There are many styles of communion dresses to choose from. In fact, the choices may be overwhelming. You’ll want to start by determining if there is a dress code for your daughter’s first communion. You’ll need to be aware of the constraints. There are three basic categories of communion dresses: traditional, classic and modern. This is a nice starting point for you and your daughter to begin to narrow down the options. The traditional first holy communion dress tends to be a more formal gown length dress and is quite lavish in style. Sometimes this style is called “old world” harkening to elaborate attire worn in some European Countries. The classic first communion dress (no surprise) is classic in style, may have delicate beading and pearl work and is usually tea length. It is less elaborate than the traditional style but is still quite elegant. Modern first communion dresses are ideal for girls who dismiss “girly attire” and prefer to always wear pants regardless of the occasion. Discuss the different styles with your daughter and be prepared to work with her personality in selecting the perfect first communion dress. A girl who acts like a tomboy and lives in pants may rebel if you select an over-the-top first communion dress with matching tiara veil. Similarly, a girly girl may desire the most over-the-top traditional first communion dress ever created and feel disappointed in a modern style. Just remember, selecting first communion attire in keeping with your daughter’s personality will allow her to be more comfortable and radiant on her special day. Of course that doesn’t mean that you can’t negotiate a bit with her… Regarding color, first communion dresses are traditionally white. But which white? If your daughter is wearing a dress that is a family heirloom the color may be more of an elegant ivory than a bright white. Similarly, natural silk dresses are more of a diamond white rather than the stark white of synthetic polyester dresses. All of the white variations are appropriate and your daughter will look lovely in her first communion gown. The biggest issue will be to coordinate the dress with the color of the shoes, the veil (if she is wearing one) and other accessories. Select first communion accessories that are in keeping with the tonality of the dress. If the dress is a bright white (which is usually a cool white) then the accessories should also be cool in tone. Similarly, if the dress is a diamond white, ivory or cream, which are warm whites, select off-white accessories. Consider a white floral head wreath if your parish allows it. They are a charming symbol of youthful innocence and will match any first communion dress. January is a good time to start looking for dresses and accessories if the holy first communion is in April or May. You’ll need to start in November if the event is in the early spring such as March. A nice rule of thumb is to order your first communion dress at least 12 weeks before the event. This way you’ll receive the dress a few weeks before the first communion event and have plenty of time to perfect the fit. Dresses are standard sizes but children are not so most special occasion dresses require alterations. Look for a seamstress that offers bridal alterations since they will be more experienced and comfortable working with delicate white silk and hand sewn beaded elements. This is your child’s special day and you might be thinking of hiring a photographer. This is an once-in-a-lifetime event and you’ll probably want a picture or two or three. Trust us when we say that photographing children requires a special mixture of playfulness and professionalism even when the child is 8 years of age. A good photographer captures a moment. A great photographer captures the moment, but also includes your child’s personality and tells a story. You should inquire with your parish about photography and what is permitted. Even if photography is not allowed during the service there will be plenty of opportunities to capture the occasion and create a wonderful first communion memory. | 
