Portia and Scarlett Portia & Scarlett PS27213 Long

Portia and Scarlett PS27213 Black front view long gown with strapless neckline, full ballgown skirt, boned corset bodice and beading, photographed on a model for prom

Portia and Scarlett PS27213 Strapless Sweetheart Satin Corset Ballgown

$ 18,788

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Color :

Black

Size :

Color :

Black

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Portia and Scarlett PS27213 run true to size, and how do I pick the right size for the corset bodice?

The PS27213 generally runs true to size, but because it has a fully boned corset bodice, getting the sizing right matters more than it would with a standard zip-back gown. Here is how to think through it. Start with your measurements — bust, natural waist, and hips — and compare them against Portia and Scarlett's size chart rather than defaulting to your usual dress size. Sizing charts for structured ballgowns are built around these three numbers, and a size 6 in a jersey cocktail dress is not necessarily a size 6 in a boned corset gown. The most important measurement for this particular style is the bust and waist, because the boned bodice does not stretch. If your bust and your waist land in different size ranges, size to whichever measurement is larger and plan to have the other adjusted. The lace-up corset-back closure on the PS27213 gives you roughly one to two inches of adjustment at the waist after you have the dress in hand, which provides a small buffer — but it is not a substitute for getting the size roughly right from the start. If you are between sizes, size up. Taking a corset bodice in is a straightforward alteration for any experienced bridal or formalwear tailor. Letting a boned corset out is more difficult and sometimes not possible without sourcing matching fabric. For height: the PS27213 is cut for a standard height of approximately five feet six to five feet nine. If you are shorter than five feet four, plan for a hem. If you are taller than five feet nine, confirm with us whether the skirt length will be sufficient before ordering — it is an easy question for our team to answer. If you have a petite frame with a smaller bust and a fuller hip, the ballgown silhouette works in your favor — the full skirt balances the proportions naturally and the boned bodice gives the upper body clean definition. If you want a second opinion before placing your order, our team is happy to walk through your measurements with you directly. Text or WhatsApp us and we will respond quickly.

What events and occasions is the Portia and Scarlett PS27213 actually right for?

The PS27213 is a full ballgown with a boned strapless corset bodice, a lace-up back, and a structured satin skirt — so the occasions where it makes sense are ones where that level of formality is appropriate and expected. Prom is the clearest fit. The ballgown silhouette is a classic prom choice, the beaded neckline detail gives it visual interest without being over-the-top, and the three colorways — Black, Champagne, and White — each photograph well under typical event lighting. If you are going to prom and want a dress that reads formal and put-together without being costume-like, this is a strong option. Black-tie events and formal galas are equally appropriate. The clean satin skirt and structured bodice give this dress the weight and presence expected at a black-tie affair. The Black colorway in particular is a natural fit for a formal gala, charity dinner, or awards event. Formal evening events more broadly — a hotel anniversary gala, a corporate formal, a high-end fundraiser — all work. Any venue with a cocktail-or-above dress code where guests will be in long gowns is right for this silhouette. Sweet 16 and debut celebrations are also realistic. The styling is refined without being bridal, which makes it appropriate for a guest or an honoree at a sweet 16 or Filipino debut. The White colorway especially has a clean, celebratory quality that works for debut styling. Wedding guest use is worth considering if the event is a formal or black-tie wedding. The covered back and floor length check the modesty boxes, and the ballgown is not so bridal in its detailing that it competes with a wedding dress — particularly in Black or Champagne. If you are attending a formal wedding as a guest and want something with real presence, this gown can work. Where this dress is not the right call: casual or semi-formal events, outdoor garden parties, and venues where a full ballgown would feel out of scale. It is also not the right fit for quinceañera honorees — the styling is too understated for an OTT quince look. For guests at a quince, it is fine. If your event has an unusual dress code and you are not sure whether this gown is the right call, reach out to us — we are happy to give you a straight answer.

Does the PS27213 have built-in support, and what undergarments do I need?

Yes — the boned corset bodice provides substantial built-in support. The visible boning channels run vertically through the bodice, holding the structure in place and keeping the chest lifted without any need for a bra. Most customers wearing this style do not use any additional undergarment under the bodice. Because it is strapless and the back closes with a lace-up corset, there is no bra style that works well under the bodice — and none is needed. If you want additional coverage or shaping, a low-cut seamless bodysuit or stick-on cups can be used, but neither is necessary. For the skirt: because it is a full ballgown with a satin outer layer, a slip or petticoat is optional. The satin holds its shape on its own. If you prefer to reduce static or add volume to the skirt, a lightweight underskirt can be worn. Avoid anything with heavy layers that would add significant bulk under the skirt. Shaping underwear like Spanx is fine if you prefer it. Opt for seamless, high-waist styles that will not create a visible line under the structured satin. Keep in mind that the boned bodice already provides shaping at the waist and torso, so extensive shapewear is generally not necessary. One practical note: because the back is a lace-up closure, getting into the dress is easiest with a helper. Plan for someone to assist you with the lacing before the event.

Can the PS27213 be hemmed or altered, and what should I tell a tailor?

Yes — this gown can be hemmed and altered, and it is a relatively tailoring-friendly style because of how it is constructed. For length: if you are petite or planning to wear flat shoes, a hem is likely needed. The dress is cut for a standard height of approximately five feet six to five feet nine in heels. Bring the shoes you plan to wear to your fitting so the tailor can set the hem length accurately. For the bodice: the lace-up corset-back closure allows roughly one to two inches of adjustment at the waist without any alteration. If you need a more significant size change at the waist or the bodice needs to be taken in at the sides, a formalwear or bridal tailor can do this. Letting the bodice out is harder — which is why sizing up and taking in is always the recommended approach. Bust adjustments on a boned corset are possible but more involved — they require working around the boning channels. Bring the dress to a tailor who has experience with structured formalwear, not just a general alterations shop. For the skirt: because it is a full ballgown cut in structured satin, hemming the skirt requires working with significant volume. Confirm that your tailor is comfortable with ballgown hems before committing. This is a standard service at most bridal and formalwear tailors. Call or text our Toronto boutique at 416-536-2956 and our stylists will help you find your perfect dress.

