Rachael Ruddick may be something of a global nomad, but her heart belongs to Australia. The Tasmanian-born leathergoods designer and entrepreneur now lives between New York City and Los Angeles, but she's also called Sao Paulo, Sydney and London home. With a background in luxury brand management and innate sense of style, we knew her guide to the Big Apple would be a fashionable one, and she didn't disappoint. Describe New York City in 5 words: Addictive energy, inspiring and a culturally rich melting pot. What are your top 5 must-pack wardrobe items? These are completely weather dependent, based on how seasonal the climate is. Layers are critical in NYC. As are shoes you can walk in and a cross-body bag. And your top 4 beauty products? Ko Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloths Dior One Essential City Defence SPF 50 La Mer The Reparative Skin Tint SPF 30 La Mer The Revitalising Hydrating Serum  Favourite places to stay? Downtown: The Crosby Hotel or Gramercy Park Hotel Uptown: The Penninsula or One Hotel Your top 3 all-time favourite restaurants? Beatrice Inn or the Waverley Inn, both are authentic NYC eating spots. Raos, which is the hardest seat to secure in NYC. Based in Harlem, most tables are ‘owned' by hosts. Kiki’s on the Lower East side. Great ambience and food, the perfect vibe. The must-order dish is the Greek salad and fish. Where’s great to go for... Cocktails or drinks? The Rose Bar at the Gramercy Park Hotel A long lunch? Head to Fred, at Barney's Uptown A quick bite? Roman Williams Guild Fine dining? Eleven Madison Park The most Instagram-friendly spot in town is...? Following a snow storm, definitely Washington Square Park or Central Park. Best place to take a stroll and see the sights? Take a stroll around Central Park, Fifth Avenue uptown, or Mercer Street in Soho. For greater heights, head up the Empire State Building. What is the one experience in NYC that you can’t have anywhere else in the world? A visit to the One World Trade viewing deck. Outline your itinerary for the perfect 24 hours: Morning: Take a helicopter in from JFK airport, across the city Night-time: Do dinner at the Waverley Inn Overnight: Stay at the One Hotel The Next Day: Have an Aussie breakfast at Ruby's Top 3 must-visit cultural hot spots? The arts area in West Chelsea is great, in particular 303 Gallery. Also be sure to visit the MOMA, The Frick Collection, the Whitney and the Met. Sit courtside at Madison Square Garden for a game of basketball, or a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Top 3 places to shop in New York City? Totokaelo, The Webster, and Barneys. What is the song that best encapsulates this place to you? "Empire State of Mind" by Jay Z and Alicia Keys. Still the best. You can find Rachael Ruddick on Instagram at @rachaelruddick