Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Lady Dragon X

I've had my eye on the Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Lady Dragon collection ever since their launch in 2009. However I've always just assumed that because of the plastic material they'd be really uncomfortable to wear and hard to walk in. Oh was I wrong.

After trying them on in Selfridges - just because I wanted to see if they were as uncomfortable as I thought they were - I fell in love. Spurred on by their signature sweet scent and the lovely Sales Assistant, before I could even think, I had already handed over my card and claimed them as my own.

On the surface it may seem like I've just added another pair of black shoes to my collection, but I've actually made a few firsts with this purchase: first designer shoes, first slingbacks and first peep-toe. See, I did need them after all!

Despite appearances, the heel isn't actually made of rubber, it’s a regular stiletto heel but with a plastic coating, so it there's no chance of it buckling. The peep-toe is also so small (and partially hidden by the heart anyway) that you don't really notice it, so they can be worn throughout winter with tights.

I found my usual size (UK 5) too large, however the size down is a perfect fit. That said, I would always try a pair of shoes on before purchasing - especially if they're expensive - rather than using guesswork or the advice of somebody else and their differently sized foot.

Comfort is such a subjective thing and depends on lots of different factors. For instance, I hardly ever wear heels but when I do, I wear huge platforms that are easier to walk in, with ankle straps or else I'll slip out of them. Despite that, I found this shoes really comfortable to balance and walk in and the only place where I’ve found rubbing to be an issue is on the side of my toes.

The four inch heel is sturdy and the sole cushioning squishes beneath your foot. The adjustable ankle strap is perfect for making sure you don't kick your shoe off mid stride and I wear mine on the smallest hole for good measure.

And hey, they’re waterproof, too, which is a good thing considering how rainy it’s been lately!

10 of the best things I did in New York City

The people, the food, the sites - everything in New York City is simply breathtaking. 

New Yorkers are the most easy going, straight talking people you will ever meet. The food is great, and the portions are huge - which makes it even better! The soaring skyscrapers are simply captivating and the views from them are even better. But it's the indescribable atmosphere that makes New York City my favourite place in the world. 

Just before Christmas, I spent five days in the Big Apple with my best friend and we embraced tourism with open arms. With my DSLR in one hand and a map in the other, we saw and did pretty much everything recommended in the guide book - Statue of Liberty, Macy's, Central Park - you name it, we probably did it! 

But like the experienced travellers we are, we tried to experience as many things as we could like locals. We skipped the cabs and opted for the (rather confusing) subway, drank in dingy Irish pubs in the Lower Eastside and refused to pay the 'suggested/donation price' at landmarks and tourism spots.

Here's my list of the top ten things we got to do:

My Healthy Lifestyle Resolutions for 2014

As part of my 14 things for 2014, I've decided to focus on living a healthier lifestyle. 

For me, this involves losing weight and improving my fitness, so I have set myself targets to hit along the way which will hopefully keep me on track.

I've decided to share my targets on my blog to keep me motivated and act as a permanent reminder if I ever start to slack. So here they are...

14 Things For 2014

Well, first of all, happy new year everyone!

Whether you're welcoming 2014 with open arms or reluctantly saying goodbye to an awesome year like I am, I'm sure you're probably using today as a kick of motivation and some fresh start.

While I'm not a huge fan of new year's resolutions, because I think they set you up for failure and are really restricting, I am a fan of challenging myself. Last year I gave myself one word for 2013 - Change. And boy did I change... I quit my job, went around the world, returned home with a messed up accent and found a new job and love for life.

This year I'm going to give myself a list of 14 little challenges for 2014.

How to deal with and disguise a hangover

Nothing quite says happy new year like a thumping head, loss of memory and a moment of confusion when you wake up. If you're still drunk, then you've probably not yet noticed all those spots that have appeared from nowhere, or those panda eyes that are making you wonder if you got punched last night.

If you're like me and also currently wallowing in self-pity, then take note of my hangover-busting routine. First of all, grab a pint of water and a painkiller and whilst you're up, check your bag for the holy trinity - phone, card and keys - check. Now let's move on...