The Service Haircuts and styling
On Her Speed Dial Andy Ong, Kim Robinson

Let’s play a game. Think of one person you have seen once a week, every week, for the last decade or so. Got it? For the majority of us, the people who come to mind are mum, dad, a couple of best friends, a lover... perhaps even a colleague. For Astrie Sunindar‑Ratner, the name is Andy Ong.

It all started 10 years ago, back when the 35-year-old was recommended the Kim Robinson studio by the concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, where she was staying upon her return from New York. “I tried Andy’s blow-dry service first to see if I liked his style.”

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Clearly, she did. Astrie went back to the stylist, who’s on Kim Robinson’s creative team, for countless more appointments. When a change of hairstyle was due, Ong was the only man for the job. His work made the cut—she’s donned the same bouncy do with soft bangs ever since.

There are benefits to their familiar relationship. “He knows me so well, I don’t tell him what I want any more.” He immediately proves her statement true when he attests that her biggest pet peeve is an outgrown fringe. Her compliments come swift and steady.“Andy is speedy—I’m usually in and out of the salon in half an hour.” She adds, “Believe me, his head massages are out of this world.”

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The admiration is mutual. Ong tells us that even though Astrie is a successful business owner (she’s the founder and director of lifestyle concept store The Beauty Candy Apothecary at Mandarin Gallery), her sincerity is palpable. “We share tatler_tatler_stories about our families and we aren’t afraid to give each other advice,” he says. “She puts her trust in me and I’m glad to call her a friend.”

Photography: Darren Gabriel Leow
Fashion Direction: Desmond Lim  
Hair and Make-Up: Sha Shamsi/Indigo Artisans, using L’oréal Professionel and Too Faced, at Sephora

Astrie wears Happy Diamonds ring in rose gold and Happy Diamonds watch, both by Chopard; dress and Cartier Love bracelet, both her own.