from the collection, and being the crazed Shu Uemura cleansing oil fan that I am (<i>you can read my mini review on one of the Shu cleansing oils <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2012/08/introducing-my-hg-favourites-edition-1.html">here</a>)</i>, I also leaped at the chance to pick up a new cleansing oil in the limited edition packaging, so I dashed into the Shu Uemura counter at my nearest David Jones to <strike>snatch this off the shelf</strike> <b><i>*ahem*</i></b> buy the Anti/Oxi+ pollutant and dullness clarifying cleansing oil (<i>$50</i>).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqw7dE49G2BpUDn1Judz9nVBCxfHLbj-UbxlukFdf6NHSwIlb4e_IYrvPEXw9whfq18cOpm4FWI2ubPcW-yHiliEb6-BdqDnROGYwWeKLoQvY1vw631Qn6XHRWGTTbUvjnCJQJmqu-MvGR/s1600/IMG_6015+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqw7dE49G2BpUDn1Judz9nVBCxfHLbj-UbxlukFdf6NHSwIlb4e_IYrvPEXw9whfq18cOpm4FWI2ubPcW-yHiliEb6-BdqDnROGYwWeKLoQvY1vw631Qn6XHRWGTTbUvjnCJQJmqu-MvGR/s640/IMG_6015+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami - Shu Uemura x Takashi Murakami Limited Edition Collection.</td></tr>
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Isn't the collaboration just too gorgeous for words? Keep reading after the jump!</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ouu7TS5ES2ltkKp7jjffzJDgKj65S-i4V9ewXZHnNG1n0FL9Fb4ZwlO4Y8A0zWQ1qPVWv3INW4VVZUR-aeJndOoCy6bb5kJkoXsmqS9cE13iE5aHU8KOqAOnuiz-MB_iwJdtNRWq5V2w/s1600/IMG_6019+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ouu7TS5ES2ltkKp7jjffzJDgKj65S-i4V9ewXZHnNG1n0FL9Fb4ZwlO4Y8A0zWQ1qPVWv3INW4VVZUR-aeJndOoCy6bb5kJkoXsmqS9cE13iE5aHU8KOqAOnuiz-MB_iwJdtNRWq5V2w/s640/IMG_6019+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shu Murakami - Shu Uemura x Takashi Murakami Limited Edition Collection. </span></td></tr>
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Aside from the cleansing oil, which is more of a necessity really (<i>don't you just love how we beauty junkies can justify things?</i>), my favourite item has to a lipstick. There are five shades in the collection, and the one pictured is the rouge unlimited, WN255 (<i>$42)</i>. What's interesting is two of the lipsticks have names (<i>Rouge Bloom and Pinky Bloom, while the remaining three are just a set of letters and numbers - OR520 and RD164</i>).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXq2Je5BPIG3zdcnql6b1c_1TWpGW6ENQotPRQvr8oKodEuM584VEvBYfY9Gus75EYWa6unrx2eM58q_W-aMQep4hak5Rh_SeiqbILxABH12yFioomC4lrXZMvn-ipvILWbZSN3sM2yvb/s1600/IMG_5879+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXq2Je5BPIG3zdcnql6b1c_1TWpGW6ENQotPRQvr8oKodEuM584VEvBYfY9Gus75EYWa6unrx2eM58q_W-aMQep4hak5Rh_SeiqbILxABH12yFioomC4lrXZMvn-ipvILWbZSN3sM2yvb/s640/IMG_5879+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami Lipstick in WN255</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaF4fM7Dpg__xfpYjVipZRTZybnK8PnoGWKCxm_y7-YGzTKMILQh5jMStKP2cvkxQr3n254K6jmKGjcPRunignlCXXs_CVZcoo_6mfCFelJbwGi8WZIi_zRpk3Y5-a4TQlFuaBW6mIVa2/s1600/IMG_5880+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaF4fM7Dpg__xfpYjVipZRTZybnK8PnoGWKCxm_y7-YGzTKMILQh5jMStKP2cvkxQr3n254K6jmKGjcPRunignlCXXs_CVZcoo_6mfCFelJbwGi8WZIi_zRpk3Y5-a4TQlFuaBW6mIVa2/s640/IMG_5880+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shu Murakami Lipstick in WN255</span></td></tr>
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I was also sent the Cosmic liner in Me Navy 61 (<i>$34</i>), which is a gorgeous deep blue! It's my first Shu Uemura pencil and I was really impressed at how pigmented and smooth it was, and it was also really difficult to take off as it stayed put once it set! This is also available in black, purple and brown in the limited edition range.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgsZyZUVIZqYrDPuYiAlR1m76QJqepw26Z5x0oVopRwPfOyEwRTAgzCf-MgnNvALZoyM2YFezeRqR6_2ocrKrXanuuXLg_P0qaboKxezzv8sy0GwW0V69HnNCfCEDjApYXid0rfVvBjUJ/s1600/IMG_5885+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgsZyZUVIZqYrDPuYiAlR1m76QJqepw26Z5x0oVopRwPfOyEwRTAgzCf-MgnNvALZoyM2YFezeRqR6_2ocrKrXanuuXLg_P0qaboKxezzv8sy0GwW0V69HnNCfCEDjApYXid0rfVvBjUJ/s640/IMG_5885+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami Liner in Me Navy 61</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHpHtPYKUPewgAWG0mm0Pr-52BSZOJ74UOvxqpu_B-Pl5dpI6bx2CmYOGir4a9mKDl8Xp6fFkVeaqHuMcLJYkhzVjVAupsgeHyR04ZHe-PuyZviR41rfBSygB-eQT92cBGJVCdjTbh-9u/s1600/IMG_5887+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHpHtPYKUPewgAWG0mm0Pr-52BSZOJ74UOvxqpu_B-Pl5dpI6bx2CmYOGir4a9mKDl8Xp6fFkVeaqHuMcLJYkhzVjVAupsgeHyR04ZHe-PuyZviR41rfBSygB-eQT92cBGJVCdjTbh-9u/s640/IMG_5887+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shu Murakami Liner in Me Navy 61</span></td></tr>
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As you can see from the swatches below, the lipstick has a balmy, almost glossy, sheer finish, which is very comfortable on the lips. I would describe WN255 as a rosy nude pink, and it's also lovely when worn over a lip liner for added depth.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVDTBAhrKsUiP7tWJKcY3a5bXG5XbiBxt-a4ZI_QTWfiKUBvXh-Zq14Pf10qkQmsRRMNhykWv_06qRrHdRb2Y22_EUggpTKZ8v_VD-JN4IWmSo8Z_HY35Yy8oBe5ugE0zxY2TI0hw3UVF/s1600/IMG_5892+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQVDTBAhrKsUiP7tWJKcY3a5bXG5XbiBxt-a4ZI_QTWfiKUBvXh-Zq14Pf10qkQmsRRMNhykWv_06qRrHdRb2Y22_EUggpTKZ8v_VD-JN4IWmSo8Z_HY35Yy8oBe5ugE0zxY2TI0hw3UVF/s640/IMG_5892+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami swatches: Me Navy 61 liner (L) and rouge unlimited lipstick in WN255 (R).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kqYYRQmvKHQQyaijzPYLv2o9DRG32bIfzunsIgwEYmOudVBrrlRhHLnTondHrpAOPKvJPrRtOVp2hTL8nEMnRKoF-D_nRGzdKfYz9rFnAwnUXKvzx1GAVjcEzJnA92YCmoW5KGirdGVJ/s1600/IMG_6016+%2528800x769%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kqYYRQmvKHQQyaijzPYLv2o9DRG32bIfzunsIgwEYmOudVBrrlRhHLnTondHrpAOPKvJPrRtOVp2hTL8nEMnRKoF-D_nRGzdKfYz9rFnAwnUXKvzx1GAVjcEzJnA92YCmoW5KGirdGVJ/s640/IMG_6016+%2528800x769%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami Limited Edition Collection - Shu Uemura x Takashi Murakami Collaboration.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEico6G7Gy-eIgZoP3mXOve4TSp0dldAcjxlvobJLn917JPHBxjUR_95W2M_0yjiMrDGZmqTm6vyQjG_s05V58wxqxjg4T4ti4sWTTPL2iZyB1LsFkXEgbSV63yk5mMklce-1qDzvb8r6fDF/s1600/unnamed.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEico6G7Gy-eIgZoP3mXOve4TSp0dldAcjxlvobJLn917JPHBxjUR_95W2M_0yjiMrDGZmqTm6vyQjG_s05V58wxqxjg4T4ti4sWTTPL2iZyB1LsFkXEgbSV63yk5mMklce-1qDzvb8r6fDF/s640/unnamed.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Shu Uemura.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are a lot of products in this collaboration, namely eyeshadow palettes, trios, a custom compact case, the cleansing oil, block booster (<i>primer + spf base</i>), foundation compact case, curler, brush set and makeup box set. You can have a look at the entire collection on the <a href="http://shuuemura.com.au/en/">website</a>, or at a Shu Uemura counter at David Jones (<i>or from the David Jones website</i>).<br />
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My personal favourite has to be the CosmiKawaii eye and cheek palette pictured below, isn't it gorgeous?!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHScu4GhWjfMasfKU2wOwBb4m_WgmkoIE7Hk8W1SmZPX83iM97VH5G092fUxIb-rLVANJCN0PhIGGXyS41yKxxyqmni3I1-c6AmckHQ1ROMk6EiBKjgK2GoFuGFa4fFEY-IeSHNtysC4F5/s1600/thumb_variation_RED_view_02_430x460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHScu4GhWjfMasfKU2wOwBb4m_WgmkoIE7Hk8W1SmZPX83iM97VH5G092fUxIb-rLVANJCN0PhIGGXyS41yKxxyqmni3I1-c6AmckHQ1ROMk6EiBKjgK2GoFuGFa4fFEY-IeSHNtysC4F5/s400/thumb_variation_RED_view_02_430x460.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shu Murakami CosmiKawaii Eye and cheek palette<br />(image from the Shu Uemura website)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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What do you think, lovelies? Will you be racing in to get anything from the limited edition collection?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM<br />
x<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: The lipstick and eyeliner were kindly provided for editorial consideration, while I purchased the cleansing oil. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-66392161622767870502016-10-31T15:18:00.000+11:002016-10-31T15:19:01.280+11:00Halloween 2016 Makeup Look! Hi lovelies,<br />
<br />
As I mentioned in my Lush Halloween post <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2016/10/lush-cosmetics-halloween-2016-collection.html">yesterday</a>, Halloween is one of my favourite times of year!<br />
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I wanted to do something simple this year, so here's what I came up with. I'm not very happy with it as I tried to use a glow-in-the-dark base underneath the makeup, and not only did it NOT glow, it also made it really hard for me to apply makeup on top, which is why some of it looks so blurry and smeary. The lighting was also pretty bad as I took it in the light of my vanity table after work, and natural lighting would have been much better! Never mind, more room for improvement next time!<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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Honestly, I think the lips were my favourite part!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDq45C6tuQOKxkiz2Wva1Au8hkJmQJBkJkubqd34kicg81vYmkV7Wl12NhGrX8umEl4YKhO2gxEdIlp3M9bLbDMXboIPmxwMTh5gE7saXDCSEjEFTOyFYhhhtKuyUaOdyfyAanMQB2Kd5c/s1600/IMG_5246+%2528750x750%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDq45C6tuQOKxkiz2Wva1Au8hkJmQJBkJkubqd34kicg81vYmkV7Wl12NhGrX8umEl4YKhO2gxEdIlp3M9bLbDMXboIPmxwMTh5gE7saXDCSEjEFTOyFYhhhtKuyUaOdyfyAanMQB2Kd5c/s640/IMG_5246+%2528750x750%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This look was very easy to achieve, I simply put some Nyx Jumbo Liner in Milk over my mobile lid and in my brows. I patted on some purple shadow from the BH Cosmetics Eye on the 60s palette over the lid and on the lower lash line, and also created some ombre brows with the same shade. I blended out the crease with a brown shade from the palette, applied some liner using the new Rimmel Scandaleyes Thick and Thin liner, and applied falsies from GlamEyes in the Selena style.<br />
