“It’s the East Coast Oscars!” quipped Christina Ricci as she arrived at the celebrity-packed Costume Institute opening gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art Monday night.

With such an emphasis on fashion and innovation, the see-and-be-seen event made even those used to the spotlight a bit nervous. “It took me two and a half hours to get ready: You have to allow one hour for the freak out,” said Ricci, who wore a form-fitting Calvin Klein white strapless gown.

Jessica Simpson arrived separately from boyfriend John Mayer, but the singer, dressed in a white- and gold-beaded Roberto Cavalli gown with a plunging neckline, was feeling amorous, shouting, “I love you!” to screaming fans.

Despite dealing with recent drug allegations, Georgia Rule star Lindsay Lohan looked stylish in a floor-length black Bally gown with her blond hair pulled into a loose bun. “I’m a big fan of fashion,” the raspy-voiced actress said. “This is the best place to be.”

Friends Scarlett Johansson and designer Stella McCartney strolled in side-by-side while pals Cameron Diaz and Liv Tyler jumped up and down when they spotted each other at the end of the red carpet.

Although the celebrities descending in droves brought verve to the event, ultimately it was all about the clothes. Fashion-forward Mischa Barton was in love with her off-white strapless gown with black beading designed by Giambattista Valli. “I feel beautiful in it � it’s gorgeous,” she said.

To see what all the stars wore read the article.

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