When your schedule’s jam-packed with the kids’ recitals and after-school events, it’s hard to find time to spend on your look. But you don’t need to let being a mom hinder your personal style. Here 5 simple steps to help you get stay on track:

1. Update Your Hairstyle
Taking care of yourself may be last on your list of things to do. But up near the top, add “Get a new ‘do.” The haircut you’ve had since high school likely isn’t the most flattering. Ask your stylist for a fresh change (whether it’s a fringe, layers, or a more blunt cut) and let him know you need a style that’s easy to maintain and will last several months.

2. Avoid Sparkly Lipgloss
Glitter lipgloss is for girls and may make you look more like a wannabe yummy than a stylish mummy. Choose a lipstick or gloss in a hue close to your natural lip colour in a smooth, satin finish.

3. Break Free from Your Makeup Routine
Revive your look and try something new with your makeup. Whether it’s a different blush tone or a new way of accentuating your eyes with eyeshadow, it’s always good to play with new colours and ways of contouring and highlighting. Although you might be in love with your look right now, you may find a slight modification makes it even better. Not sure where to start? Hit the makeup counter for a free trial.

4. Wear Stylish Shoes
You must break free from running shoes and clogs, unless you’re at the gym or working in the garden. Don’t worry if you can’t do the high heel thing (they’re bad for your feet anyway), there are chic and comfy alternatives. Try sporty sneakers, ballerina flats or a wedge heel. You’ll feel good and you’ll look more polished, too.

5. Outlaw Baggy Clothing
Who doesn’t love avoiding dressing room hassles by sticking to the “one size fits all” promise? But those dated, baggy jeans, which have become soft from going through the wash cycle a thousand times, and those oversized tees that are interchangeable with your husband’s wardrobe should never be worn in public. A fitted blouse or sweater with a crisp pair of dress pants fitted at the waist and straight through the leg can take you from the playground to the grocery story to a coffee date with your best friend.

You don’t have to look like a supermodel each time you step outside your home. But if you take a moment (or ten) for yourself, the world will become your runway!