"Beverly Hills did not become celebrated—it was famous from its very beginning," Nancie Clare, author of In The Spirit Of Beverly Hills: 100 Years (Assouline $45) argues. "Beverly Hills is where dreams that have come true live." Chronicling the lavish and iconic lifestyle of Beverly Hills since its creation in 1914, the voluminous tome showcases the luxurious archictecture—from mansions to hotels and restaurants—of the city's enviable zip code. From Frank Sinatra to Marylin Monroe, Paul Newman to Madonna, and Mr. Chow to Grace Kelly, Beverly Hills has seen stars born and icons made under its seemingly perpetual sunshine and palm trees. Its magical, almost mystical, atmosphere is still appreciated and admired today, and inspires many to retreat to Los Angeles to follow their dreams.
Howard Hughes was known for living an eccentric life filled with jets, numerous divorces, and lavish parties. A passionate aviator and a recognized film producer, Hughes created the Oscar-winning films Two Arabian Knights and Scarface. Although Hughes lived in many cities across America, he made his mark on Beverly Hills in 1946, when he crashed a U.S. Army Air Forces XF-11 plane and destroyed the Los Angeles Country Club as well as some homes in the city.
Frank Sinatra was in love with Beverly Hills. The former Rat Pack membe rsettled down in Bevery Hills for over fifty years and had his favorite spots—such as La Dolce Vita restaurant.
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The Dean Martin Show was famous for its off-the-wall humor and the hoards of celebrities who attended the show weekly. From 1965 to 1974, Martin welcomed many actors, comedians, and singers as guests on his show.
Actor Kirk Douglas studies a script on his couch at his Beverly Hills home in 1984.
Designer Bijan Pakzad, originally from Tehran, Iran, arrived in Los Angeles at age 33 and opened a fashion boutique for men on Rodeo Drive. His fame quickly followed thanks in part to the store's "by appointment only" sign, which provided a more intimate, exclusive, and unique shoping experience.
Actor Bruce Willis purchased his $4.6 million Beverly Hills mansion in September 2000. The home features seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a guest home, tennis courts, and a swimming pool .
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Movie stars Brad Pitt and Matt Damon attend the Annual Publicists Awards at the Beverly Hills Hilton in 2002 to present the Motion Picture Showman of the Year award to Jerry Weintraub.
The Dawnridge Estate was designed by artist and home designer Tony Duquette in 1949. Taken in 2012, the image shows a dinner dance from the Fellini Ball, which was organized to donate money to save Venice.
The rooftop pool at the Montage Beverly Hills Hotel is one of the many examples of the city's luxury and hospitality.
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A signature of Beverly Hills, the sunshine and palm trees add to the city's iconic image and desirable charm.
In the Spirit of Beverly Hills: 100th Anniversary Edition, Assouline, $45, available November.
