Select a communion veil that harmonizes with the dress
First communion is right around the corner and catholic mothers, grandmothers and godmothers of second graders are on the lookout for communion dresses, veils and other accessories.
The first thing that you’ll need to know are the dress requirements of the parish. In my experience this information is not provided early enough. For example one private catholic school has the meeting for the parents detailing the dress code mid January even though the first communion ceremony is a few weeks later in March. Rather than wait and then have to frantically run around at the last minute, ask the religious instructor for the general guidelines. Don’t forget to ask about the headpiece and the shoes. Can the children wear a floral headpiece? Can they wear veils? Can the shoes have a heel? What height? Well, you get the picture.
In selecting a headpiece, think about the style of the communion dress and how your daughter will wear her hair. I recommend pulling the hair back which looks more elegant and prevents her from playing with it during the ceremony. Consider a french braid if her hair is long enough or barrettes if her hair is short. Next, you’ll need to evaluate the length of the veil. Short communion veils will fall to the shoulders and are perfect for girls who don’t really want to wear one but are required. Medium length communion veils fall below the shoulders, are the most versatile and will work with classic and modern communion dresses. Finally, long communion veils fall mid way down your daughter’s back and will look lovely with very traditional, very elaborate dresses. Most veils are secured in the hair with a comb that is attached to the headpiece.
Lastly, you’ll need to consider the color of the communion dress when selecting the accessories. The color doesn’t have to match exactly. It simply needs to harmonize. If your daughter’s first communion dress is silk then you’ll want to select a diamond white communion veil. If your daughter is wearing a communion dress that is a family heirloom you might even need to select an ivory veil.
Have your daughter try the veil on before the communion day and practice removing the veil to ensure that her hair stays in place. Finally, plan on bringing a comb and some bobby pins with you to the church just in case…
