Best of: Excuses to Break Resolutions

It’s that time of year again—filled with facetious resolutions to eat more leafy greens, smile at strangers, cut down on the “Real Housewives” habit , and learn a foreign language. But before you while away the remaining days of January dreaming of a fitter, happier, Italian-speaking you, check out A&E’s list of the most common New Year’s resolutions and proposed ways to ditch those short-lived promises now—and in spectacular style.

Resolution #1: Spend less, save more

Attention to all fashionistas suffering from frugality fatigue: Christian Louboutin—the man behind the iconic red-soled stilettos—is celebrating his 20th anniversary with exclusive limited-edition shoes, on display at Barneys New York (660 Madison Ave., at East 61st Street). Adding to their appeal, each pair will be personally autographed by Louboutin himself. These darlings can be picked up for a mammoth four grand, pricey enough to kiss that “spend less, save more” mentality goodbye. If splurging is impossible, opt to indulge in window-shopping fantasies at the window front à la “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” or purchase the special anniversary book depicting the history of Louboutin’s designs.

Resolution #2: Tame the bulge

The most famous of all New Year’s resolutions—eating healthy and staying fit—often turns out to be a trying and melancholy experience. Ditch those dieting blues with a sugar-rush treat at Two Little Red Hens (1652 Second Ave., between 85th and 86th streets). According to Serious Eats, this quaint, unimposing bakery on the Upper East Side is home to New York’s best cheesecake, a classic spiced carrot cake, and a tender-crumbed ginger mango pear pie, among other worthy creations. Its standout Brooklyn Blackout Cupcake, filled with a cool, voluptuous pudding and sealed with a layer of fudge, will sate anybody’s craving for chocolate.

Resolution #3: Lose the alcohol

While New Year’s Eve hangovers may be reason to quit drinking, the happy hours at Verlaine (110 Rivington St., between Essex and Ludlow streets) will likely cause many a shattered resolution. The sleek, dimly lit Lower East Side lounge specializes in Vietnamese-inspired cocktails—think lychee martinis, sangria, and Bloody Marys—made with a choice of lemongrass, melon, or hot pepper vodka. And the deals won’t put a dent on the wallet: Select drinks are half off between 5 and 10 p.m. daily, with additional discounts on Sunday and Monday evenings.

Resolution #4: Manage time effectively

Regardless of whether the world will be coming to an end anytime soon, there’s no excuse for getting caught in the daily grind of time management. But rather than escaping from real time via Facebook or Twitter, ride the 6 train towards the Brooklyn Bridge, and stay on as the train loops around to return uptown. Passengers with time to spare will pass through the abandoned but beautifully preserved City Hall Station, which closed to the public in 1945. Situated along a rounded portion of the track, the platform and mezzanine are uncommonly elegant, complete with skylights, brass chandeliers, and colored-glass tile work. A time-consuming trip for sure, but time well spent.