Caserta boldly called her new Haight-Ashbury shop Mnasidika after a character in the iconic Sappho-inspired poetry collection The Songs of Bilitis. This was a significant act of defiance, as she was already living openly as a lesbian during a time when such openness was rare, even in the liberal Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Her choice of name reflected her commitment to expressing her identity and embracing her sexuality while pioneering in fashion.
Caserta's encounter with Janis Joplin marked the beginning of a fast friendship. Caserta described the first time she saw Joplin perform as 'powerful and mind altering.' This led to a unique bond where Caserta would not only dress Joplin but also delve deeper into a shared lifestyle that blended the essence of 60s rock culture and personal freedom, which they both embodied.
The birth of bell-bottom jeans in Caserta's boutique came from her observation of an early hippie who creatively modified a pair of jeans. This idea was pivotal, and she took it to Levi Strauss, striking a deal that would solidify her influence in the fashion world. Her capacity to blend creativity with entrepreneurship played a significant role in shaping the style of the era.
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