Crystal Ballroom: The Dazzling Revival of the King Edward 1920s Hot Spot

When I got the invite to attend the unveiling of the Crystal Ballroom at the King Edward Hotel in Toronto, I pretty much shrieked with delight. 1920s attire? Cocktails named after movie stars? A live orchestra? It sounded like all my roaring twenties dreams come true. I’ve been obsessed with the 1920s for as long as I can remember so any chance to pretend like I’m enjoying a soirée in that era, I’m in.

I brought my great-grandmother’s Hudson’s Bay fur stole out of hiding, steamed my $7 gown that I bought at a vintage store in Victoria and dug out my faux-diamond chokers. You could say that I was aiming to shine as brightly as the Crystal Ballroom. It was funny actually – when I got into the elevator at King Edward Hotel, I was the only one dressed up.

“Oh my! You certainly went all out, didn’t you?” said one of the three ladies on the ride up to the ballroom. Me, in my gown and jewels and sky high Tony Bianco heels, had a moment of panic. Oh my god, what if I’m the only one dressed up?! It’s always better to be overdressed than under, so my panic subsided as quickly as it had begun.

The Dazzling Revival of the Crystal Ballroom

To say that the Crystal Ballroom was stunning would be a gross understatement. It was devastatingly marvellous. And strikingly spectacular! Oh, and of course, dazzling.

Girls were walking around serving chocolate bars and freshly shucked oysters! (Not at the same time though. Even I think that’s gross.) And there were waiters coming around with the most delicious treats, while the bar was flowing with Moët to wash it all down. Yes, this certainly was my dream come true. We ate and drank for hours imagining what it would’ve been like to be there in its prime. Mingling with celebrities, politicians and socialites from all over the city. Incredible. Don’t you think?

Anyways, in honour of this fabulous night, here’s a little black & white recap of the Crystal Ballroom at the King Edward Hotel through my eyes. And if you’re wondering who my handsome date is, it’s Stephan from Why I Love Toronto. Check out his Instagram to see the best photo ever that I took of him.