First Communion Trends for Girls
She has taken her Catechism and has prepared for her First Holy
Communion. This is a big step in her life and a memory you will
cherish forever. She's growing up!
Selecting the right dress and accessories for her First
Communion is an exciting time. While it is definitely not the
most important part of the day (the spiritual rite is by far
more important), what she wears will help her feel just that
much more special and create lovely memories for a life time.
What are the trends today and what should you consider when
shopping? First, be sure to talk with your Catechism Director or
representative from your Parish on their requirements. Some have
none but others are very specific. You will want to follow their
guidelines to the letter and you will want her to feel that she
fits in with her peers.
What are some of the questions to ask?
1. What length dress is most common - or what do they require?
Most prefer not to see 'shortie' dresses any more and opt for
tea length or formal length. Some prefer all dresses to be one
or the other. Be sure to ask.
2. Headpieces - do they all wear veils?
3. Are sleeves required? Some will say 'yes' while sleeveless
dresses are perfectly acceptable in other locations.
4. Accessories - are gloves allowed? Sweaters, jackets, capes?
Then you have to ask yourself and others - what is the style
trend in your area? In all cases, modesty is the key factor.
Many nuns have explained that rigid rules have developed simply
because common sense and good taste had to be dictated. Sad but
true - we've seen it too.
The Dress
Traditionally and in many cultures yet today, the "little bride"
look is desirable. This involves a full satin gown with plenty
of trimming and a frothy veil on her head.
But the trend is away from this in many modern parishes. Today
we're seeing a desire for clean lines and simple styles more in
tea length than formal.
Sleeveless is definitely popular in many locations - again, ask
before you assume that it is acceptable.
Light touches of beading are still very popular but it is not as
standard as it once was.
More modern styles will include lovely dresses with an entirely
different silhouette from the standard ballgown style - styles
like the A-line and empire waisted dresses, which are especially
attractive on plus-sized girls.
Accessories
Gloves are a classic accessory often desired but frequently
discouraged for wearing during the ceremony.
While sweaters or jackets are usually fine, capes are often
discouraged. The whole reasoning behind this is simple - they
cause children to fidget. They don't need to be distracted from
the purpose of the day with accessories that cause them to fuss.
Simplicity makes the day go better.
If you have your heart set on accessories remember that she can
wear anything at all before and after the ceremony and at your
family gathering afterward!
Preserving the Memory
You will, of course, want gorgeous photographs of her day. A
good photographer's portrait is something you will also cherish
forever. Consider having the portrait scheduled before her
Communion day - dresses and headpieces tend become worn and
often stained and you do not want to risk not getting the
perfect shot.
Another thing to consider is something you will cherish beyond
any other - a custom painted portrait.
Unlike portraits of the past requiring grueling hours of sitting
before an artist with an easel, today's modern portrait artists
can paint from your photograph with amazing results!
And you will, of course, want to preserve her dress and
headpiece. This is best done by professionals. Kits are
available to preserve a girl's Communion attire just like a
bridal gown (and cost quite a bit less, too).
We wish you every happiness on your blessed event!