Set up by Indonesian fashion designer Astrie Sunindar-Ratner, The Beauty Candy Apothecary is inspired by the quaint lifestyle boutiques of Geneva and New York, where she grew up, studied and worked in. The space in Cluny Court draws its largely female clientele with bright interiors and an aspirational curation of clothing for mums and their kids, fashion accessories and a larger range of natural or organic beauty goods, most of which make their debut here, thanks to Sunindar-Ratner’s knack for sourcing.
If you need a recommendation, Sunindar-Ratner speaks effusively about every product on the shelves, which she has personally tried, tested and chosen. Star items include the glow-imparting PRTTY PEAUSHUN Skin Tight Body Lotion ($63) that Gwyneth Paltrow slathered on religiously during the filming of Iron Man, the natural ingredient-enriched skin-firming Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum ($217), and Acca Kappa Beechwood hair brushes (from $98) that Sunindar-Ratner claims to add instant bounce and work magic on her own hair. While prices are steep for a quick browse and buy, the inventory reflects her belief that Singapore is ready for a store like hers, selling thoughtful products with an eye on provenance.
The Beauty Candy Apothecary also hops onto the juicing trend by fitting tiny bar, Fresh Pressed, at the back of the cosy space. The menu offers a variety of cold-pressed juices ($12) and gluten-free cakes ($4.50-$9) courtesy of Sunindar-Ratner’s husband, David Ratner, and chef consultant, Emmanual Stroobant. Natasha Hong