Dorchester Collection calls off Fashion Prize after slew of protests

The Dorchester Collection, the luxury hotel chain owned by the Brunei

Investment agency, has canceled its 2014 Fashion Prize.

The Fashion Prize, which awards an up and coming designer with a cash prize of 25,000 pounds, has been called off following a series of protests against the Dorchester Collection's owner, the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, in response to his introduction of anti-gay sharia law in the country.

A number of established names in the industry, including François-Henri Pinault, CEO of luxury conglomerate Kering, fashion house Yves Saint Laurent and its creative director Hedi Slimane and editor in chief at Vogue, Anna Wintour, have all joined the boycott against Dorchester Collection during Fashion Week.

However, earlier this week a company spokesperson for the Dorchester Collection revealed to WWD that the prize cancellation was “due to other newly creates similar awards,” and the decision for the awards annulment had been made earlier this year. As of yet, the Dorchester Collection's Fashion Prize website and Facebook page do not show any indication that the award has been canceled.

“We are considering options of new initiatives involving supporting young talent from a variety of sectors. As and when a decision is reached an announcement will be made. The Facebook page is a tribute to previous winners and fashion trends,” added the company spokesperson.

The award was first founded four years ago as a prize to reward and nurture emerging talent in the industry. Previously winners of the annual award include Thomas Tait, who was named the winner of LVMH new award for young designers, Huishan Zhang, Anndra Neen and Augustin Teboul.