How do I choose the right size when ordering a Communion dress online?

Communion dresses often fit differently than everyday clothing. It is best to measure your child’s chest and waist and compare those measurements to the brand’s size chart rather than choosing by age alone. Local families in Central Pennsylvania may also book an in-person fitting for added confidence.

Are there specific rules for First Holy Communion dress styles?

Most parishes prefer white or ivory dresses that cover the shoulders, such as cap sleeves or longer sleeves. If a sleeveless dress is chosen, matching cardigans or boleros are often acceptable to ensure the outfit is church-appropriate.

What is the price range for Communion dresses at Oxford Hall?

Oxford Hall offers a wide range of Communion dresses to fit different budgets. Many dresses are priced under $100, with select options available in-store starting as low as $20. Higher-end designer styles are also available up to $200.

The Ultimate Guide to First Holy Communion Style

Q: When should I start shopping for a First Communion dress?

The First Communion season typically runs from January through May. We recommend shopping between January and March to ensure the best selection of sizes and enough time for minor alterations or accessory matching.

Posted by Cindy Washburn on Dec 19th 2025

Affordable Elegance with a Celtic Touch

A First Holy Communion is more than a date on the calendar. It is a milestone, a memory, and often the first time your child steps into a tradition that has been honored for generations. For parents, that moment comes with an important question: how do you find First Holy Communion dresses that feel special, traditional, and beautiful, without overspending or settling for something generic?

At Oxford Hall, families have been answering that question for more than 40 years. As a Celtic gift shop and premier Communion boutique, Oxford Hall blends timeless tradition, affordable elegance, and details you simply cannot find at big-box retailers.

Whether you are shopping from across the country or searching for affordable communion dresses for girls near me in Central Pennsylvania, this guide will help you find the perfect look, without stress.

Boutique Quality Without the Boutique Price

Communion Dresses Under $100 Online

One of the biggest misconceptions about First Holy Communion dresses is that quality and affordability cannot coexist. At Oxford Hall, that belief is proven wrong every season.

Our curated collection includes Communion dresses under $100 online, many priced in the $70–$90 range, without sacrificing craftsmanship, fabric quality, or traditional silhouettes. We proudly carry trusted brands such as Lito and Kids Dream, known for their ability to balance modern comfort with classic Communion style.

These gowns feature thoughtful details like lace overlays, satin bodices, and soft tulle skirts, all designed to photograph beautifully and feel comfortable throughout the day.

A Special Note for Boys’ Communion Apparel

Parents shopping for boys often face even fewer affordable options. At Oxford Hall, every piece of boys’ Communion apparel, including suits, shirts, ties, and accessories, is priced under $100, making it one of the most cost-effective destinations for sons preparing for their First Communion.

Creating the Complete Look

Communion Dresses with Matching Veils or Accessories

A Communion outfit is not complete with the dress alone. Veils, shoes, gloves, and jewelry transform a beautiful gown into a finished, heirloom-worthy look.

Oxford Hall is known as a true one-stop shop for Communion dresses with matching veils or accessories. Our inventory includes:

Lauren Marie veils, celebrated for intricate lacework and heirloom-level quality
Sweet Pea & Lilli veils, offering timeless silhouettes with refined detailing
Gloves, shoes, tiaras, and headpieces
Specialized Celtic jewelry, including Claddagh crosses and traditional medals

Because everything is curated in one place, families can confidently build a cohesive look without guessing whether pieces will match.

The Celtic Touch You Cannot Find Anywhere Else

What truly sets Oxford Hall apart is its Irish heritage. Many of our first holy communion dresses feature subtle Celtic elements such as Shamrock embroidery, Irish lace patterns, or design accents inspired by traditional Irish craftsmanship.

This Celtic influence gives families something deeply meaningful and unique, a level of character and symbolism that mass-produced online retailers simply cannot offer. It is tradition, heritage, and faith woven into every detail.

Two Ways to Shop: Online Convenience or a Day to Remember

Shop Online, Nationwide

Families across the country trust Oxford Hall as one of the best places to buy communion dresses online. Our e-commerce store makes it easy to browse sizes, styles, and accessories from the comfort of your home, with reliable shipping and the same boutique-level selection you would find in our store.

Visit Us In Person: The Communion Day Trip

For families in Central Pennsylvania, we offer something truly special. Local customers are invited to book a private fitting and turn Communion shopping into a celebration.

Your visit can include:

A personalized dress fitting
Hands-on accessory pairing
A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
A celebratory lunch or tea at our Tea Corner Café

For many families, this becomes a cherished pre-Communion memory, not just another errand.

Why Families Choose Oxford Hall

Over 40 years serving Communion families
Trusted brands: Sweet Pea & Lilli, Lauren Marie, Lito
Exceptional value with Communion dresses under $100
Unique Celtic designs you will not find elsewhere
Online convenience with a boutique-level experience
A welcoming in-store destination for Central PA families

Ready to Find the Perfect Communion Look?

Browse our full collection of Communion dresses under $100 online and find the perfect fit from the comfort of your home.
[Shop Online Now]

Experience the magic in person. Book a private fitting and make a day of it at our Tea Corner Café.
[Schedule an Appointment]

At Oxford Hall, First Holy Communion style is about more than clothing. It is about honoring tradition, creating memories, and celebrating faith with elegance that feels both timeless and attainable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start shopping for a First Communion dress?

The "Communion Season" typically runs from January through May. We recommend shopping between January and March to ensure the best selection of sizes and to allow ample time for any minor alterations or accessory matching.

How do I choose the right size online?

Communion dresses often run differently than standard play clothes. We provide a detailed size chart for our brands like Lito and Kids Dream. A good rule of thumb is to measure your child’s chest and waist and compare them to the chart rather than going by age alone. If you're local to Central PA, we always recommend booking a fitting to be 100% sure!

Are there specific "rules" for the dress style?

While every parish is different, most traditional First Holy Communions require white or ivory dresses that cover the shoulders (cap sleeves or longer). If you fall in love with a sleeveless dress, don't worry we offer a variety of matching cardigans and boleros to ensure the look is church-appropriate.

What is the price range at Oxford Hall?

We pride ourselves on being accessible to every family. While we carry designer labels up to $200, we have a vast selection of dresses under $100, and even a clearance rack with options starting as low as $20 for in-store shoppers.