<br />
I tried to use the same liner to draw the lines on my face, but it was dragging a bit on the glow-in-the-dark base I used, so I couldn't get the nice, crisp lines I wanted. Lips were done using Eye of Horus black smokey liner, and I used a brow brush dipped in black eyeshadow to create the 'stitches'.<br />
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That's it!<br />
<br />
Oh, and I was invited to a Halloween party for Nyx cosmetics a couple of weeks ago, so here's the quick look I recreated from a couple of years ago...I was a lot happier with this easy look and the photo was taken in natural light, so the quality was much better!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hyaEPX3LLpHdS6yC1FXrEf3h83kyvZjhJ5ApNBZYmgsKJIdLfvLS0FTHvjgYDWJ83GWwXGZ7FRnMerWl_s1mC0duGDSEB3oQzVN_iOW2VZhO-VXKpKYa11Pe8AphWwoV7WzpocNi8pwr/s1600/IMG_4723+%2528600x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hyaEPX3LLpHdS6yC1FXrEf3h83kyvZjhJ5ApNBZYmgsKJIdLfvLS0FTHvjgYDWJ83GWwXGZ7FRnMerWl_s1mC0duGDSEB3oQzVN_iOW2VZhO-VXKpKYa11Pe8AphWwoV7WzpocNi8pwr/s640/IMG_4723+%2528600x800%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Have an awesome Halloween, what's on the agenda for today? Don't forget to check out the other Halloween works I've created in past years <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/search/label/Halloween">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
xThe Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-68423833894823485372016-10-30T23:55:00.000+11:002016-10-30T23:55:46.065+11:00Lush Cosmetics Halloween 2016 Collection!Hi lovelies!<br />
<br />
Oh my, Halloween is almost here! It's one of my favourite times of year, though regretfully, I didn't have too much time to do much about it this year. I did still come up with something though, so check back tomorrow to see what I have up my sleeve!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I wanted to share a quick post on the adorable offerings from one of my favourite skincare shops, Lush Cosmetics! Now, they have a tonne of stuff in their Halloween collection, but I was kindly gifted with a few of the things pictured below.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRl0iMyToTwbgiNsRX45e4y7Oe4U0bU8LHxYocvxpM5nDRphbgxrfF3IA_im7rF3EzfTObjtjvlFtvx4EJ-5_50WXYz0DClB3SJxmhKm4at0WTViTt-kCz5OkWX-zkhx-IyOF3EBLfrCJP/s1600/IMG_5325+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRl0iMyToTwbgiNsRX45e4y7Oe4U0bU8LHxYocvxpM5nDRphbgxrfF3IA_im7rF3EzfTObjtjvlFtvx4EJ-5_50WXYz0DClB3SJxmhKm4at0WTViTt-kCz5OkWX-zkhx-IyOF3EBLfrCJP/s640/IMG_5325+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Cosmetics Halloween 2016 Collection </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Bath Bombs</b><br />
<br />
They have a total of five bath bombs in the Halloween collection, which include the three pictured below. <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/bath-bombs/monsters-ball">Monsters' Ball</a> ($8.95) is a mash up of lime and neroli oil and smells so refreshing,<a href="https://au.lush.com/products/christmas/lord-misrule"> Lord of Misrule</a> ($7.95) smells spicy with its blend of patchouli and black pepper oil, and <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/halloween/sparkly-pumpkin">Sparkly Pumpkin</a> ($8.95) is just a glittery gold treat.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<b></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-xtzYXzPV8aHnR4YG5fOYASM3hc5XqXmnkHJj8-460oXhm1X6ywpw4wzcFWZ97e3ita9wimBsObuHSwZaTUMJ7SxbrF5ji3wly_lysFid9nrL2Smn83hLGxNBkBrNl4rES0ZVSR4VoEe/s1600/IMG_5319+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-xtzYXzPV8aHnR4YG5fOYASM3hc5XqXmnkHJj8-460oXhm1X6ywpw4wzcFWZ97e3ita9wimBsObuHSwZaTUMJ7SxbrF5ji3wly_lysFid9nrL2Smn83hLGxNBkBrNl4rES0ZVSR4VoEe/s640/IMG_5319+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Bath Bomb in Lord of Misrule</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7KhREI25IpP_J1l74HYPzmw-YqropvkiEWvCECe_GZowXODoWRI8nkOpoeMuRfdoDOcEkGkUk3OadQ0Crd9wStsY39ZbmLfyR5cI3xLSqwBPsLOoC84sE-DsjYdWguh-oCqr59wpMXgA/s1600/IMG_5324+%2528800x597%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7KhREI25IpP_J1l74HYPzmw-YqropvkiEWvCECe_GZowXODoWRI8nkOpoeMuRfdoDOcEkGkUk3OadQ0Crd9wStsY39ZbmLfyR5cI3xLSqwBPsLOoC84sE-DsjYdWguh-oCqr59wpMXgA/s640/IMG_5324+%2528800x597%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Bath Bomb in Monsters' Ball</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgYJpZ4xFsBLr6la32GqEiqSdQ9mubXxnWi56F3YCBEQ6vFGFFLT15zjsG6jl4v5j9cVzI-7871AZlDkXyGwOOo8WPBs8JB69mbQK80SHq0Swcgps8rCzozprj6JO3vT9_oEhGCKvuOMJ/s1600/IMG_5321+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgYJpZ4xFsBLr6la32GqEiqSdQ9mubXxnWi56F3YCBEQ6vFGFFLT15zjsG6jl4v5j9cVzI-7871AZlDkXyGwOOo8WPBs8JB69mbQK80SHq0Swcgps8rCzozprj6JO3vT9_oEhGCKvuOMJ/s640/IMG_5321+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Bath Bomb in Sparkly Pumpkin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Shimmer Bar</b><br />
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The shimmer bar in <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/new-products/goth-fairy">Goth Fairy</a> ($9.95) has to be my favourite of the bunch, simply because of how cute it is! It's essentially a solid moisturiser which will leave a glittery trail over your skin, just the perfect treat for a night out on the town!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhUrdpaXb98GcWMJ6ikkIVKRRiVXmWfOnB2auc6T0P7eQ_zHvPgx0CNJvLa3N38ZY-6rcTkcaSEBrUJde2yRWKO3clP3EH9okdRfUxQpkg4c03JTcdwWZC9iqnDq-oUdxnxN8V2FWI1nO/s1600/IMG_5320+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhUrdpaXb98GcWMJ6ikkIVKRRiVXmWfOnB2auc6T0P7eQ_zHvPgx0CNJvLa3N38ZY-6rcTkcaSEBrUJde2yRWKO3clP3EH9okdRfUxQpkg4c03JTcdwWZC9iqnDq-oUdxnxN8V2FWI1nO/s640/IMG_5320+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Shimmer Bar in Goth Fairy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Soaps</b><br />
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The two soaps in the collection are called <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/soaps/fireside">Fireside</a> (<i>$7.50 per 100g</i>) (<i>on top, with the swirls to emulate dancing flames</i>) and <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/soaps/magic-wand-soap">Magic Wand</a> (<i>$6.95 per 100g</i>). Fireside smells smoky and deep, while Magic Wand is more fruity as it has a blend of citrus oils.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwdbv5QBDsvHyUkhyMjqANqIJTuB4xjQqP5zX9Ws6iEHOatN7yTg9cEOtWqTC9YKMN2l2TgSwjvO0qeLmrf9wPVCmwpgmeMX6dxMdAjOsQ-qopSgjV0BWbaGZaVi_SoW0KTMnnzom3hWtB/s1600/IMG_5322+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwdbv5QBDsvHyUkhyMjqANqIJTuB4xjQqP5zX9Ws6iEHOatN7yTg9cEOtWqTC9YKMN2l2TgSwjvO0qeLmrf9wPVCmwpgmeMX6dxMdAjOsQ-qopSgjV0BWbaGZaVi_SoW0KTMnnzom3hWtB/s640/IMG_5322+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush Soaps in Fireside (top) and Magic Wand (below)/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Shower Cream</b><br />
<br />
I was so happy to see a shower cream in the collection, as my apartment doesn't have a tub, and so I have to save my bath bombs for when I go away or back home to Malaysia. However, shower creams and shower gels are how I get my Lush fix, and the <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/halloween/lord-misrule">Lord of Misrule cream</a> smells just as gorgeous as the bath bomb! This retails for $10.50 per 100g, $19/95 per 200 g or $32.95 for 500g.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQf_9ZG8qrq_-A1rWu-ZGXan22hQaQB2igZSr5BAGCuSQdYts9dvOyyGanTNv-shFBhxTYiGuwHmalMY_DA-s9O1l0Ddy-ALJEyFXzvEErfe76bwaJoNRS2lOO8T7HiSRG7TPu5pPN2wd/s1600/IMG_5318+%2528800x645%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQf_9ZG8qrq_-A1rWu-ZGXan22hQaQB2igZSr5BAGCuSQdYts9dvOyyGanTNv-shFBhxTYiGuwHmalMY_DA-s9O1l0Ddy-ALJEyFXzvEErfe76bwaJoNRS2lOO8T7HiSRG7TPu5pPN2wd/s640/IMG_5318+%2528800x645%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord of Misrule Shower Cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There you have it, lovelies, which of these caught your fancy?<br />
<br />
If you are having trouble deciding, there are also two cute gift sets called the <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/gifts/pumpkin-gift">Pumpkin Gift</a> ($32.50) which has four of the bath bombs inside, or the <a href="https://au.lush.com/products/gifts/little-monster">Little Monster </a>($17.95) which has a Lord of Misrule bath bomb and mini shower cream!<br />
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I've included the links above, so you can shop online on the Lush website, or pop into a store. But be quick, as it's only on sale until the 31st of October, though you might luck out and still find it in some stores a while after Halloween.<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-75623619760589972892016-10-26T16:25:00.001+11:002016-10-26T16:27:12.097+11:00Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer Review (and Swatches)!Hi lovelies!<br />
<br />
I've got a short and sweet review post today on some pretty Clinique lippies to share! The Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer is one of the newer releases in the Pop lipstick line, and is Clinique's response to the latest matte liquid lipstick trend. Like the others in the Pop line, this is meant to have a built-in primer to keep your pout looking freshly applied. You can read my post on the original Lip Colour + Primer <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2016/01/clinique-pop-lip-colour-primer-party.html">here</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoSFNt5ayJEyeI9D2RXIup96xAGTDKs_ZjjF1qT4fyrj4GhKlgXzaPfqGfUrKBpA3s1zhg9NVmIqfYdTzp0K9RYLRqD_LFG6a4PaLaB5bG53sERZsFPR9Ohyphenhyphen-gNb5gdgrpHDbbJV5PvK9J/s1600/IMG_3497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoSFNt5ayJEyeI9D2RXIup96xAGTDKs_ZjjF1qT4fyrj4GhKlgXzaPfqGfUrKBpA3s1zhg9NVmIqfYdTzp0K9RYLRqD_LFG6a4PaLaB5bG53sERZsFPR9Ohyphenhyphen-gNb5gdgrpHDbbJV5PvK9J/s640/IMG_3497.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The spiel on the Clinique website states:<br />
