Celebrities walk the red carpet at amfAR's NY Inspiration Event [Pictures]

Last night at New York's amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research) Inspiration Gala, actor James Franco and designer Michael Kors were honored for their philanthropy. The Inspiration Gala was presented by Reca Group and hosted a slew of celebrity guests, including Heidi Klum, Ke$ha, Jennifer Hudson, Courtney Love and Lass Bass.

Franco was honored with the Piaget Award of Inspiration for his humanitarian work and contributions to men's style; Kors received the amfAR Award of Courage for his leadership in the fight against AIDS.

Larry Boland, President of Piaget North America, stated “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with amfAR, and we are especially proud to honor James Franco, one of Hollywood’s most inspiring actors, with the Piaget Award of Inspiration for his commitment to the fight against AIDS.”

The theme of the event was Black Tie/Hot Metal and not only celebrated Franco and Kors, but also a fashion show featuring men's style.

Amongst the designers who donated looks for the show were 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.

The action packed event included cocktails, dinner, a live auction and performances by Liza Minnelli and Jennifer Hudson.

Inspiration New York is only part of a series of events that benefits the Foundations' innovative AIDS research programs. The series, which includes events in Paris, São Paulo, and Los Angeles is a partnership between amfAR and Josh Wood Productions.

amfAR is dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested nearly $325 million in its programs and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide.