The Fermenting Cellar was transported back to the '30s last weekend, as Toronto's most fashionable dressed dirty thirties at the Buy Design Spring Social to raise funds for Windfall, Canada's only new clothing bank.

Guests got to boogie down in front of the bunting-ed bandstand and snack on picnic treats while taking in everyone else's Depression-era duds.

All assembled were actually dressed up in costume, which was a rarity for a dress-up party these days, I find. There was a beautiful range of both actual vintage pieces, and modern dress that would pass nicely in an Edward Steichen portrait. (My own nautical romper/blazer combo was inspired by this photo.)

Perhaps one of the biggest hits was the badminton court set up inside. Fashionistas kicked off their heels in delight and batted the birdie around in an utterly charming display of carefree fun. I loved this sense of playfulness, which is often in short supply at sometimes-dour high-fashion events. All for a $2 "greens fee"! Small price to pay for such good fun, and a great cause.

Photos by Jonathan Loek.