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<i>"Lightweight liquid lipstick covers lips with lush pigment and a modern matte finish. Wears all day. Moisturizing formula with built-in primer provides a smooth, even glide so lips feel as fresh as they look."</i><br />
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First up, let's talk packaging.<br />
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The lipstick is packaged in a square tube with a frosted base that lets you easily identify which shade you're picking up. The lid is the classic silver lid that is true to most of the Pop line, and screws on tightly to prevent accidental leakage. The applicator, a teardrop-shaped sponge as seen in the photo below, is great for spreading colour over your lips, but a little unwieldy as compared to the precise application that a doe-foot applicator affords.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjFFArZn6lTOa-3KwGSjtwUM93eauF1uA_DObrhnoVCJf7_lZZcIyhoppDUwLNWZR6SRX3gHdRVE8sHjj3xr8zBHrZp2qnUnI3wl7frjXgtdOokKBsHLsVTq88uwEuh4_jAHEbGFkhnHc/s1600/IMG_3496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjFFArZn6lTOa-3KwGSjtwUM93eauF1uA_DObrhnoVCJf7_lZZcIyhoppDUwLNWZR6SRX3gHdRVE8sHjj3xr8zBHrZp2qnUnI3wl7frjXgtdOokKBsHLsVTq88uwEuh4_jAHEbGFkhnHc/s640/IMG_3496.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Does it deliver on the promise?<br />
<br />
Yes, and no.<br />
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The formula is lightweight and highly pigmented, however, it has more of a glossy finish instead of a matte one. The texture is also a little thicker than you'd get from a standard liquid lipstick, but settles down nicely after you press your lips together. The lippies are really comfortable to wear, but they do transfer so you'll definitely have to touch up after eating or drinking. The good news is they definitely don't dry out your lips, but the bad news is if you're specifically after a matte lip, these don't quite fit the bill.<br />
<br />
I was gifted with Black Licorice Pop (<i>a vampy, deep purple</i>) and Petal Pop (<i>a baby pink</i>), as shown below.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_SIrJNOnXyy3r2nhEm2b4H7Rj5qJ102cGS4hikkGlMiWHQjAb7L2OPlEOuyClcOBXL5GUpyGxzU7DKf25qv1uq1JDXMqvHAAfrVo6fnnWCuKguaeAs86TGNYhV-YlUOI7OTm3seCWakL/s1600/IMG_3588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_SIrJNOnXyy3r2nhEm2b4H7Rj5qJ102cGS4hikkGlMiWHQjAb7L2OPlEOuyClcOBXL5GUpyGxzU7DKf25qv1uq1JDXMqvHAAfrVo6fnnWCuKguaeAs86TGNYhV-YlUOI7OTm3seCWakL/s640/IMG_3588.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer in Petal Pop (L) and Black Licorice Pop (R).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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What's my take on them? I actually really like them. They aren't the first liquid lipstick to fail to deliver on a matte finish (<i>I'm looking at the Maybelline Vivid Mattes <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2016/07/maybelline-new-york-vivid-matte-liquid.html">here</a></i>) but that's something I can personally forgive as I like how pigmented and comfortable these are. I would definitely purchase these in different shades, or if they were available in a mini Christmas set.<br />
<br />
The Clinique Pop Liquid Matte Lip Colour + Primer is available in eight different shades, and retails at $40. You can purchase these directly from the Clinique <a href="https://www.clinique.com.au/product/1605/42886/makeup/lipsticks/clinique-pop-liquidtm-matte-lip-colour-primer">website</a>, or from standard stockists like Myer, David Jones, and selected pharmacies/online retailers. My advice would be to keep your eye out for a good Gift With Purchase (GWP) deal, as there have been a number of these of late! The GWP packs are adorable and allow you to try out a few more of their products.<br />
<br />
What do you think of these, lovelies? Are you a fan?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
PS- Linking up with Ingrid from Fabulous and Fun Life again, so be sure to check out the other posts <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2016/10/monday-makeup-madness-78-link-up.html?_sm_au_=iMVkST6DRD47kH7j">here</a>!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-48834329495860576442016-10-18T00:38:00.002+11:002016-10-18T00:45:37.535+11:00Huge October Haul featuring ColourPop, Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, Mecca and Sephora.Hi lovelies,<br />
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I hope you've all been faring well of late. I've been loving the bright sunshine and warmer weather that's upon us now that it's spring! It's also a lot easier on this blogger now that daylight savings has kicked in, because I have a lot more time to take photos instead of having to cram everything in on the weekend!<br />
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October has been a rather heavy haul month for me. It started off with one or two things and then just snowballed from there. To be honest though, most of what I bought was either something I had really wanted for ages (<i>I'm looking at you MAC and Charlotte Tilbury</i>) and the rest I chose to stock up on since the opportunity presented itself (<i>this is all you Sephora, ColourPop and Mecca</i>)! Either way, a part of me is feeling quite guilty (<i>I can't be the only one who feels guilt when I've 'treated myself' a bit too much, can I?</i>) while the rest of me is exulting in all my pretty new beauty goodies! Let's take a look, shall we? Word of warning, this is going to be quite a large post so do bear with me!<br />
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First up, we have a single lipstick from the MAC Selena limited edition (<i>two dangerous words if I ever heard them</i>) collection. I first heard about this collection months ago and I'd been hanging out for it ever since! Selena was one of my favourite singers, <i>'<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRU2qs82DAg">Dreaming of You'</a></i> was literally the first song I ever fell in love with and I also fell in love with J. Lo when I saw her play the part in the movie (<i>also titled Selena)</i>. For those of you who don't know her, Selena was a Latin American singer, songwriter, actress and fashion designer who was tragically shot dead by an ex-employee at the age of 24. While 'Dreaming of You' was my favourite song, I picked up 'Como La Flor' instead, as I preferred the Amplified formula and the shade. This collection sold out within minutes of its release in the US, but strangely, is still very much available on the MAC Australia <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com.au/collections-mac-selena">website</a>, so it's not too late to grab something if you're keen. I also got a free sample of strobe cream which is always nice.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fZv072iYpWx1B3XizyTcIV8eueB5Y0XUlLaCXDzYPfifpK0fSjGDtyJzJ_NdBQ7R4EmuO3YpGEELhiYv9ycena-Wq_PZSk6cZS_kXHU5Nb28hFcm2zmXLDr4vX_N2adH_jUY68xZKiAM/s1600/IMG_4789+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fZv072iYpWx1B3XizyTcIV8eueB5Y0XUlLaCXDzYPfifpK0fSjGDtyJzJ_NdBQ7R4EmuO3YpGEELhiYv9ycena-Wq_PZSk6cZS_kXHU5Nb28hFcm2zmXLDr4vX_N2adH_jUY68xZKiAM/s640/IMG_4789+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MAC Selena Como La Flor</td></tr>
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Next, ColourPop, a brand you all know that I absolutely love...had a free shipping deal. Now, all their products are extremely affordable but international shipping is always a killer, so I couldn't not stock up! I bought two more highlighters, 7 shadows (<i>including a collaboration quad</i>) and five lip products (<i>an Ultra Matte, two more Ultra Satins and two Metallics</i>). Most were from the new Fall Collection. I'll review them in a separate post but here are photos of everything I picked up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NgJgqzcsWL65R16qRFYtrr9-_anDUJZpCQ7ApmZmG2DRsKvdDQYXmmLg6PHYz7qbr2XaKaGxgq9MfZLbA2mfjZu3D7_hfpuaEqwOZlCVfRTcGp8eZgCrkGTYq6yZemovLfDdMXTBGgvu/s1600/IMG_4545+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NgJgqzcsWL65R16qRFYtrr9-_anDUJZpCQ7ApmZmG2DRsKvdDQYXmmLg6PHYz7qbr2XaKaGxgq9MfZLbA2mfjZu3D7_hfpuaEqwOZlCVfRTcGp8eZgCrkGTYq6yZemovLfDdMXTBGgvu/s640/IMG_4545+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ColourPop Haul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The two highlighters are Might Be and Wisp, and I honestly love them both.<br />
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0i3x18xVSGyavhd5sSX0qJ9OR-OdRp3BFZoZt0XoHXNW1JKcWUkHBJUj-UC9lJfEr22UsC-ZqJoZMgXUWFYv_jK-pwoDQtzmb7N8UFFaAW6kJSfIKW9NKG1Uv5vF1gHVusajlal_v8nJ/s1600/IMG_4556+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0i3x18xVSGyavhd5sSX0qJ9OR-OdRp3BFZoZt0XoHXNW1JKcWUkHBJUj-UC9lJfEr22UsC-ZqJoZMgXUWFYv_jK-pwoDQtzmb7N8UFFaAW6kJSfIKW9NKG1Uv5vF1gHVusajlal_v8nJ/s640/IMG_4556+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ColourPop Highlighters in Might Be and Wisp</td></tr>
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Here are the names of the seven shadow shades I picked up, and On The Rocks and Get Lucky were repurchases because I love them so much.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSo6974dhSfWnmoJx-xj4i1cmu6cqkxYh0rGa_A-3yZbTNTxkZK_hbiuzJBSC3RthwAPwPx3Av4JmS3wUfasuBzjN57_AHzH_z-FpmtG9SwERMBecKVerK_I9M-Ye6IJKdnX0Bh71OsvF/s1600/IMG_4613+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSo6974dhSfWnmoJx-xj4i1cmu6cqkxYh0rGa_A-3yZbTNTxkZK_hbiuzJBSC3RthwAPwPx3Av4JmS3wUfasuBzjN57_AHzH_z-FpmtG9SwERMBecKVerK_I9M-Ye6IJKdnX0Bh71OsvF/s640/IMG_4613+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ColourPop Eyeshadows.</td></tr>
