amfAR Gala 2012: Janelle Monae, Jennifer Hudson And Joan Smalls Step Out In Style

PHOTOS: A New Look For Janelle Monae?
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The annual amFar Gala to raise money for AIDS research, prevention and education took place last night in New York City. Tons of stars attended to show their support for the amazing cause and party the night away.

The evening's entertainment came courtesy of "Lettin' Go" singer Janelle Monae. And we were pleasantly surprised to see that the musician's usual severely buttoned-up look got a fresh make-under.

Although Monae didn't deviate from her signature black and white palette (or pompadour 'do), it was nice to see her loosen up. The plunging neckline (hello cleavage) and flowy wide-leg trousers showed Monae has a softer and sexier side.

But the moment was short lived--she changed back into her old-faithful ensemble before she hit the stage to perform.

Jennifer Hudson was also on hand for the event. She wore a beaded gown by Roberto Cavalli and debuted a new hairdo. Her long wavy locks looked more appropriate for a party poolside in Miami, but she pulled it off pretty well.

We were also wowed by Jessica white. The model completely redeemed herself from that unfortunate lace jumpsuit she wore to Jay-Z's benefit concert earlier this week. The high-low red gown and gold turban were showstoppers.

The other fashionistas in attendance-- Liya Kebede and Rachel Roy were also stylishly spot on, per usual.

Take a look at all the fabulous fashion moments below.

Janelle Monae(01 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Janelle Monae attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week - Arrivals(02 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Janelle Monae attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Jessica White(03 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Jessica White attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Jessica White(04 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Jessica White attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week - Arrivals(05 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Jennifer Hudson attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Joan Smalls(06 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Model Joan Smalls attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Rahcel Roy(07 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Rachel Roy attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Liya Kebede (08 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Liya Kebede attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)
Leila Lopes(09 of09)
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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes attends the amfAR New York Gala To Kick Off Fall 2012 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on February 8, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images) (credit:Getty)

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