Some of the rules you guys have listed are very true, I don't know why you dont believe them.
(1) don't wear white in the winter. Why would you? To get your favourite white pants dirty in the puddles, salt, dirt, etc?
(2)Black slims fat people. Do this: if you have a bit of a belly, wear a white slim tshirt or top. See the tummy? Now, change into a black one. See it now? 'Nuff said.
(3)Redheads can't wear pink. I have actually never heard this, but now that I picture a redhead wearing pink, I see it. I think it would look pretty cute, but if there was another rule like that, it's not for nothing.
In my opinion, whatever your mother says should not be wasted. Look at what we wear now, sweatpants outside, etc. In our mother's days, they had to have 3 strings of pearls at all times. And now tell me, why were the 1900's the best? Everybody looked so proper, compared to now. You shouldn't say "Rules shmules," the rules are there for a reason. When you guys say "Whatever looks good on you goes." Well, ever seen anyone wear lace and paisley? They thought it looked good, but do they have any experience with fashion or style, or even any taste and style? I think not.
EDIT: Navy and black can look cute together, but brown and black will not, ever!