Most times, we assume we know all those rules that make for a good appearance, but sometimes, we find ourselves forgetting them. So here’s a reminder of all those style rules that makes sure you turn out looking your best and a few you didn’t even know. Since style is not just about what you wear but also about your whole appearance, there are some on general care thrown in as well. Some of these rules apply to men as well.

1) Thou shall not neglect your overall appearance.

Everyone knows this, don’t they? It’s a fact that when you look good, chances are you’ll feel good. Even if you’re alone, making the effort to look good will add tons to your self-esteem. So no tying a wrapper across the chest when you’re at home, ladies!

2) Thou shall take care of your mouth

Ever met someone who looked unbelievably elegant, but you immediately cover your nose when he opens his mouth? If you don’t want to be in that place, keep your teeth brushed. Ever tried flossing? You may not notice your teeth because you’re not looking at it, but your smile is the first thing people notice about you. If you still have bad breath, see a dentist.

3) Thou shall not forget your hands

I remember seeing a recent interview of a society lady in one of the papers. She had a beautiful smile and a great figure, but your eyes couldn’t stay away from the one broken fingernail on her hand. Good hands are like the icing on the cake that is your whole appearance. Soften your hands with lotion and keep your fingernails clean. Top this off with a great manicure.

4) Thou shall not over-pluck your eyebrows

Some of us get carried away sometimes when plucking those eyebrows, leading to that perpetually startled look that some ladies have. Carefully take off the excess, making sure to retain a natural look. If you make a mistake, use an eyebrow or eyeliner pencil the same colour as your eyebrows to fill in sparse areas.

5) Thou shall not wear heavy foundation or too much make up.

Unless you’re going on television, stay away from overly heavy foundation and make up as it makes you look cheap, clogs your pores and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. The key to style and elegance is subtle, not loud.

6) Thou shall blend in make-up

If you look in the mirror and your neck is a different colour from your face, there’s trouble in paradise. Make-up is supposed to enhance your looks, not create a totally new one. Always blend in your make up to soften lines. Foundation and eye shadow need to be smoothed in for a natural look.

7) Thou shall clean your make-up applicators and brushes

If you’re prone to pimples and skin blemishes, you should read this with keen interest. Applicators and brushes should be cleaned at least bi-weekly. Oil and bacteria build-up can wreak havoc.

8) Thou shall not use too dark lip liner.

Don’t use lip liner that is darker or lighter than your lips. When the lipstick wears off, you’re left with a dark unnatural ring around your mouth. Try using lip liner that matches your lips and fill in your entire lip area.

9) Thou shall not leave make-up on over night

We’ve all done this, but no matter how tired you are, try and wash off make-up. A decade from now, your skin will thank you for it. Leaving make-up on for long periods of time clogs your pores and makes you more prone to blemishes. And besides, removing make-up at the end of the day will make you feel better.

10) Thou shall not draw crooked, uneven lines.

Don’t use liquid eyeliner if you don’t have a steady hand. A pencil eyeliner will give you an even line, but if you must use a liquid one, make sure your lines are steady and your hands are straight.

11) Thou shall not wear clothes that don’t fit properly.

You can only get away with wearing tight clothes when you’re still in your teens. After that golden age, you tend to look as if you’re trying too hard to be sexy. Also, if you’ve a couple of bulges, too small clothes are not for you. Baggy clothes are also no good, as they make you look larger than you are. Stick to your size and look good now.

12) Thou shall not wear wrinkled clothes

No matter how beautiful that dress is, you can’t pull off your planned grand entrance if it is wrinkled. Always keep an iron handy and if you’re perpetually hit by the curse of NEPA, try investing in clothes made from wrinkle-free material.

13) Thou shall not be a trend follower

It’s alright to keep up with the trends but trying to satisfying every trend that comes along will leave you not only low in the pocket but low in style too. Always look for classic designs and styles of clothing that can weather most trend storms and build your wardrobe around those, giving a nod to the prevailing trend with a few items.

14) Thou shall not expose your underwear

Underwear is meant to be worn and not seen. Wear properly fitting undergarments under your clothing and if you still have lines, then your clothing is too tight. Try and keep bra and panty lines hidden.

15) Thou shall take time for yourself

You won’t continue to be the great wife, mother, sister, entrepreneur and friend that you are if you don’t take care of yourself. Take care of yourself and take time out to pamper yourself. You’ll feel rejuvenated and be better able to take care of others.