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I also picked up Calypso, Viper, Stain, Mugshot and PYT (listed top to bottom in the photo below). I'm not usually a fan of metallics with my skintone but that's the beauty of ColourPop, the products are so affordable that you can afford to step outside your comfort zone and experiment a little. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VNk-x4hCuDPdsGFzklY0PF_fdW3hbkseRU5vjl7azp5OD5YMwt9lQ5JWQ-wMSZE1GnzC9_QoDRsSsMFaSfWtGONrtedkrIbp-htdkIj3vYixPQeDcqt7qLaZH8jraLNe9WoL-6Dnai2P/s1600/IMG_4857+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VNk-x4hCuDPdsGFzklY0PF_fdW3hbkseRU5vjl7azp5OD5YMwt9lQ5JWQ-wMSZE1GnzC9_QoDRsSsMFaSfWtGONrtedkrIbp-htdkIj3vYixPQeDcqt7qLaZH8jraLNe9WoL-6Dnai2P/s640/IMG_4857+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ColourPop liquid lipsticks (L-R): PYT, Mugshot, Stain, Viper and Calypso.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Charlotte Tilbury was a brand I've been dying to try for a bit, and when the exclusive shade The Queen was released, I knew I had to buy it. It was a bit more expensive buying directly from the <a href="http://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/matte-revolution-lipstick-the-queen.html">website</a>, but totally worth it as it arrived beautifully packaged and within three days of shipping, not a bad effort seeing as it came all the way from the UK!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGV6Vi4b-vmCv4yToXZfJj6VRfqfSXr5gNXLnU7KBm9CspzIk0ncPwGABPry4Hra-_-4ltdIgnjbjCSsTaZFpo7anCI9aaNt1B5-eJvLLmxN8LlZLUajEPe-Un6BPx-DDjM9EgV_VGsbSE/s1600/IMG_4776+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGV6Vi4b-vmCv4yToXZfJj6VRfqfSXr5gNXLnU7KBm9CspzIk0ncPwGABPry4Hra-_-4ltdIgnjbjCSsTaZFpo7anCI9aaNt1B5-eJvLLmxN8LlZLUajEPe-Un6BPx-DDjM9EgV_VGsbSE/s640/IMG_4776+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This crimson shade was named after the Queen, and I feel like one just looking at it!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWRLztd1kV4_-6LBUQLjo90baz5__wwbXoSwjgi4oqTZOM4ePtYOCRtnezpWxnLJMx3HsSq2q3ViQp8_T1J7D1KSUNFNUdwWevOrWPBsFBEk6DUgLbBg0iNKoyQaGzBwXCsm6b_whMLqh/s1600/IMG_4839+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWRLztd1kV4_-6LBUQLjo90baz5__wwbXoSwjgi4oqTZOM4ePtYOCRtnezpWxnLJMx3HsSq2q3ViQp8_T1J7D1KSUNFNUdwWevOrWPBsFBEk6DUgLbBg0iNKoyQaGzBwXCsm6b_whMLqh/s640/IMG_4839+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlotte Tilbury The Queen Matte Revolution Lipstick.</td></tr>
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Now, my nearest mall, Chadstone, has been undergoing renovations for most of the past two years, and it finally launched last Thursday, with flagship stores opening for my favourite makeup stores like Mecca Maxima and Sephora. If you are based in Melbourne and haven't been to the refurbished Chadstone yet, I highly recommend you do. The new Mecca store is gorgeous, and there's even a 'selfie' booth where you can take photos and mail it to yourself to share on social media.<br />
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To celebrate, Mecca held a wishing tree where you could select an envelope containing a mystery prize for any purchases made above $65. Naturally, I couldn't resist as there were some beautiful gifts, so I decided it was a fantastic time to stock up on things I had been waiting on to purchase (<i>or repurchase, in some instances</i>). I didn't manage to get any of the items I'd been eyeing off the tree, sadly, but I did score the Bumble and Bumble styling lotion, a Smashbox makeup bag, a Korres brightening cream and a Ciate liquid liner.<br />
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I also bought the Frank body scrub, Glamglow Powermud dual cleanser mini, the new Glamglow Plumprageous matte lip treatment and the Hourglass Veil Primer mini, all of which I've been dying to try. I also stocked up on my Hourglass Ambient Powder in Dim Light, Hourglass Vanish Foundation and my HG NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Biscuit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShH81prRNLhzYELczQ1aicYH3RX7VEtVrtlSyMxUQxeRYAVwrh0FuJgMhIgGzrZk8FjqO6kzDCa0osv3ar2kLd1GLJmn6t2AAvXSfZQzCfxnlYtSmQBsty6LxJr062XGPJbGpF5mgoxQc/s1600/IMG_4798+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShH81prRNLhzYELczQ1aicYH3RX7VEtVrtlSyMxUQxeRYAVwrh0FuJgMhIgGzrZk8FjqO6kzDCa0osv3ar2kLd1GLJmn6t2AAvXSfZQzCfxnlYtSmQBsty6LxJr062XGPJbGpF5mgoxQc/s640/IMG_4798+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mecca Maxima haul.</td></tr>
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Here's a glimpse of the Mecca gifts from the wishing tree.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQPdPTsNebv0xXzDH5-4I7fH1eYZI4h2xdDRGaBFDsq24QzZ5OdWiQzGP0pQRSH4jLnOFIyD7YbfSNtpUNwfMe_aUDJtddTmXX7lCC1FsCKwvMp_FVN_IQa7GSuZn139HkUBrSr1zTO5Ma/s1600/IMG_4800+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQPdPTsNebv0xXzDH5-4I7fH1eYZI4h2xdDRGaBFDsq24QzZ5OdWiQzGP0pQRSH4jLnOFIyD7YbfSNtpUNwfMe_aUDJtddTmXX7lCC1FsCKwvMp_FVN_IQa7GSuZn139HkUBrSr1zTO5Ma/s640/IMG_4800+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mecca Wishing Tree gifts.</td></tr>
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And here are the skincare goodies I picked up. That Frank scrub smells amazing!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtOsnfZuKimw8ggSbi6aTH7Otl1LMhuyx50ZAMm3toiojd0yXXlNS3xetTOHcqtT_nSdwB-FXl-C2GBwxa7uDXg8tmPqQglO0d2QNJSbN06awrx10bxw-puBSuwgbFPsToafZzbWZHofn/s1600/IMG_4801+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtOsnfZuKimw8ggSbi6aTH7Otl1LMhuyx50ZAMm3toiojd0yXXlNS3xetTOHcqtT_nSdwB-FXl-C2GBwxa7uDXg8tmPqQglO0d2QNJSbN06awrx10bxw-puBSuwgbFPsToafZzbWZHofn/s640/IMG_4801+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frank Body and GlamGlow products.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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And here are the Hourglass and NARS items!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnZY4_vaYv0DHLiVaHEfbAu7CjHIkWNGGKa6SreffAH5XvYL6quPtMx9_pZ_DPdeVBP3G8OH4rmM4tcfC0yOoLZsuzIduwPJOjQyyaDKEnLcXNXOXS6G4I4w9KM3VomvHyflzZs_dCK_n/s1600/IMG_4806+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnZY4_vaYv0DHLiVaHEfbAu7CjHIkWNGGKa6SreffAH5XvYL6quPtMx9_pZ_DPdeVBP3G8OH4rmM4tcfC0yOoLZsuzIduwPJOjQyyaDKEnLcXNXOXS6G4I4w9KM3VomvHyflzZs_dCK_n/s640/IMG_4806+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hourglass and NARS products.</td></tr>
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Last but not least, I was lucky enough to be invited as a VIP to preview the brand, spanking new Sephora store, and I was so grateful to be able to preview the store before the rest of the public! The queues were immense, as the first 1000 were given a free goodie bag. All VIPs were gifted with 20% off. There were plenty of new releases that weren't even on the online store as yet, and all the testers were brand new, so I couldn't resist picking up a few goodies.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERfw5Zn_mdpJWZ92dsAC7obxESrMOvYa3xi4DTNsPwTtYNyZx0lU-bs9bdk1ml6edd3LCVOY4WKZhIGcp_vZ7GH2wArGKLbowl97PkjJJVlhcYGc7vRzYDACGq9QD8n1j3aJ72CGhmwyv/s1600/IMG_4834+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERfw5Zn_mdpJWZ92dsAC7obxESrMOvYa3xi4DTNsPwTtYNyZx0lU-bs9bdk1ml6edd3LCVOY4WKZhIGcp_vZ7GH2wArGKLbowl97PkjJJVlhcYGc7vRzYDACGq9QD8n1j3aJ72CGhmwyv/s640/IMG_4834+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sephora Haul.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I picked up this adorable Works of Tarte set from the Holiday Collection containing 5 mini liners and 5 mini lip paints.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQj4icnOc_JJPu-wHSNOqahMxazf_V7AL4T5oNlXfBqKkZ9hfbzqwC9IQMAb4gKIk0DgE7UrQLKr_D70S02HdUnVstq1_1iQM7WOwKxMbbcYRbdmi-KsZh4GL75ALL1mkhxWFM6Fu240ud/s1600/IMG_4811+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQj4icnOc_JJPu-wHSNOqahMxazf_V7AL4T5oNlXfBqKkZ9hfbzqwC9IQMAb4gKIk0DgE7UrQLKr_D70S02HdUnVstq1_1iQM7WOwKxMbbcYRbdmi-KsZh4GL75ALL1mkhxWFM6Fu240ud/s640/IMG_4811+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Works of Tarte set from the Holiday 2016 Collection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Not that I needed a new eyeshadow palette, but I couldn't resist the colours in the new Kat Von D Serpentina palette. That eye dust (<i>on the right</i>) is to die for, the pigmentation is fantastic!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilm64lVCwGvMYqgbi4px_nbqa9uVYIqzULuJf8xkkvKyJuBLlC30ghIuNOh44HkOgClLRg7Q71GrO2eJA4RPPw5xBKMqaIpiJuGfMXazRln_ujDlbTfn0VYjaXsuTSZG5ed1EFYoHtqfzP/s1600/IMG_4812+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilm64lVCwGvMYqgbi4px_nbqa9uVYIqzULuJf8xkkvKyJuBLlC30ghIuNOh44HkOgClLRg7Q71GrO2eJA4RPPw5xBKMqaIpiJuGfMXazRln_ujDlbTfn0VYjaXsuTSZG5ed1EFYoHtqfzP/s640/IMG_4812+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kat Von D Serpentina Palette.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I also picked up a Kat Von D Studded Kiss lipstick in Lolita. I already have Lolita I and II in the liquid version, but I love the formula of the Studded Kiss lipsticks and how comfortable they are. The mini lipstick in Underage Red was a freebie gift with purchase, as was the Sephora makeup remover pictured in the first photo.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FHDQMjut6td8ol3LCMYYdZkxM3A3ca-HwuuNF4kEn3JNoHsvAkR-XWoZ3AyCf5j4t8Ire3o873xKXTcACJTtj1TLi_eYS94riKqONNyrBIIQu-XhVLwJgN6iVXs5fIHaHRxvcVMSTbEb/s1600/IMG_4813+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FHDQMjut6td8ol3LCMYYdZkxM3A3ca-HwuuNF4kEn3JNoHsvAkR-XWoZ3AyCf5j4t8Ire3o873xKXTcACJTtj1TLi_eYS94riKqONNyrBIIQu-XhVLwJgN6iVXs5fIHaHRxvcVMSTbEb/s640/IMG_4813+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kat Von D studded lipstick in Lolita and Underage Red (mini).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Isn't the embossing on the Kat Von D lipsticks stunning?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmCI7bwyC7L3seZO3JznQufOs1mmOXZSBFeY1-vKsAtNASrnOFIBYDq2h3i7dpjmz8xEywAADYCPCOL7nNvWQCKUvFWhejFH2ksjlXei40wo1oWoP4sSbN0L3qwEC_TbwFOrCwmR-25_q/s1600/IMG_4815+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmCI7bwyC7L3seZO3JznQufOs1mmOXZSBFeY1-vKsAtNASrnOFIBYDq2h3i7dpjmz8xEywAADYCPCOL7nNvWQCKUvFWhejFH2ksjlXei40wo1oWoP4sSbN0L3qwEC_TbwFOrCwmR-25_q/s640/IMG_4815+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kat Von D Lolita.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And there you have it, lovelies! All my beautiful goodies from my October hauling! What did you think of my haul?<br />
<br />
