Fashion season in Europe is just around the corner. What better way to celebrate the new collections than toasting with titillating tipples? Inspired by the five dynamite designers who have been shortlisted for the 2011 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize, The Dorchester Collection is rolling out a special cocktail menu from September 15- October 5, 2011. Whether relaxing at the end-of-day with an aperitif or letting loose with the fashionista crowd in the wee hours, these drinks are guaranteed to do the trick. Available exclusively at Dorchester Collection’s hotels in the leading fashion capitals: 45 Park Lane and The Dorchester in London, Hotel Principe di Savoia in Milan, and Le Meurice and Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris.
The hotels’ legendary bar managers concocted these creative cocktails. Thierry Hernandez of Hôtel Plaza Athénée dreamed up the “Anndra Neen Ruby,” a red mescal-based drink inspired by the Mexican heritage of Anndra Neen's Phoebe and Annette Stephens. William Oliveri of Le Meurice (who used to hang out with Dali) conceived “Starry Sky,” a Bacardi rum-based cocktail, after viewing Setareh Mohtarez’s “Brightness Dawn” collection. Julian Louie and Giuliano Morandin of The Dorchester, mixed “JL” with Belvedere Vodka and Canton Ginger Liqueur. Siki Im and Stefano Cossio of 45 Park Lane created the “Silent Thunderbird,” a libation featuring Maker’s Mark Bourbon and a shot of espresso. Sofia Sizzi of Giulietta and Daniele Confalonieri of Principe di Savoia in Milan created “Elisir di Giulietta,” a Santa Maria Novella elixir cocktail, inspired by Giulietta’s feminine and sophisticated style as well as her Florentine roots.
The winner of the Fashion Prize will be announced this autumn. We can’t wait to see who will snag the prize: US $40,000 to develop their brand, in addition to the opportunity to display their work during Paris Fashion Week in 2012 at Hôtel Plaza Athénée.