How to choose your communion dress

I have been designing and making communion dresses in Glasgow for 25 years in Katie Scarlett Designs. Here are my thoughts on choosing a communion dress for your big day.

There is no denying the fact that the First Communion is a special day in the lives of every young girl. This occasion is a milestone that will be etched in their memories and remembered for the rest of their lives. To make this particular day even more memorable, the First communion dress you choose for your daughter plays a crucial role in it.

First of all, DO NOT wait until the last minute! Since most Communions are in April and May, the Communion shopping season starts in early January, and goes through April. However, waiting is the biggest mistake that I see most people make.

Getting started early in the Communion season January and February is highly recommended, this will ensure not only the availability but you will have plenty of time to have any necessary alterations done before the Communion date without having to stress about getting the dress ready in time.

What should girls wear for their First Communion?

Usually, the church performing the First Communion will have a standard dress code for all communicants to follow. On average, girls wear a modest dress to their First Communion that covers the arms, legs, and head, in accordance with the church they attend. Traditionally the dress is white; depending on your church ivory can be worn as well. More girls are wearing modern dresses that don’t cover arms, they usually wear a bolero when they’re in the church and take off for all the other festivities

White is a symbol of purity, and can be simple or include more intricacies like beading, lace, embroidery, ruffles, swoop train, and bateau dress line depending on the preferences of the girl, her parents, the church, and what the church recommends.

For me choosing a made to measure dress over an off the rack dress has lots of advantages, although I would say that as a designer dress maker would’nt I 😀

Why choose a made to measure communion dress?

The most important one, no one will have the same dress on! Most dressmakers (including me) will only allow one of each style per parish.

You can add, take away, change the sleeve, adjust the desired length etc. If the changes are within reason, there is no extra charge, but otherwise, I would give the cost option for exactly what you want.

The dress will fit perfectly so if your daughter is not an average 8 year old, I will get some key measurements. These measurements will be compared to standard patterns and then adjusted accordingly, thus ensuring the perfect fit for that big day.

People who prefer buying off-the-rack clothes know how difficult it can be to find a dress that actually fits. When you find the right cut, you suddenly discover that it’s not your size. When you finally get the right size, you frustratingly realise it’s not your dream colour. This is definitely not the case with a bespoke dress.

When thinking about costs of a bespoke and unique dress it’s good to remember that the cost of a dress goes beyond the amount you see on the prize tag in the boutique. Most of the dresses need some alterations to be done and their cost can often be 25–40% more to the top of the prize tag. In bespoke dresses you don’t need to get alterations done afterwards so the end cost can actually be very similar.

You can decide every detail in your unique communion dress.

The dress will fit perfectly.

No one else will have exact same design.

Infinite possibilities in terms of color and style.

Matching communion dress to personality

The most important thing is for your child to feel happy and comfortable in whatever she’s wearing on the day, so she can focus on the significance and excitement of the event. Although you may find an outfit that you absolutely adore for your little girl, if she’s not happy in it, then it’s not for her.

Some little girls love to feel like a princess in their fairy tale designs, while others will feel much more relaxed in a simple, modest dress. So, opt for a style that is authentic to your little girl’s personality.

Communion dress style

Firstly, check if there are any rules and restrictions on dress styles at the church. For example, some may require you to choose a dress with sleeves, although some churches are less strict on these particular details. One rule that is fairly common with First Communions is a child must have the dress length below the knee. Double checking with your priest is the safest option.

Learn the rules of the parish or priest for dress requirements. Most parish rules require white dresses, short or long sleeve, long dress, white veil or floral headpiece, white dress shoes, white socks, or white stockings. Some parishes allow girls to wear white gloves while other parishes don’t, because children will be receiving the Eucharist by hand. It’s important to know the exact rules for your congregation. You can often find this information published on the church website, or you can visit the church office and ask for the parish communion dress rules. You will want to know these first before contacting me for the dress and any accessories.

Are you planning on sticking with family traditions by going for a conservative style, something on trend and contemporary, or something a little more ‘out there’? Whatever you choose, think about her body shape when deciding. For example, if she is a petite girl, a shorter dress is a good option to prevent her looking very small.

Overall, it’s important that your girl actually likes and feels comfortable. Some girls love to wear dresses, others not so much. So taking her own personal style into consideration will result in you both being happy.

Picking a communion dress style

Communion dresses come in many styles and shapes, so you can find the ideal gown that suits your little girl and feels right for her. These are three common styles;

Modern communion dress

Modern garments are a popular option for many young girls who want to wear a design that’s trending and stylish.