Let me know if there is anything in particular you want reviewed, and I'll bump it to the front of the queue! Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to ignore my bank balance...<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">PS- Linking up with the lovely Ingrid from Fabulous and Fun Life again this week, so pop on over and check out all the other exciting posts from this week, and submit your own if you have one!</span></i>The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-37088719624500470162016-10-07T07:00:00.000+11:002016-10-07T07:00:21.896+11:00NOTD: The dry brush manicure (with feature accent nail).Hi lovelies!<br />
<br />
Happy Friyay!<br />
<br />
I wanted to share some quick and simple nail art I did recently using the dry brush technique. In case you're wondering what the dry brush technique is, you simply scrape off almost all the polish off your brush until it's almost dry, then stroke it across the nail! It actually feels quite therapeutic, and you can get different patterns by alternating brush stroke directions and also changing colours.<br />
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Before I get any further, I do apologise for the smudge of red polish on my ring finger cuticle bed...I was rushing to take photos and didn't notice it at the time!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCZcj6yOVrO23Fku7Df6_uRndMwTj9eDwW0PH3KARksMUJZ5tIdbkTZYS0oWxlGJur6jo4jZDzZVG9ouL-k5tmluiq-34AuyUmX4AAH-z3-pWGJ8bZt7EVRKEunFwOK-woHPs8CDVs4pHw/s1600/image2+%25282%2529+%2528800x765%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCZcj6yOVrO23Fku7Df6_uRndMwTj9eDwW0PH3KARksMUJZ5tIdbkTZYS0oWxlGJur6jo4jZDzZVG9ouL-k5tmluiq-34AuyUmX4AAH-z3-pWGJ8bZt7EVRKEunFwOK-woHPs8CDVs4pHw/s640/image2+%25282%2529+%2528800x765%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dry brush manicure.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I used three Sally Hansen Miracle Gel polishes in Dig Fig, Birthday Suit and Game of Chromes. I used Birthday Suit as my base polish on all my nails except my ring finger, where I used Dig Fig instead. I then simply used the dry brush technique to use the remaining two shades on each nail, alternating directions with each stroke. I wasn't overly impressed with the design when I first did it, but it was quite late so I left it to the next day, and by then, it had grown on me so I decided to keep it!<br />
<br />
Keep reading after the jump!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5yFlNUl8wOM7sTAo3u-LfyioczeyWvV9ZkI4lSBaIzEP04cJSaoKDg8HbG2EKiOalXDhdDv3LVwSTPvj0fFODyItvbSelXIc9yDaa_AtGCObRWD3oYbKmZxseMLFqaBDzGQCH9exQyrn/s1600/image1+%25282%2529+%2528800x786%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5yFlNUl8wOM7sTAo3u-LfyioczeyWvV9ZkI4lSBaIzEP04cJSaoKDg8HbG2EKiOalXDhdDv3LVwSTPvj0fFODyItvbSelXIc9yDaa_AtGCObRWD3oYbKmZxseMLFqaBDzGQCH9exQyrn/s640/image1+%25282%2529+%2528800x786%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The dry brush manicure.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_tEl-LPE_aCUYEfJaXXEuVRRljkuLyWARCyvQPiji8Xn4yeGIr7lD1JmtUQbbAZ-pLIm-hymZM29g8xmNFp9rj_VlVvNd70IE_tjl4MNFUIpYYR2lJr3mDzWC1H_uz32-TwAhJhXlFx3/s1600/image3+%25282%2529+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="617" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_tEl-LPE_aCUYEfJaXXEuVRRljkuLyWARCyvQPiji8Xn4yeGIr7lD1JmtUQbbAZ-pLIm-hymZM29g8xmNFp9rj_VlVvNd70IE_tjl4MNFUIpYYR2lJr3mDzWC1H_uz32-TwAhJhXlFx3/s640/image3+%25282%2529+%2528800x778%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The dry brush manicure.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkBz7gGDVxsVklaMUqvT60HsCAwxWYqUlRE5V31cknoAwDtu-3S77_LCnp3FlCmym7RYWdi70HLn_5GrmUbmEyT48NNjfrJ5tM2bAfIwm8I55NLSiYtulU8m43GI7OB3UIPBBrgmtrgtI/s1600/image5+%25281%2529+%2528788x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCkBz7gGDVxsVklaMUqvT60HsCAwxWYqUlRE5V31cknoAwDtu-3S77_LCnp3FlCmym7RYWdi70HLn_5GrmUbmEyT48NNjfrJ5tM2bAfIwm8I55NLSiYtulU8m43GI7OB3UIPBBrgmtrgtI/s640/image5+%25281%2529+%2528788x800%2529.jpg" width="628" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The dry brush manicure.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ajhYYgH7LJQDAKDHFOiF-d1rHI8NYM28VGzncDy50houeKcCCEjDMmeQIAYJVV91MhC9mxpm2n_O_8TgK3FvL1LdARdvvTjaMZe_mBFSxGaNooaAV45SSafXXNnFeJq7E5YHigVULWQZ/s1600/image4+%25282%2529+%2528800x739%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ajhYYgH7LJQDAKDHFOiF-d1rHI8NYM28VGzncDy50houeKcCCEjDMmeQIAYJVV91MhC9mxpm2n_O_8TgK3FvL1LdARdvvTjaMZe_mBFSxGaNooaAV45SSafXXNnFeJq7E5YHigVULWQZ/s640/image4+%25282%2529+%2528800x739%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The dry brush manicure.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There you have it, lovelies, a quick and simple look that's so easy to achieve, all you need are a couple of contrasting polishes!<br />
<br />
What did you think of the dry brush manicure?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-60595415299895646322016-09-26T21:37:00.005+10:002016-09-26T21:42:46.591+10:00ColourPop Ultra Satin Lips Review + Swatches! Hi lovelies!<br />
<br />
If you follow me on Instagram or if you know me in person, you'll know that I'm a huge fan of ColourPop cosmetics, and usually have one (<i>if not more</i>) of their products in my handbag at any given time. They have some of the most gorgeous products, at the best prices, with the cutest names. Based in the US, the products retail between $5-8 USD each...yes, they're THAT affordable! Sometimes low prices translate to low quality, but that's certainly not the case with ColourPop as all their products are totally bangin'! Wallet and fur-baby friendly (<i>they don't test on animals</i>), it's no wonder I'm totally addicted to them...which is why it's surprising that they haven't appeared on the blog before. Time to remedy that, I say, so let's start with one of my favourites, <i>the Ultra Satin Lips</i>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3-iTuIZSNO6fPdCOfiJT8T8By3zF_QrrrHj7SScZaNpYqqK7cYbqPdaIAe3GeP6s1he4u3CCvNVHDFa_IaiyAvq-I22SOv0tBh7fRYN1WfMBvI1EhIMr23GYqS1U5YACi9m_1c_bHgqQ/s1600/IMG_4163+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3-iTuIZSNO6fPdCOfiJT8T8By3zF_QrrrHj7SScZaNpYqqK7cYbqPdaIAe3GeP6s1he4u3CCvNVHDFa_IaiyAvq-I22SOv0tBh7fRYN1WfMBvI1EhIMr23GYqS1U5YACi9m_1c_bHgqQ/s640/IMG_4163+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">ColourPop Ultra Satin Lips</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The <i>Ultra Satin Lips</i> are a liquid lipstick that's relatively new to the ColourPop range, having only been released a few months ago. They are packaged in a slimline clear tube with a metallic cap and have the brand name and type (<i>ColourPop Ultra Satin Lips</i>) printed holographically on the tube. The tubes contain a doe-foot applicator which makes it really easy to get precise, clean application (<i>because let's face it, no one's got the time to constantly have to apply concealer to clean up edges all the time</i>).<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
<a name='more'></a><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c1-mJ3TDbw8wPtsVslbDgY4qCxc1UfMM2czvK5Vr8CF1IFgEC5MoWFnkhdAI7jmZzsaqJRKttiKusGdSzmzKPbxrXDA0fzG-oCmmT4-UNyQImbiNbnM9Z1bRqIrMjE4yX5ZhgXtaGxOF/s1600/IMG_4161+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c1-mJ3TDbw8wPtsVslbDgY4qCxc1UfMM2czvK5Vr8CF1IFgEC5MoWFnkhdAI7jmZzsaqJRKttiKusGdSzmzKPbxrXDA0fzG-oCmmT4-UNyQImbiNbnM9Z1bRqIrMjE4yX5ZhgXtaGxOF/s640/IMG_4161+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">ColourPop Ultra Satin Lips</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
The texture is slightly mousse-y, it's not liquid and runny like some liquid lipsticks are, but it's really creamy and glides beautifully over the lips. It doesn't take long to 'dry down', and leaves lips feeling really comfortable, with a finish that is velvety, as opposed to that dried out feeling you get with some liquid lipsticks. You know how some matte liquid lipsticks really accentuate every dry patch and make your lips feel like they're shriveling up? You won't have that with the <i>Ultra Satin Lips</i>, as it somehow fills the lines in your lips and makes them look soft. plump and pillowy. They aren't completely budge-proof and do transfer ever so slightly, but more along the lines of a slight smudge on a glass as opposed to a smeary mess. Touching up with these is really easy as you never get that crumbly feeling some liquid lipsticks offer.<br />
<br />
My obsession began when I tried Spritz, which if I'm honest, is a tad too pale for me. I make it work by using a darker liner underneath, but loved the texture so much that I picked up four others. They are constantly expanding the range, and at present, have 27 shades available. The colours I own are:<br />
<br />
Spritz -<i> pale cool-toned pink (sadly, no longer available)</i><br />
Dopey - <i>dusty mauve</i><br />
Molly - <i>lilac plum </i><br />
Frick'N'Frack - <i>rosy brick/terracotta</i><br />
Panda - <i>deep violet</i><br />
<br />
(though I also have a few more shades currently making their way to me, but more on that later).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gOEHJb9Ksiw-DlII0q73-0kOcoqILy44GeJWRwqu1J3Xhs8KWKg2NYh_ohj13b3r7wc1_vRhIy2lZsAHPKVneMc-63a-J5KNG-CVKYjNNeOqxX7RmUGk1QUFZX5M7sOsC3fe77kz98Uw/s1600/IMG_4157+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gOEHJb9Ksiw-DlII0q73-0kOcoqILy44GeJWRwqu1J3Xhs8KWKg2NYh_ohj13b3r7wc1_vRhIy2lZsAHPKVneMc-63a-J5KNG-CVKYjNNeOqxX7RmUGk1QUFZX5M7sOsC3fe77kz98Uw/s640/IMG_4157+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ColourPop Ultra Satin Lips Swatches (top - bottom): Panda, Frick'N'Frack, Molly, Dopey and Spritz.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I can't tell you enough how much I love these lipsticks! I've summarised the pros and cons of the <i>Ultra Satin Lips</i> below:<br />
<br />
<b>Advantages: </b><br />
Affordable (<i>incredibly so!</i>)<br />
Incredible pigmentation<br />
Beautiful, varied shades (<i>the array of colours goes from nudes to every shade of the rainbow</i>)<br />
No discernible taste or scent<br />
Well-stocked on the ColourPop website <i>(no 'out of stock' dramas here)</i><br />
Smooth, velvety texture that's very comfortable<br />
DID I MENTION AFFORDABLE?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Disadvantages:</b><br />
Sold exclusively through the ColourPop website<br />
International shipping is <i>really</i> expensive<br />
