Juicy Couture teamed up with author and fashion editor Melissa Magsaysay to fete the release of her new book City of Style: Exploring Los Angeles Fashion, from Bohemian to Rock. The curious pair may very well have been inspired by Juicy Couture’s affinity to fashion publications—the Madison Avenue store is stacked with similar collector-worthy editions of style-savvy reads acting as eclectic décor. The celebration boasted L.A. inspired tunes, snackable bites, and summer cocktails. Plus, the retailer offered a festive 20% off Juicy Couture merch to a crowd of loyal patrons. The bi-level store buzzed with shoppers taking full advantage of the lively summer collection, perusing the racks and lining up for their chance to meet Melissa as she signed each crisp edition.

A stunning visual ride through L.A.’s fashion past, City of Style reveals Los Angeles’s far-reaching influence on the style evolution of the world at large—and showcases the brilliant, idiosyncratic individuals who have fueled its powerful transformations.

City of Style’s timely release makes it the perfect summer read for any fashionista—no west coast area code required. Although Magsaysay’s book is based on Los Angeles’ (her hometown) melting pot of styles, each look is relevant from coast to coast. Inspired by the city’s variety of neighborhoods and the unique fashion that has emerged from each, City of Style takes a comprehensive look at trademarked styles from Skater and Surfer to Romantic Bohemian, Rocker to Casual Chic. She describes each look from its origins to becoming recognizable representations of how people identify themselves through fashion. Citing celebrities and photographing street style stars that embody each category, Magsaysay gets to know her style subjects with interview questions regarding anything from their occupations to what they’re wearing. Our favorite parts of each ‘fashion chapter’ are the descriptions of “How to Get the Look” and “Where to Shop” which features boutiques around town whose merchandise caters to each type of clientele. Basically, the book boils down to answering the question, “What is style in L.A.?” There are also super sweet fashion illustrations, courtesy of Melissa Boock, that add artsy flair and set the tone to encourage readers to try a new look and make each style their own. 

We highly recommend City of Style—it belongs in the beach bag of every self-proclaimed fashionista. And we trust Melissa Magsaysay as an authority on the subject; she’s got some pretty serious fashion credentials. She’s the former style editor of the Los Angeles Times and before that she was the west coast fashion market editor at Women’s Wear Daily. She’s also responsible for some pretty gorgeous styling, which you can check out on her site here. Follow Melissa’s jet-setting lifestyle and her fashion faves on the City of Style blog. While you’re at it, hop on over here to snag a copy of her book for yourself. And all your fashionable friends.