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When Ringo Yip quit Hong Kong for New York in the late eighties, the budding stylist assumed he’d renounce his love of hair to pursue a degree in business. But it turned out to be a passion he couldn’t shake, and the downtown hair scene is a better place for it. He opened Ringo Salon in 2005, following a five-year stint running his own private studio and—oh yeah—years of training with revered celebrity stylists Kevin Mancuso and Yannick d’Is. Clients must secure an appointment before stepping foot in his tiny salon; knowing the address might help, too, since its inconspicuous facade all but disappears among the storefronts and bodegas on its Lower East Side block. The studio serves as an extension of Yip’s home, with furniture and bric-a-brac from the fifties, sixties, and seventies, masculine tones, and an extensive collection of rock and jazz CDs. His sole specialty is long-lasting cuts (though he does employ a resident colorist), so don’t even think of asking for straightening or blowouts. Word of mouth is what rallies his clientele, a hip contingent Yip coolly describes as “young downtown professionals,” though one look at his editorial book and you’ll see the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Björk, and Penelope Cruz. A small stash of products—mainly Barex and Osmo—is for sale to clients. — Sarah Walker

This downtown spot is a cozy place to get soft styles or relaxed updos (brides from $500; bridesmaids from $100). Ringo is happy to travel anywhere in the city at no additional charge. Since he doesn’t trust verbal consultations, and believes “weddings are too important,” his trials are mandatory ($100 to $150); this will be deducted from the total price, however.

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