The holographic print does wear away with time (<i>as you can see on the first photo</i>)<br />
<br />
But guess what, lovelies?! ColourPop are currently offering a promotion at the moment, where international shipping is a mere $4.99 for orders under $50, and FREE for orders above $50 (<i>all prices quoted in USD</i>)! This deal is available until 10am PST on Monday 26 September (<i>which translates to 3am AEST Tuesday 27 September for us</i>), so I would hop to it quick! It's a fantastic way to try out a few of the products because the international shipping rates are usually the worst part about a ColourPop order! I don't get anything out of this, lovelies, simply the satisfaction of recommending a product I love to you while it's on promotion. Oh, and if you sign up to their newsletter, you also get a promo code for $5 off your first order!<br />
<br />
In case you're after other product suggestions, I also highly recommend their <i>Super Shock Shadows (best applied with fingertips)</i>, highlighters and their <i>Lippie Stix</i> lipsticks! Or if you need more recommendations, hit me up on my social media platforms (<i>links to the right -></i>). I placed my order two days ago and I'm currently contemplating a second. ;)<br />
<br />
What do you think, lovelies, do these sound like they take your fancy?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />
PS- Linking up with the lovely Ingrid from <a href="http://fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/">Fabulous and Fun Life</a> as always, so head on over to check out the other amazing posts from this week!<br />
<div>
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The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-56158389026923357342016-09-19T23:18:00.000+10:002016-09-19T23:45:46.367+10:00Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Luxe Lip Color Review and Swatches!Hi lovelies,<br />
<br />
Oh my, it's been a month since I last blogged! I do apologise, I caught a dreadful cold which took ages to recuperate from, and time simply got away from me!<br />
<br />
Since I'm feeling better now, I wanted to share a post today on some beautiful, luxe lipsticks which landed on my desk a couple of weeks ago. The Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors certainly live up to the name, as they definitely have a luxurious look about them, don't you think?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOfYZxdS097wEvgaitZyUiCBuM8YSVEadftIVpJ89oAHME_puEMfG7qb7o6E58M5BWlS5bhz3AHULu9oVpeKc5Vz1BPhZ4llskGRcdFVRJ_ETHDgEaitog5zvKNYT0vx8Iao5N08403d9/s1600/IMG_3710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOfYZxdS097wEvgaitZyUiCBuM8YSVEadftIVpJ89oAHME_puEMfG7qb7o6E58M5BWlS5bhz3AHULu9oVpeKc5Vz1BPhZ4llskGRcdFVRJ_ETHDgEaitog5zvKNYT0vx8Iao5N08403d9/s640/IMG_3710.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Packaged in a sleek, metallic gold tube, you do get quite a little thrill every time you use this to paint your pout. I certainly do, anyway!<br />
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Here's what the brand has to say about the Luxe Lip Colors..<br />
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<i>"Our boldest, most vibrant colour ever. This sumptuous formula dramatically boosts moisture levels while intensely rejuvenating lips, keeping them comfortable and conditioned—even after it’s removed. Now in 30 shades, with a sleek gold tube. It's luxury, redefined."</i><br />
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Keep reading after the jump!<br />
<a name='more'></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTPJDfKaGz2KYeJ9tnRBRvTm643qTInY2kiiltv67zvmspVAzPeNs1ZbM89qcO6bN-jim047Ixsut6Wn2l0TLdelgMGB5ejBNWkN2VD8TKH4Zn9zasdLRh7eNuRe7qTv92HOu7-XgfInu/s1600/IMG_3736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTPJDfKaGz2KYeJ9tnRBRvTm643qTInY2kiiltv67zvmspVAzPeNs1ZbM89qcO6bN-jim047Ixsut6Wn2l0TLdelgMGB5ejBNWkN2VD8TKH4Zn9zasdLRh7eNuRe7qTv92HOu7-XgfInu/s640/IMG_3736.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors</td></tr>
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Now, if you've been following my blog for a while, you'd know that I'm a huge fan of Bobbi Brown cosmetics. As a whole, the brand has a variety of shades to cater to all skintypes in the spectrum. I've got quite a few of their lipsticks and I have to agree with the statement above, these Luxe Lip Colors certainly deliver a bold statement in terms of pigmentation, more so than any of the other lipsticks in their collection, with the possible exception of the Creamy Matte Lip Colors.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSpR-Q5YxDOsadasKQjwM5pEFDNehWTES4q2E8SqyqYzWEU2ehYFNfpGVnOctZRvWoNz0XGRP8iJlqN7nQhavYWVSjS0NXjquZ1zXeVgnWKSw705gYQHiZ_qh_C-HmLC0RZ7nKH-fNswh/s1600/IMG_3730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSpR-Q5YxDOsadasKQjwM5pEFDNehWTES4q2E8SqyqYzWEU2ehYFNfpGVnOctZRvWoNz0XGRP8iJlqN7nQhavYWVSjS0NXjquZ1zXeVgnWKSw705gYQHiZ_qh_C-HmLC0RZ7nKH-fNswh/s640/IMG_3730.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors</td></tr>
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These lipsticks apply almost like a balm, gliding smoothly over the lips. They have a moisturising, emollient feel, but the colour payoff is beyond description. One smooth swipe is literally all you need for a perfect application, without any bleeding. Like most creamy lipsticks, I find that these do transfer if you eat/drink, but they don't become a smeary mess like some creamy lipsticks do. I wore one of the shades to work and attended a blog function all on the same day, and I only had to reapply once despite eating/drinking numerous times through the day.<br />
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While the Luxe Lip Colors do have a creamy feel and are very comfortable to wear, it can get a little drying towards the end of the day once the top layers have worn away, but it's easy enough to reapply a thin layer to add moisture or just add a layer of lip balm/gloss. I do have quite dry lips naturally so that could also be a contributing factor. The colors are so bold that they can really accentuate dry patches, so I would advise prepping lips well with lip balm before application.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJ7gSdbMS3Z8AiD313ImrckvOPs1_jmnGzseeIenAR919KjQkz5b2XznWo1QMjga75fxlWM-kmYiPTf9FzAuYsgnUY2PX1ldgYXd0UYZ3RPIz2V1TO4FK_jcorojIBoXES_-MX043x1jl/s1600/IMG_3732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJ7gSdbMS3Z8AiD313ImrckvOPs1_jmnGzseeIenAR919KjQkz5b2XznWo1QMjga75fxlWM-kmYiPTf9FzAuYsgnUY2PX1ldgYXd0UYZ3RPIz2V1TO4FK_jcorojIBoXES_-MX043x1jl/s640/IMG_3732.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors </td></tr>
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The shades I was generously gifted with are from the current limited edition range (<i>marked LE</i>), so I would definitely suggest hopping to a store ASAP to swatch them before they sell out if you like the look of any of these! The one in the middle (<i>in the photo below</i>) is one I previously had from the permanent range, so I've also included it in the review.<br />
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The colours as ordered in the photo below are:<br />
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Bahama Brown (LE) - a mauve brown nude<br />
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Uber Rose (LE) - a rose brown nude<br />
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Hot Rose (permanent) - a bright fuchsia pink<br />
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Flame (LE) - a bright red coral<br />
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Imperial Red (LE) - a deep true red<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm2W9QEIuBaAI_RpBc9PK6OkdHsUg-hIXJVM9NPQLuRFWore-_7kP9ckesfcm04ZxV-urffsnIzJsE0Ii5whHhM9_3faZw7RZhDEqQJS1iP9g43ZxvV15zEnJY2e0SEcyaqo8aS304-NS/s1600/IMG_3757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm2W9QEIuBaAI_RpBc9PK6OkdHsUg-hIXJVM9NPQLuRFWore-_7kP9ckesfcm04ZxV-urffsnIzJsE0Ii5whHhM9_3faZw7RZhDEqQJS1iP9g43ZxvV15zEnJY2e0SEcyaqo8aS304-NS/s640/IMG_3757.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors in Bahama Brown, Uber Rose, Hot Rose, Flame and Imperial Red.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0bRB04sAoaIfmXgJe6XM-D4nkINEtpx4hPpoPl0mwznP7l_J8ZneQdVxaSiKpolzjwkhFFBI80TdTpmjiBsOJWJg7-8IUFvz76biCsSv6RYcM6Z7mL25_ESqJTLLQsO6EiTao9j736WP-/s1600/IMG_3728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0bRB04sAoaIfmXgJe6XM-D4nkINEtpx4hPpoPl0mwznP7l_J8ZneQdVxaSiKpolzjwkhFFBI80TdTpmjiBsOJWJg7-8IUFvz76biCsSv6RYcM6Z7mL25_ESqJTLLQsO6EiTao9j736WP-/s640/IMG_3728.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors</td></tr>
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The Limited Edition Luxe Lip Colors retail for $52 each from the Bobbi Brown <a href="http://www.bobbibrown.com.au/product/2342/37182/Makeup/Lips/Lip-Color/Luxe-Lip-Color/FH15#undefined1">website</a>, and there is usually a sample offer with every purchase (<i>for instance, these Lip Colors presently ship free and also include a free mini lip gloss</i>). If you sign up to the newsletter, they usually email you with free sample offers every now and then. Alternatively, you can find the nearest Bobbi Brown counter at a David Jones near you.<br />
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What do you think of these lipsticks, lovelies? Do any of the shades strike your fancy?<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
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PS- Linking up with the lovely Ingrid from <a href="http://www.fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/">Fabulous and Fun Life</a>, so head on over to check out the other amazing posts from this week!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i><br />
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The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-23158911342798270102016-08-14T21:05:00.000+10:002016-08-14T21:09:41.796+10:00Clarisonic Mia 2 Review! Hi lovelies!<br />
