The Dallas Art Fair is Texas’s answer to Art Basel, with a four-day-long program of art openings, parties, and happenings. Of all the events on the calendar, the Dallas Contemporary museum’s Spring Gala is arguably the most glamorous and played host to a stylish crowd of art lovers this past Friday night. “There’s a really authentic connection between fashion and art in this town,” said Kristen Cole of Forty Five Ten, who cochaired the gala. “We actually dress many of the big art collectors who are here tonight.”

In an elegant Bordeaux red Marni dress and sculptural Rachel Comey jewelry, Cole was one of several well-heeled fashion folk who gathered to celebrate the new exhibitions, including a 25-year retrospective of Self Service. Fashion photographer Mario Sorrenti and his wife, Mary Frey, were among the first to arrive on the scene in his-and-hers tuxedos and their signature nerdy spectacles, followed by artists Richard Phillips and Francesco Clemente whose new show is set to open at the museum in a matter of weeks. “It’s always so fun to come home,” said model Erin Wasson who was fresh off a plane from Los Angeles in a chic Etro pajama suit. “In fact, I’m here so much, people think I still live here!”

Easily the most famous Texan belle at the ball, Erykah Badu made a grand entrance in one of her towering hats (she wore a matching gold disco wig underneath it, naturally), just in time for a charity auction of fashion photography. As guests enjoyed the last spoonfuls of dessert—a delicious raspberry tart—the legendary singer placed the winning bid on an ethereal portrait by Yelena Yemchuk. “I can’t believe Erykah Badu just bought one of my pieces!” said Yemchuk beaming from ear to ear alongside her actor husband, Ebon Moss-Bachrach. “This is my first solo show at a museum and it’s been six years in the making, so this moment really is the icing on the cake.”