Is the PS27213 comfortable to wear and move in for several hours?

The boned corset bodice is structured and firm — that is what keeps the gown in place without straps — so it does feel different from a stretchy or unstructured dress. Most customers describe it as supportive rather than restrictive, but it is worth setting realistic expectations. The lace-up back means you can adjust the fit at the waist. Do not lace it too tightly. Leave enough room to take a full breath and sit comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to be able to slide two fingers under the lacing at the waist when fully dressed. Sitting down is easy in a ballgown silhouette because the full skirt has volume and does not pull or stretch when you sit. Standing from a seated position is also straightforward — the skirt moves with you. Dancing and walking are natural in a full ballgown. The structured satin skirt holds its shape and does not wrap around your legs the way a narrow skirt would. If the skirt is hemmed to the right length for your shoes, you will not be stepping on it. The pocket in the left side seam is a real plus for longer events — you can keep a card, a key, or lip gloss on hand without needing a clutch on the dance floor. For an event of four to six hours, this gown is appropriate and manageable.

How accurate are the PS27213 color photos, and which colorway should I choose?

Color accuracy in dress photography is always approximate, and the PS27213 is no exception. Here is a breakdown of each colorway. Black is the most predictable. What you see in product photos is what you will get — a clean, deep black satin. Lighting can make it read slightly different in photos versus in person, but there are no surprises with black. Champagne is a warm gold-cream tone. In product images it may photograph slightly lighter or more golden depending on the studio lighting used. In person, champagne satin has a warm, luminous quality under event lighting — it tends to photograph well at formal events. This is not a pale blush or a cool ivory; it reads warm and golden. White is a clean, bright white. On camera it can look stark, but in person the structured satin has a softness that keeps it from reading too harsh. This is the most bridal-adjacent of the three colorways. If you are deciding between two colorways and are unsure, think about your skin tone and the venue lighting. Champagne tends to be flattering across a wide range of skin tones. Black is versatile and dramatic. White requires some confidence but makes a strong statement. If you would like to see fabric swatches or have a specific color question before ordering, contact our team and we will do our best to help.

How do I care for, store, and travel with the PS27213?

Structured satin ballgowns require a little care to keep them looking their best. For cleaning: spot clean minor marks as soon as possible with a clean damp cloth and gentle pressure — do not rub. For a full clean after the event, take the dress to a dry cleaner who has experience with structured formalwear or bridal gowns. Mention the boning and the beaded trim so they handle those areas appropriately. For storage: hang the gown on a wide, padded hanger to support the weight of the skirt. If you are storing it for a longer period, use a breathable garment bag — not a plastic bag, which can trap moisture and cause satin to yellow over time. Store it away from direct light and humidity. For travel: if you are flying or driving to your event with the dress, pack it in a garment bag and hang it as soon as you arrive. Minor creases in satin can usually be steamed out gently. Do not use a direct iron on the satin surface — use a steamer or press through a cloth. For the beaded trim: do not submerge it in water or scrub it. Dry cleaning is the safest option for any beaded detail. For the corset lacing: the lacing cords are durable but should be handled carefully. If a cord loosens or frays, replace it before the event — most fabric or notions stores carry matching cord.

What shoes and jewelry work best with the Portia and Scarlett PS27213?

The PS27213 has a beaded and embroidered neckline band, a structured satin skirt, and a strapless sweetheart neckline. The styling goal is to complement the neckline without competing with it. For shoes: a pointed-toe or strappy heeled sandal in a neutral — nude, metallic silver, or metallic gold — keeps the silhouette clean. Because the dress is floor length, the shoes are mostly hidden, so comfort and heel stability are more important than style. A block heel or low kitten heel is a practical choice for long events without sacrificing the look. For jewelry: the beaded neckline does most of the work at the chest, so keep jewelry minimal in that area. A simple drop earring or small stud in gold or crystal reads well without overwhelming the neckline detail. If you want to wear a necklace, keep it short and delicate — or skip it entirely and let the beading do the work. For hair: an updo or pulled-back style shows off the strapless neckline and the beaded trim to best effect. A half-up style works too. Wearing the hair fully down can obscure the neckline, especially on the Black colorway. For a clutch: a small metallic or satin clutch in silver, gold, or a color-matched tone is the standard pairing. Given that the dress has a built-in pocket, you may not need much beyond a card and a phone — so a small envelope clutch or even no bag at all is a realistic option for this style.

Portia and Scarlett PS27213 Strapless Sweetheart Satin Corset Ballgown

About the Dress: Portia and Scarlett PS27213

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Portia and Scarlett · PS27213 Strapless Sweetheart Satin Corset Ballgown

About the Dress: Portia and Scarlett PS27213

Fit & Silhouette

Fabric & Detail

Key Features

Style & Occasion

Your Dress — Delivered in Days, Not Weeks.

WE ACCEPT RETURNS!

ORDER CHANGES & CANCELLATIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Get on the list

Price Match Guarantee

Easy Returns

Worldwide Shipping

Portia and Scarlett PS27213 Strapless Sweetheart Satin Corset Ballgown

Easy
Returns

Worldwide
Shipping