The AmfAR Gala Officially Kicks Off Fall 2010 Fashion Week

Last night, celebrities braved the snowstorm for the amfAR New York Gala, co-sponsored by MAC Cosmetics to Kick Off Fall 2010 Fashion Week at Cipriani 42nd Street. Guests included Anna Wintour, Heidi Klum, Zoe Saldana, Fabiola Beracasa, Eliza Dushku, Margherita Missoni, Meryl Streep, Fern Mallis, Cyndi Lauper, Chloe Sevigny, Ashley Olsen, Leigh Lezark...Cheyenne Jackson, Maggie Rizer, Terrence Koh, Iman, Stanley Tucci, Steve Buscemi, Cynthia Nixon, and Juliana Margulies.

The evening started out with a performance by Rufus Wainwright, who, respected musician as he is, basically just served as a warm up for Lady Gaga. Cyndi Lauper introduced Gaga, who appeared on top of a white piano, dressed in all white, daintily holding a teacup. The serene moment didn't last for long though, as Gaga hurled it to the floor and began her song.

The animated performance was followed by a more somber moment, as Vanessa Redgrave accepted an award on behalf of her late-daughter, Natasha Richardson, who was honored for her humanitarian efforts. Meryl Streep, a close friend of Richardson's, sang an Irish song in tribute.

[All images via Getty]