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How have you all been keeping this cold winter? The cold snap has been making me want to make like a bear and hibernate! The awfully cold weather outside goes hand in hand with insanely hot heating inside, all of which is making my skin act up from being bounced about between either extreme. As a result, I've really had to up my skincare game...an effort made a lot easier thanks to this nifty little device - the Clarisonic Mia 2!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY7BTUpccTaWNj9MQN2CcyXDWhIU-pTpztU4G-Lc84kkFoEwPVrOHdg-0u0aor-KCXHe8LE9LK5JXYeDhw1YbdWIm5lRZSWrWupEt4VljYKO3pMbRuTEbGo_ogHLxa-MwUkz6LFjBXlA0/s1600/IMG_2452+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY7BTUpccTaWNj9MQN2CcyXDWhIU-pTpztU4G-Lc84kkFoEwPVrOHdg-0u0aor-KCXHe8LE9LK5JXYeDhw1YbdWIm5lRZSWrWupEt4VljYKO3pMbRuTEbGo_ogHLxa-MwUkz6LFjBXlA0/s640/IMG_2452+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Clarisonic Mia 2</td></tr>
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<b>A bit of background.</b><br />
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I've actually owned a Mia 2 for over three years now, which is why I'm amazed I've never blogged about it before. I think it's because I wanted to test it out for a good length of time before I blogged about it, but then I got distracted by other things! I also got a bit lazy about using mine regularly, thanks to continually forgetting to charge it (<i>not that it's hard at all, I've just been really bad with planning ahead of late</i>). I was recently invited to a Clarisonic event where we learned more about the device and its benefits, all of which resulted in me vowing to be more disciplined about using it daily. As you may have inferred from the name, the Mia 2 is actually an updated model of the original Mia 1; the Mia 2 has two speeds and a built-in timer, which is why I opted for it over the original Mia when I purchased mine years ago.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QF97A46IyAOkMB3xI-iUx8fQn_GN7pjU6hXr9npTjqJAqJTeLZgnfitxy7cj4GubdCAbHeTWDYe0l-89UiyX1rs6ccDfmNfmzB_Am-d2qUdzrbn1U-zIAAsscIkKGUTyXKo6iPYe7e-v/s1600/IMG_2442+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QF97A46IyAOkMB3xI-iUx8fQn_GN7pjU6hXr9npTjqJAqJTeLZgnfitxy7cj4GubdCAbHeTWDYe0l-89UiyX1rs6ccDfmNfmzB_Am-d2qUdzrbn1U-zIAAsscIkKGUTyXKo6iPYe7e-v/s640/IMG_2442+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Clarisonic Mia 2</td></tr>
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<b>How does it work?</b><br />
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The Mia 2 differs from other cleansing brushes in the market by utilising an oscillating sonic technology to deep clean the skin. The 'cradle-rocking' technology provides more than 300 movements per second to clean the skin more efficiently and gently, up to six times better than standard superficial cleansing. The technology is so gentle that it can be used on the surface of a raw egg yolk without breaking it. We were treated to a live demonstration where the Clarisonic was used on the surface of pantyhose without ripping it, while a competitor brush caused both rips and laddering. With six different brush heads available, you can easily change the brush head to the one that best suits your skin type.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifkMeYuL6GzsjT3SIyd6HHRNZwdCfn0qe6nXkP2clFT9seJnV9uMsL3erobURCS6CeiyLn2ToaWc1x4aamNqOGR4F_ks1cmcJ6o8yqJmOBqcd4O4QYnmD-GgUMtBiqxR-TURzNMYYV8Xn/s1600/IMG_2448+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifkMeYuL6GzsjT3SIyd6HHRNZwdCfn0qe6nXkP2clFT9seJnV9uMsL3erobURCS6CeiyLn2ToaWc1x4aamNqOGR4F_ks1cmcJ6o8yqJmOBqcd4O4QYnmD-GgUMtBiqxR-TURzNMYYV8Xn/s640/IMG_2448+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The nifty travel case which protects your Mia 2 during travelling.</td></tr>
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<b>Keep reading after the jump!</b><br />
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<b>The details...</b></div>
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It's actually pretty simple to use. The Mia 2 comes packaged in a neat box with a travel case, sensitive brush head, sample-sized cleanser and charger. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQWNQR8iKdk1D1v3ucUz9Tlt8lahOGwCT_L-xDozn6pA0xeu94oKNJeBsS9UlHsqaZUZqhxPh_0IhTgadyfPYquqJnTAxiDAf50q7YTRxwlqXA3hUvbzyAbJ872KFjpUr5UQj8xPq2v2Z/s1600/IMG_2447+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQWNQR8iKdk1D1v3ucUz9Tlt8lahOGwCT_L-xDozn6pA0xeu94oKNJeBsS9UlHsqaZUZqhxPh_0IhTgadyfPYquqJnTAxiDAf50q7YTRxwlqXA3hUvbzyAbJ872KFjpUr5UQj8xPq2v2Z/s640/IMG_2447+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The items provided with the Clarisonic Mia 2.</td></tr>
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It's waterproof, which makes it perfect for use in the shower. This is ideal for me as I love cleansing my face while I'm conditioning my hair. As you can see on the photo below, all the parts are clearly demonstrated on the box. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggm46vZ0Ix4DxK2BGmQ4uJ57q4yhfpsA5TLmSeXmAIZoMlNhWQNSXo_uDdLMIxk2jtOLytgSkmXkSaX8VxeUab9ov8hMbnIYVowFa3qVZD2m6uYeGwDPXNadf4-Jgw6RoUb2aB0r_zj5y7/s1600/IMG_2443+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggm46vZ0Ix4DxK2BGmQ4uJ57q4yhfpsA5TLmSeXmAIZoMlNhWQNSXo_uDdLMIxk2jtOLytgSkmXkSaX8VxeUab9ov8hMbnIYVowFa3qVZD2m6uYeGwDPXNadf4-Jgw6RoUb2aB0r_zj5y7/s640/IMG_2443+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Mia 2 comes with two speeds, delicate and universal, to select from. Cleansing with this device is super easy as you can clean your whole face in 60 seconds - 20 seconds on your forehead, 10 seconds on each cheek, and 20 seconds on your nose and chin. The built-in timer (<i>the grey oval around the power and speed buttons in the photo below</i>) pulsates at the end of each period so you know when to move on to the next section. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kzyhwQ_bQtNJbENnw0WmGdssryouL_KIvUBIaKGDVPAV33sEI3_HS70K6HNudmw_fbB3-Z3UgdcCFZX79epNF71S3gi_VXREGlHbBrWjPhqTGUxG9V7z5M9ydhATCABdpYd0N4B2bW2p/s1600/IMG_2454+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kzyhwQ_bQtNJbENnw0WmGdssryouL_KIvUBIaKGDVPAV33sEI3_HS70K6HNudmw_fbB3-Z3UgdcCFZX79epNF71S3gi_VXREGlHbBrWjPhqTGUxG9V7z5M9ydhATCABdpYd0N4B2bW2p/s640/IMG_2454+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can also watch this handy video by Clarisonic if that's more your <i>thang</i>! </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zNu6lfNccY8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zNu6lfNccY8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<b>My personal experience.</b></div>
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While you can use the Mia 2 to remove your makeup, I've always preferred to use it as the second part of double-cleansing, after first removing my makeup with a cleansing oil. I simply step into the shower, wet the brush head, and pour a little cleanser straight onto the brush head. Press the power button and then follow the prompts as per the built-in timer! I find that the brush feels very soft on my skin, though the 'tickling' feel as it glides over your skin can take a little getting used to in the beginning. I also like leaving mine on the universal speed and seldom change speeds.</div>
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<div>
<b>How does my skin feel after?</b></div>
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I can definitely attest to the fact that my skin feels so much softer and smoother with daily use of the Clarisonic, and my skincare products absorb better. I sometimes get a little congestion around my nose, and using the Mia 2 (<i>together with a clarifying mask a couple of times a week</i>) has definitely worked wonders in clearing that up. I also sometimes switch up my routine by using the Mia 2 before applying my makeup, as I find my makeup looks so much nicer after I've cleansed with the Mia 2.</div>
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<b>A little housekeeping...</b></div>
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That all sounds well and good, but what about maintenance? Well, it's actually simple to clean the brush head, I simply rinse it well after each use and also clean it with some foaming face wash every couple of days. You get 20 uses with each full charge, after which you'll need to charge it for several hours. The charger is magnetic and automatically locks onto the handle, as shown on the photo below. I simply plug mine in and leave it to charge overnight; you'll know when it is done charging as the light around the power button remains consistently lit, as opposed to pulsing on and off as it charges. Just remember to charge it for 24 hours before the first use!</div>
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I bought my Mia 2 directly from the US as it wasn't available here at the time, but fortunately Clarisonic is now available here in Australia, so you can buy it directly from the Clarisonic Australia <a href="http://www.clarisonic.com.au/shop-our-products/cleansing-devices/clarisonic-mia-2">website</a>, or stores like David Jones, Myer, Mecca, Sephora and Adore Beauty for $199. There are quite a few lovely colours available, so go and have a browse!</div>
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There you go, lovelies! Do you like the sound of the Mia 2? It's such an integral part of my skincare routine now!</div>
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Much love,</div>
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MM.</div>
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x</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: The device pictured was kindly provided in a goodie bag for editorial consideration, but all thoughts shared in this review are based on personal experience with a device purchased by me. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i></div>
The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-40856917162940053952016-08-04T22:13:00.005+10:002016-08-04T22:18:53.455+10:00NOTD - OPI Wooden Shoe Like To Know?Hi lovelies!<br />
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I hope you're all keeping warm and dry! I'm rugged up in my PJs, a fluffy sunshine yellow bathrobe and with a cup of hot green tea by my side as I type this! But hey, at least I have pretty nails...which brings me to the topic of this post!<br />
