amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, paid tribute to actor James Franco and designer Michael Kors at its second annual Inspiration Gala New York on June 14th at the Museum of Modern Art. Mr. Franco received the Piaget Award of Inspiration for his humanitarian work and contributions to men’s style, while Mr. Kors received the amfAR Award of Courage for his stellar leadership in the fight against AIDS.
Inspiration New York is part of a series of events celebrating men’s style that benefits the Foundation’s innovative AIDS research programs. A partnership between amfAR and Josh Wood Productions, the series also includes events in Paris, São Paulo, and Los Angeles.
The theme for the evening was Black Tie/Hot Metal and celebrated in a fashion show featuring all aspects of men’s style. Alexander McQueen, Alexander Wang, Atelier, Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein Collection, DSquared2, Yves Saint Laurent, Piaget, Michael Kors, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Elie Tahari, Marc Jacobs, Giorgio Armani, Thom Browne, Vivienne Westwood, Hugo Boss, and Kenneth Cole were among the designers who have donated looks for the runway show, which was presented by Wilhelmina Models. In addition to the fashion show, the evening included specially crafted Grey Goose cocktails, dinner, a silent and live auctions, as well as special performances by Liza Minnelli and Jennifer Hudson – The successful event raised $750,000 for the foundation.
Guests had the choice to sip on three Grey Goose signature cocktails: The Classic Martini, Toasty Goose and Pear Vodka Sour.
Honorary chairs for the evening include Hamish Bowles, Thom Browne, Andy Cohen, amfAR Chairman Kenneth Cole, Nicola Formichetti, Cheyenne Jackson and Monte Lapka, Heidi Klum, Courtney Love, Sean Patterson, and Italo Zucchelli.
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