L’Oreal sent me their original Volume Million Lashes mascara (R169,95) the other day and I was super keen to try it as I really like their So Couture version.

Volume Million Lashes promises volume, length and zero clumps and it certainly lives up to the latter two. I liked that it created a lovely, defined look and really did extend the look of each lash – perfect for a day at the office. I still prefer So Couture though. While it doesn’t lengthen or define as well, it does bring the volume, and that’s the look I like best. More is more, darlings!

The bottom line? Both of these mascaras are total keepers but if you’re after definition and length, the original’s your baby. Want a tad more volume? Opt for So Couture.

Moving on, let’s take a look at a few new nail colours from Tip Top. I can’t believe their price hasn’t gone up in two years – they’re still just R39 each and the quality, for the most part, is really pretty decent.

While its not really evident in the pic, the fuchsia colour is actually more of a dark berry which, personally, I feel is a bit more suited to colder weather. To be honest, most of the colours feel a little autumnal to me but In My Genes (on the right up top) and Lady Lilla (on the right down below) have a certain freshness to them. In My Genes actually reminds me just a little bit of Nail Inc’s super popular Baker Street polish but without the hefty price tag.

Last, but not least, get a load of Maybelline Baby Lips’ new Electro line. They should be in stores right now and are only R29,99 a pop.

As far as lip balms go, Strike A Rose is the business. It smells and tastes like a strawberry Fizzer, feels like you’re using a Labello and boasts a very visible tint that – wait for it – leaves a stain in it’s wake! Love that!

While Minty Sheer and Fierce N Tangy aren’t my bag (my lips crave colour) I have to give the latter props for its seriously yummy, juicy pineapple scent and taste. It had me dreaming of pina coladas all moring but definitely no walks in the rain. Winter can, like, totally piss off now.

Love, love

Leigh