“THIS ismy favorite sweater. I absolutely love how you get to show unexpected skin at the back without looking tasteless.”

“I can spend hours reading makeup reviews online,” says Maan Marquez, one of the model newcomers who has graced magazine editorials. While she admits to being a makeup maven, Maan zones in on the importance of a good skincare routine.

“No matter how much gunk you put on your face, the trick is to remove it once you get home. Clinique has such a good toner and I swear Estee Lauder’s eye serum works wonders.”

Product after product, Maan displays her littlest secrets: Chanel’s Hydra Gel cream, Organature Balancing Essence, and assorted mascaras from Maybelline. “I spend about five minutes putting on mascara that just instantly brightens up my eyes!”

“YOU DON’T have to follow trends, just be aware of them.”

While looking one’s best may be a necessity in the model world, first impressions are hugely made up of one’s sartorial

sensibilities, too. As Maan led us into her room, she said she didn’t collect trends. True enough, we unearthed a number of classics: a chambray top, white long sleeved shirt, the famous little black dress, and a merry mix of sweaters with different cuts.

“I usually just buy the basics; following trends will make you broke,” she said. “It’s more creative to find a style that is distinctly yours.”