Lindsay Lohan, Sarah Jessica Parker and Janet Jackson helped kick off New York Fashion Week in style on Wednesday (06Feb13) at the glitzy American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) gala.

The trio was joined by the likes of Katharine McPhee, Ashley Greene, John Legend and supermodel Doutzen Kroes at the black tie event, which recognises those who have made "exceptional contributions" in the fight against the deadly disease.

Jackson and supermodel Heidi Klum were honoured at the ceremony for their personal philanthropic efforts, alongside designer Kenneth Cole.

The star guests then took part in an auction at the dinner at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan.

The annual bash, which heralds the start of New York Fashion Week shows, benefits Dame Elizabeth Taylor's AIDS charity foundation.