The most common type of gown for this category is the A-line dress, which is fitted at the hip or waist, before progressively widening towards the hem. The A-line style tends to have a slimming effect and can be found with special embellishments, such as beading or embroidery.

Sleeveless dresses also fall under the modern category and are often matched with jackets, shawls or boleros. If you’re considering a sleeveless design however, make sure you check the requirements for the individual parish, as different rules and requirements stand for various areas.

Classic communion dress

Classic communion dresses are considered the most popular style today, creating elegance through its simplistic design. It’s ideal for creating humble beauty, whilst letting the emphasis fall on the celebration of the day.

Tea length gowns are a common classic design. They tend to be fitted at the top and wider at the bottom, with sleeves and a hemline that finishes mid-calf.

Traditional communion dress

Traditional designs will stand out from the crowd, whilst simultaneously coinciding with the requirements of many cultures. For example, the traditional style matches the ‘little bride’ look acting as a symbolism of purity.

White Organza Tulle communion dress

Tulle, commonly used for veils and gowns, makes fabulous first communion dresses. The softness and elegance of a white organza tulle dress will make your child look like an angel. You may choose a dress with some rhinestone work on the waistline with an organza bow on the waist.

White Beaded Illusion communion dress

With delicate and fine craftsmanship, beaded dresses are another brilliant piece of apparel for girls’ first communion. For classic beauty, choose one that comes with a crinoline netting underneath that will give a puffed-up effect — more like a fairy tale princess. Your daughter will love it. Some dresses come with smocked features on the waistline, and the skirts have minimal beaded illusion for more of a glittery effect. Should you want to have a sparkly yet plain look, these dresses are perfect. You can choose one that comes with a long sleeve or sheer short sleeve. Either way, the dress is an instant hit.

White Tiered Tulle communion dress

Tulle never goes out of fashion. Team it up with a design that incorporates a tiered effect to the dress. Simple yet elegant, these dresses are adorned with minimal dazzle and sparkle and have the tired tulle do its job by making the dress look so unique and trendy at the same time. The modern touch of this girl first communion dress doesn’t spoil the ceremony’s serenity, and you can safely choose one for your daughter.

Short-Sleeved Lace White communion dress

A laced top and flocked tulle skirt white dress is another addition to the beautiful first communion dress list. These dresses are available with ruffle netting on the skirt to give it a richer look. Think of lace on the bodice, with lacework on the neckline and sleeve. Short laced sleeves add more elegance to the overall look of the dress. If your daughter wants it to be fuller, like a fairy queen, add a petticoat to bring the attire’s fullness. To make the look more gorgeous, pick a dress with an adorned sash or brooch on the waistline.

White Embroidered communion dress with Bolero

If embroidered pieces are something you adore, there is a vast collection of embroidered white dresses. A beautifully embroidered bodice and trimmed lace skirt is a lovely piece to look at and wear. Your daughter will look like a princess. To add more glam to her look and still keep it minimal, go for a dress with satin ribbon at the waist. You can add a bolero if you want, however, she cannot wear it during the ceremony.

Embroidered White Quarter Sleeve communion dress

Classic embroidered taffeta white dress is one beautiful piece to try out on her first communion. This dress has ruffle netting on the skirt and rhinestone and pearl beads all over. It comes with an embroidered quarter sleeve. Create some elegant spark with an adorned waist. You can also choose one with pearl beads or crystals for the sash on the waistline.

Sleeveless Satin First Communion Dress with Shawl

Gorgeous sleeveless girls first communion dress made of satin brings in the luxury and exquisite selection of attire for the ceremony. Satin dresses are soft and have that smooth gloss to them, making the dress gorgeous and ideal for the Holy Communion. These dresses are available in tea-length, A-line, or floor length. Some also come with an extending tail.

With a pretty embellishment of beads on the neckline, waist, and hem area, the dress is amazingly stunning. Discover wide varieties of satin dresses with a satin sash to be tied on the back of the dress. With added crinoline for more fullness if that’s what your daughter prefers. The dress has a satin shawl with beaded work done to carry or wrap around for a sophisticated look.

Colour of the communion dress

Typically, a communion dress is worn in white or ivory, with white being the most preferred colour by the majority of Catholic churches as this represents purity. Although, check with the church first to see if they will allow different shades of white or ivory. When looking at colours, don’t forget to think about her complexion too.

Check out some of my creations for some inspiration. Good luck.