Dorchester Collection launched the 2012 Fashion Prize at Hôtel Plaza Athénée during Paris Fashion Week and entries are now open.
Following two successful contests, the Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize is becoming known as the ‘one to watch’ for the most promisingly emerging fashion designers.
Anndra Neen, the luxury jewellery line by sisters Phoebe and Annette Stephens, won the 2011 Fashion Prize and have taken their brand to the next level with the support and buzz created by the prestigious competition.
Winner of the inaugural 2010 Fashion Prize, Thomas Tait has since been heralded by US Vogue, collaborated with Asos on its young designer initiative Asos Inc and shown his collections at London Fashion Week as part of BFC NEWGEN.
The Dorchester Collection has always been synonymous with style and helping the hotel find the best of the best is a judging panel made up of fashion luminaries and industry insiders. Former judges have included Manolo Blahnik, Giles Deacon, Daphne Guinness, Stephen Jones, Francisco Costa, Giovanna Battaglia, Derek Blasberg and Lauren Santo Domingo.
The 2012 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize will offer a €30,000 reward to an exceptional designer of ready-to-wear or premium accessories, selected by a panel of expert judges.
Each year, the Fashion Prize is hosted by a different Dorchester Collection hotel, beginning with The Dorchester in London and followed last year by The Beverly Hills Hotel. This year’s host, Hôtel Plaza Athénée has an unrivaled fashion heritage, with an enviable address on the Avenue Montaigne and being known as the ‘second home’ of Christian Dior. But who will be the judges? Can we expect Carine Roitfeld, Sonia Rykiel or Emmanuelle Alt to make an appearance?
Application details are available for download at www.dorchestercollection.com and registration will be open until 31 May 2012.
Entrants must be based in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg or Switzerland and have operated their brand for a minimum of two years.