When it comes to fashion capitals, California is in a class of its own. From Haight-Ashbury's hippie style to Malibu's laid-back surfer gear to Rodeo Drive's Oscar gowns, the West Coast has defined American cool for well over a century. And as the birthplace of blue jeansthe most influential item in contemporary clothingthe Golden State has transformed world chic. \nCombining color and stunning black-and-white photographs, designer sketches, film stills, period advertisements, and a detailed, anecdotal text, California Fashion confirms the originality of the state's sunny style from 1850 to the present. Images of Rudi Gernreich's infamous topless bathing suit, Cher in Bob Mackie, Janis Joplin's San Francisco finery, and Rita Hayworth in Jean Louis will show readers why the world worships California girls.