Which Dress for First Communion?

To start shopping for Communion Dresses right away, click Communion Dresses.
To shop for headpieces, click
Headpieces.

Selecting her dress and accessories can be a wonderful time shopping together - and what could be better than shopping together from the comfort and convenience of home on line?

You'll find an amazing selection of dresses here through The Perfect Pear Children's Special Occasion Clothing Boutiques (Communion Dresses) - far more than you will ever see in the stores! Keep in mind that almost every dress is available in white even if it is shown in another color (not always, but almost).

The first question is - what is your vision of the day?

  • Classic.  This is the most popular type of dress worn for First Communion today.  It is usually Tea Length (mid-calf), white, usually with some sort of sleeve.  The style is simple and elegant with touches of detail to make it very special. Delicate beading is definitely available in classic styles. Fabrics are typically satin, organza or a combination. The emphasis is on displaying the child rather than the dress.
  • Traditional.  This is the "old world" type of Communion dress still very popular today. It is a formal gown length with a bit of the "little bride" look to it.  It is lavish and detailed much more than a Classic style with beading or pearls and sequins.. This dress makes a grand entrance.
  • Modern.  Modern styles are, well, "more modern" ! They can be artsy too. Sleeveless styles are included here (be sure sleeveless is allowed in your Parish if you are considering one).

By all means look through all three categories (Communion Dresses) to see which appeals to you most. Of course, you're not limited in any way by the categories - they're simply to help get you started.

When should you start shopping for her dress for First Communion?  We recommend the following:

  1. Get it on order at least 3-4 weeks + the amount of time it will take to deliver - e.g.  if the dress takes 5 weeks, order 8-9 weeks prior (or earlier). This allows time in case there is an unexpected delay of any sort (that can happen when ordering from any company) and will allow enough time to have the dress altered for a perfect fit without undue stress or worry.
  2. Start shopping right after Christmas.  Why?  The new season's styles are starting to show up then.  Keep in mind that many Communion dresses are cut and sewn once for the season and if your style/size sells out, you're out of luck.  The one who orders first will win in that case.  If your dress is being made up for you, you must allow plenty of time. The Spring season is VERY busy for all dress companies because it's just as popular for Flower Girl dresses as Communion dresses January - May.
  3. If you have a late Communion date - late May or June - still shop early.  Shopping later will limit your choices considerably as styles are depleted or discontinued for the season. Also, headpieces will sell out and no longer be available as the season progresses.
  4. Keep in mind that rush orders often cannot be accommodated during the busiest child's dress season of the year. Order early and avoid disappointment and frustration (and extra expenses for rushing!).

Select her accessories - especially her headpiece - at the same time you are selecting her dress. This assures that you won't accidentally leave it until the last minute and then find that you cannot get what you want in time (it happens every year to a few unfortunate ones). In most cases we will make suggestions right with the dress for styles best suited to go with the dress but again, don't let that limit your imagination!  If you have a question or need a recommendation, let us know and include the child's hair style, hair length, how she will wear it that day and the style # of her dress.

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