[Photos by BEN GABBE for Patrick McMullan]

The Metropolitan Opera opened its 2008-09 season last night with a gala performance at Lincoln Center starring Renee Fleming. Costumes for Fleming were custom made by legendary designers John Galliano, Christian Lacroix, and Karl Lagerfield for Chanel. Guests of the opening night gala included Molly Sims in J. Mendel, Taylor Momsen in a beautiful, strapless, ruffled Marchesa gown, Parker Posey in Zac Posen, Helen Mirren, Deborah Norville, Barbara Walters, Bryant Gumble, Austin Scarlett, Helena Christensen, Martha Stewart, Jane Fonda, Juliana Margulies, Faye Dunaway, Georgina Chapman, and Christine Baranski.

[The 125th Anniversary Of The MET]