If you've ever wondered how Los Angeles got to be one of the celeb and style capitals of the world, look no farther than Fred Hayman. Hailed not only as the first celebrity stylist and the creator of "retail-tainment," the idea of elevating the shopping experience with entertainment, personal service, and cultivating a chic, upscale atmosphere, Hayman is considered to be the man who turned Rodeo Drive from an average main street to a world-renowned fashion and shopping destination. His 86 years of life are chronicled in the new book called "Fred Hayman The Extraordinary Difference: The Story of Rodeo Drive, Hollywoood Glamour and the Showman Who Sold It All," which details how his masterful business sense and ability to recognize opportunity led him to become one of the most influential retail giants in history. This coffee-table tome, which of course features the iconic yellow and white stripes of the Giorgio Beverly Hills boutique, will set you back $65 and give you a whole lot of insight into the self-made beginnings of the fashion industry.
(LAT)
