Jessica Simpson and ex-husband Nick LacheyJessica Simpson and Nick Lachey had their first public encounter at a club on Friday since their divorce was finalised last month.

Jessica was partying with friend and hairstylist Ken Paves at celebrity favourite Hyde when Nick Lachey walked in with his new girlfriend, and Jessica’s old friend, Vanessa Minnillo.

An onlooker told Perez Hilton: “Nick walked over to Jessica’s table, gave her a hug and said hello to her and Ken Paves.”

“It wasn’t the most comfortable situation, but it was totally civil and everyone was cool and Jessica was nice.”

MTV presenter Vanessa, however, stayed behind at Nick’s table rather than seeing her former friend. Vanessa has also been bumped from presenting her usual show on Wednesday to avoid any awkwardness when Jessica’s video for new single ‘A Public Affair’ is scheduled to debut.