Preparing for her sacrament of First Communion is an exciting time! While her dress is definitely not the most important part of the day, what she wears will help her feel just that much more special and create memories for a life time. Finding the right Communion dress, veil and accessories can either be an exciting time or it can be terribly stressful. Here are some tips to help make it a wonderful experience --

First, be sure to talk with your Catechism Director or representative from your Parish on their requirements for Communion dresses. Some have no rules but others are very specific. Modesty is always the key concern. You will want to follow their guidelines to the letter and you will want her to feel that she fits in with her peers.

Then you have to ask two major questions:

1. What is the style trend in your area?
2. What is her personal style?

The Dress

Today there are two major avenues to take when selecting her First Communion Dress:

(1) The very traditional "little bride" look; or
(2) The classic simple Tea length dress.

The trend in 2007 is away from the traditional and more toward the modern though this will definitely vary by parish, location, and ethnic background. We're seeing a strong preference towards Communion dresses with simple lines in tea length with just enough embellishment to make it look very special. Many feel that this helps focus the emphasis on the child and the meaning of the day instead of her clothing.

Sleeveless Communion dresses are becoming more and more popular in many locations. Take into account when her Communion will take place and the climate of your location. If it will be very cool on her day, you are going to want her to either have sleeves on her dress or add a jacket. Many parishes will still prefer that you opt for a dress with sleeves.

Light touches of beading are desired on Communion dresses more today than ever before! Bead work has become so beautiful and accessible that nearly everyone can find something to their liking. Fine, delicate seed beading, small pearls and delicate crystals are perfect for a First Communion dress. And lace is still very desirable to many though the trend is away from gobs of ruffles and frills.

The ballgown style is still #1. This is the dress fitted in bodice that comes to the natural waistline and has a full skirt attached. There are many variations, of course. A-line and empire styles are now available for First Communion season. These dresses are perfect for several types of girls - especially the tomboy, the frill-hater and the extra-fluffy child.

Accessories

The most common accessory is the headpiece. While a veil is still worn most of the time, trends are definitely developing towards simplicity and in many cases, even hair accessories such as a bow without a veil at all.

Lovely headpieces are available to suit every style and taste. The simple floral wreath is as popular as ever and looks lovely on almost every child regardless of hair style. The tiara has made a major comeback and can be found with pearls, crystals or metallic finishes. Tiaras give her that extra-special feeling and can look good on almost every hair style too. Simple bows on barrete clips are available with a veil attached too. There are as many variations are there are children to wear them.

Other accessories might include gloves and a jacket, cape or shawl. They are desired but frequently discouraged for wearing during the ceremony. While they can add charm, consider that they may also cause her to fidget or be anxious about hanging onto them. Simplicity can help her relax. If you have your heart set on accessories remember that she can wear anything at all before and after the First Communion ceremony and at your family gathering afterward.

When to Shop

It is very important to shop early so you have the widest possible selection. This means that you should start shopping in early January. Styles and sizes in stores get picked over very quickly leaving the late shopper with little or no selection and it is highly likely that the store won't get another shipment of Communion styles until next year.

A major alternative to shopping in brick-and-mortar stores is shopping on line. Your better on-line stores will be able to offer far more selection in both styles and sizes. Keep in mind, though, that to be able to offer you such an extensive range they need to offer them by special order just like a bridal salon where you select the style, size and color and then order it to be made for you. So again, it is best to shop early so the dress and headpiece of your dreams can be ready and delivered in plenty of time for her First Communion Day. You are far more likely to be able to find special sizing options such as Plus size Communion dresses or dresses with optional extra length for tall slim girls on line as well. All too often the parent of the child with special fitting needs turns to the internet as a last resort and finds the dress of her dreams but it is too late to have it made for her. Don't let this happen to you!

About the Author :

Janet Donahue writes this article for the First Communion dress and veil departments of Perfect Occasions Special Occasion and Formal Wear. Picking her First Communion dress, veil and accessories is easy; everything you need for her is available here with an amazing selection of styles, sizes and prices.

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