| Irish and Italian communion dresses are intriguing | | | | headpiece, a Celtic cross, or an Irish rosary with a |
| examples of intricate design and detail. They celebrate | | | | claddagh charm. Yet many still prefer to use Irish |
| First Communion and culture in elaborate style. Since | | | | symbols in the entire outfit and accessories. The lovely |
| both groups tend to hold steadfast to their heritage | | | | Irish names of the dress styles further reflect youthful, |
| and their faith, it is easy to understand their emphasis | | | | Irish beauty - Enya and Ester, Meghan and Maralyn. |
| on communion dresses. | | | | |
| Irish Communion Dresses | | | | Italian Communion Dresses |
| Irish shamrocks (with pearls) are often embroidered | | | | Italian communion dresses can be original designs. |
| along the bodice and hem of a full-length matte satin | | | | They can be made from the finest Italian and |
| dress. Indeed, an Irish girl may have an allover | | | | European silk and other beautiful fabrics. Some |
| shamrock-embroidered skirt and bodice. The Irish | | | | dresses, handmade and hand smocked, are imported |
| dress can show a scalloped hemline with embroidery | | | | from Italy. Throughout the years, custom dresses have |
| and sequins. | | | | been the style for Italian girls. A mother would usually |
| Special finishing touches could be a floral trim at the | | | | ask her neighborhood seamstress to create that |
| waist or a sprinkling of pearls as well as satin buttons | | | | special one-of-a-kind communion dress for her |
| and bows. Communion veils might use satin or lace | | | | daughter. |
| headbands and scattered shamrocks or Celtic | | | | Shantung dresses often have Valenciennes lace on |
| crosses. The shamrock signifies an Irish heritage and | | | | the skirt, sleeves, and bodice. Valenciennes lace is a |
| honors the Holy Trinity. | | | | type of bobbin lace with a floral pattern. Due to its |
| The dresses dazzle in multi-layered style and fullness. | | | | extremely intricate, sophisticated design, it requires a |
| Shamrock-embroidered sheer organza panels may | | | | skilled hand to create this lace. |
| top a bridal satin skirt. A layer of tulle underneath the | | | | A flower organza gown can impress with hand |
| dress can add extra fullness. These Irish gowns may | | | | embroidery. A short-sleeve, off-white dress, in silk |
| also have a crinoline under slip. | | | | taffeta will look like a vintage style. Italian organdy |
| A princess drop front waist, slightly rounded neck, and | | | | gowns often have a back sash tie. The dresses use |
| scalloped-edged short sleeves are popular features. | | | | intricate details such as flower embroideries, layering, |
| The dresses may be tea-length or full length. A | | | | and ribbons. Communion veils can be long or shorter |
| tea-length dress with an embroidered satin bodice and | | | | lengths. The accessories always match the elegance |
| tulle skirt is a terrific choice. The gowns are often | | | | of the gowns. |
| fashioned from the very best bridal satin. | | | | These special occasion dresses could suit a girl for |
| The accessories for an Irish First Communion will also | | | | First Communion or for flower girl duties. For maximum |
| follow a Celtic theme. Each delicate item has divine | | | | fullness, the skirts are often lined with layers of tulle |
| details from top to bottom - from pearled anklets to a | | | | and netting. There is always careful attention to detail. |
| shamrock clip headpiece. The claddagh, a Gaelic | | | | The exquisite fabrics and extra special touches set |
| symbol of love and friendship, is also seen on | | | | these dresses apart from the crowd. |
| communion gifts such as necklaces and bracelets. | | | | Irish and Italian communion dresses have a special |
| In recent years, some families have chosen to add just | | | | meaning for the girls and their families. Yet everyone |
| a few Irish touches to First Communion. Instead of | | | | can enjoy the beauty and the magic which happens |
| having a full Irish theme, they may choose a shamrock | | | | when strong traditions meet an even stronger faith. |