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As you may or may not know, I am currently hosting an Instagram challenge over on my Instagram page, #7dayswithmm. I thought it would be a fun way to challenge myself (<i>and whoever decided to join me</i>), and also have a bit of fun along the way! Just to sweeten the pot a little, I'm also giving away a set of Maybelline lipsticks (<i>the ones I wrote about <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2016/07/maybelline-new-york-vivid-matte-liquid.html">here</a></i>) and an amazeballs Clinique gift pack! It's not too late to join in if you're so inclined!<br />
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Anyhoo, the theme for Day 4 was nails, so here's what I came up with! I used OPI Wooden Shoe Like To Know for my base, OPI Liquid Sand in Honey Ryder for my middle finger, and an accent nail with dry marbling using Revlon Gold Coin and Orly Liquid Vinyl on my ring finger.<br />
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What do you think, lovelies? I'd love to hear your feedback!<br />
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Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<br />
<br />The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5535045594497454588.post-47597471433696204902016-07-27T00:36:00.004+10:002016-07-27T00:47:04.987+10:00Maybelline New York Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks Review, Swatches and Giveaway!Hi lovelies!<br />
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I hope you're all well and if you're in Australia, staying warm in this frigid weather we're having! If you're anywhere else in the world, I'm really jealous of you right now with your warm(er) weather! Anyhow, I wanted to share a new launch with you which is currently giving my lips a bit of sunshine these cold winter days...the new Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid* lipsticks. I first gave you a sneak peek of these lippies in this <a href="http://www.themadeupmaiden.com/2016/06/sneak-preview-maybelline-2016-second_29.html">post</a>, and since they were the product I was most excited for, I couldn't wait to share my thoughts with you!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRIz_ddCDJxGqFg2pTdeMyyYSf_4YkHDh9bvLORpCyR04oUXPDMqk0CUFj1qmZ6s7pXRwBb3j7zA0aZZbLfQ_76tkK4Eyx8RdXmc1pmXECFVJIwNG60NFIzVxkEa9UuL9CfrQYEbwuV1R/s1600/IMG_1519+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRIz_ddCDJxGqFg2pTdeMyyYSf_4YkHDh9bvLORpCyR04oUXPDMqk0CUFj1qmZ6s7pXRwBb3j7zA0aZZbLfQ_76tkK4Eyx8RdXmc1pmXECFVJIwNG60NFIzVxkEa9UuL9CfrQYEbwuV1R/s640/IMG_1519+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybelline New York Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks.</td></tr>
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The pitch from Maybelline reads:<br />
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<i>"Drench your lips in double the pigments for the ultimate colour payoff with a comfortable, matte finish. Bolder and fiercer than ever before, the Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Color has a luxurious matte finish that's never dry or flat."</i><br />
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Do I agree with this statement? Yes and no, but more on that later. First up, as always, let's talk packaging. These liquid lipsticks are packaged in a square, see-through tube with a screw top lid and doe-foot applicator. I quite like the packaging as it makes it easy to pick out the shade you're after, and there's also no chance of it accidentally coming apart in your bag. The doe-foot applicator also makes it really easy to get a perfect application in seconds.<br />
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Keep reading after the jump!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQZGnQUWrZfzpzWYlDr4WNBuCi0HRMLT2kydlb114kkVSz5hbJ91a82rRoRXDlJZqvX4arrLi5Zril_CUwqROpMiByG_0E4CNfpGIm0ZsMyMOhgCfILwGLxSXQE6F1yZTf450eEXBsjkp/s1600/IMG_1528+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQZGnQUWrZfzpzWYlDr4WNBuCi0HRMLT2kydlb114kkVSz5hbJ91a82rRoRXDlJZqvX4arrLi5Zril_CUwqROpMiByG_0E4CNfpGIm0ZsMyMOhgCfILwGLxSXQE6F1yZTf450eEXBsjkp/s640/IMG_1528+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Maybelline New York Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9KfGVRBWId_Y0M3WzQjCgzq-xXvUiU_MP84T7GBwR6RwMf5ASphaDJtDZkvVrfiSl5sqpuis-MDZOH8-6NCCUozIMJDrVVGF0G7CsUhK7vURBh4BpoLi5YbCZvbiNLw4VdSEzu7xOH9f/s1600/IMG_1524+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9KfGVRBWId_Y0M3WzQjCgzq-xXvUiU_MP84T7GBwR6RwMf5ASphaDJtDZkvVrfiSl5sqpuis-MDZOH8-6NCCUozIMJDrVVGF0G7CsUhK7vURBh4BpoLi5YbCZvbiNLw4VdSEzu7xOH9f/s640/IMG_1524+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shades (L-R) Nude Thrill, Nude Flush, Electric Pink, Berry Boost, Fuchsia Ecstasy, Rebel Red, Orange Shot & Possessed Plum.</td></tr>
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There are a total of 8 shades available here in Australia, which are:<br />
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Nude Thrill - a nude brown<br />
Nude Flush - a pink nude<br />
Electric Pink - a blue based bright pink<br />
Berry Boost - a deep berry pink<br />
Fuchsia Ecstasy -a bright fuchsia<br />
Rebel Red - a deep red<br />
Orange Shot - a bright orange pink<br />
Possessed Plum - a deep plum<br />
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I'm quite impressed with the selection as there's something to suit all tastes, including nudes, brights, and a deep shade that's perfect for winter. My personal favourites are Nude Flush, Berry Boost, Rebel Red and Possessed Plum, though I really do like all the shades in this range.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhmffLUJfwziZBqhHADSEC_r-OHi6zDy4BleVIlV9iTuFcnZh9NkyXts5An-zYkzGaPKRpZFl2JMAZR36t-akIFOSEJItN3hbDeauoB0-s18vCXvh4j0kxmtsfs5kMTu2Y2bclv4vM_2V/s1600/IMG_1529+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhmffLUJfwziZBqhHADSEC_r-OHi6zDy4BleVIlV9iTuFcnZh9NkyXts5An-zYkzGaPKRpZFl2JMAZR36t-akIFOSEJItN3hbDeauoB0-s18vCXvh4j0kxmtsfs5kMTu2Y2bclv4vM_2V/s640/IMG_1529+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Maybelline New York Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks.</span></td></tr>
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As for the formula/texture...these lipsticks are incredibly pigmented, smooth and creamy, however, they are <b style="font-style: italic;">certainly not matte </b>in appearance. They also have a slight floral scent. As you can see from the swatch photo below, they deliver saturated colour but appear quite glossy, and the same holds true when applied to the lips. If I was pressed to name these, I would call them a glossy liquid lipstick or an intense lipgloss, because they never dry to a matte finish. On the plus side, they don't have a sticky texture that a lipgloss would have, and never dry out the lips, which is particularly of benefit in winter.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shades (L-R): Nude Thrill, Nude Flush, Electric Pink, Berry Boost, Fuchsia Ecstasy, Rebel Red, Orange Shot & Possessed Plum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Some of the shades apply a little more evenly (<i>with Berry Boost, Fuchsia Ecstasy and Rebel Red being classic examples)</i>, while others (<i>like Possessed Plum</i>) are a little more uneven. I've found that I get the best wear from them with a matching lip liner worn underneath. They do wear off well (<i>though they are not transfer-proof</i>), leaving a slight stain behind, but you never get that dreaded ring of colour that some liquid lipsticks offer.<br />
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Overall, I'd say that I'm a fan of these, as I like how versatile the shades are, and also because you can choose to wear these on their own for a subtle look or layer these for a really bold lip. I'd agree with the Maybelline statement that these are comfortable, bold and fierce, but disagree with the part on a matte finish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenOf9J86OcS5Q8zvuE-4QYQo2b54QasQUnWxG0isf9Ca6xknxm870ghApnsCsRb8jawlMG5SsFyfD33GKEdqIBSN2cfd4NjoImrzVzgsEim0NhqGoCeZqsTorAP9no4YMPBhmV0Si0EV-/s1600/IMG_1523+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenOf9J86OcS5Q8zvuE-4QYQo2b54QasQUnWxG0isf9Ca6xknxm870ghApnsCsRb8jawlMG5SsFyfD33GKEdqIBSN2cfd4NjoImrzVzgsEim0NhqGoCeZqsTorAP9no4YMPBhmV0Si0EV-/s640/IMG_1523+%2528800x800%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Maybelline New York Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks.</span></td></tr>
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If you're after a liquid lipstick that's comfortable, lasts 2-3 hours and has intense pigmentation, the Vivid Matte Liquid lipsticks* definitely tick those boxes. However, if you're after a matte, transfer-proof lipstick, this may not be the best product for you.<br />
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The Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid Lipsticks are available at $17.95 from standard Maybelline retailers like Priceline, Target, Chemist Warehouse etc. And for the exciting part; I will be hosting a 7-day challenge on Instagram that starts on the 1st of August and I will be offering two prizes, one of which will be a full set of these lipsticks! Details provided below, and you can also refer to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BIUy4DYAWen/?taken-by=themadeupmaiden&hl=en">this post</a> on Instagram.<br />
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What do you think of these lipsticks, lovelies? Have you tried these? Are you a fan? Do you prefer a smooth, creamy lip or a matte lip? Will you be joining me on my 7-day instagram challenge?<br />
<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
MM.<br />
x<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: These products were kindly provided in a goodie bag for editorial consideration. This has not affected my opinion in any way. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.</span></i></div>
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The Made Up Maidenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04918382702015050407noreply@blogger.com13