活动现场

Microsoft's contribution of 85 Surface tablets helped pave the way for an efficient and fuss-free electronic check-in system; it also served as an eco-friendly nod to reducing paper use. The "Surface" logo was also displayed on the step-and-repeat backdrop.

Cocktail hour in the Oak Room drew a diverse crowd of names from the fashion and arts communities, including guests like Liza Minnelli, Uma Thurman, and Thom Browne. The gala utilized nearly all of the Plaza's famed public spaces, giving attendees the opportunity to rediscover the hotel in the process.

Vodka sponsor Ketel One displayed its product in the cocktail hour in the Oak Room. The brand encouraged guests to interact on social media with a sign displaying its Twitter handle.

More than a dozen Microsoft Surface tablets were utilized during the silent auction, where guests could electronically peruse and view details of items that would otherwise be difficult to illustrate, including full runway outfits and destination vacation packages.

The 54-look, "interpretive camouflage and military tailoring"-themed runway show for approximately 450 guests took place in the 4,680-square-foot Terrace Room on the main level. Produced by Josh Wood Productions, part of the Plaza's appeal was the juxtaposition of the baroque architecture and gilded details with the modern designs by some of the world's most fashion-forward designers.

With assignments programmed into the Microsoft Surface tablets, guests could easily get their dinner table numbers. In keeping with the night's theme, a camouflage graphic was displayed on the home screen of each tablet.

Staffers were specially trained to operate the Microsoft Surface tablets, and each table featured the new technology in which guests could peruse the auction items, learn more about the evening's honorees and the Amfar Inspiration Gala, and take photos to upload to social media platforms. "Our objective was to add value and enhance the guest experience with technology throughout the evening," said Ed Chase, Microsoft's group marketing manager.

Floral designer Raúl Ávila, perhaps best known for his work on the Met's annual Costume Institute Gala, came onboard for the first time, creating simple but bountiful peony centerpieces in different hues that sat on each of the 43 dinner tables.

Carrying through the evening's military-camouflage theme, Bentley Meeker projected an abstract camouflage motif on the ceiling of the Plaza's gilded grand ballroom, which was bathed in amber light. Projection screens erected in each corner of the room ensured an unobstructed view for all guests.

Catered by the Plaza's in-house food and beverage teams, the event's menu included beet ravioli with Westfield Farm goat cheese (pictured), pickled greens and mezze arugula, roast lemon chicken with rapini and leek and spring pea risotto, and, for dessert, a red velvet crunch cake bar and roasted plums.