What to Wear to a Communion: Your Ultimate Style Guide
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So, you've received that special invitation to attend a communion, and now you're faced with the all-important question: What should you wear to a communion?
Fear not, because I'm here to walk you through every detail of what to wear to a communion, ensuring you look stunning and feel confident as you celebrate this cherished occasion. From what not to wear to communion to a comprehensive rundown of communion outfit ideas for guests, mothers, and men, this guide has got you covered. Let's dive into the world of communion fashion!
Navigating Communion Dress Etiquette: What to Avoid
Before we dive into the exciting world of communion outfit ideas, let's start by discussing the no-nos. Whether you're a lady or a gentleman, there are certain fashion choices that are best left for another occasion. Ladies, keep in mind that a communion is a religious event, so modesty and respect are key. Here's what to steer clear of:
1. Dresses with Spaghetti Straps
While these dresses can be cute and flirty, they may not be suitable for a communion. If you absolutely adore a dress with spaghetti straps, don't fret – simply layer it with a cardigan or a blazer to achieve the right balance of elegance and modesty.
2. Mini Dresses
Short hemlines and mini dresses might be perfect for a night out, but they're not the best choice for a communion. Opt for a dress that hits around the knee or below to ensure your outfit is appropriate for the occasion.
3. Tight-Fitting Dresses
Body-hugging dresses are better suited for a night on the town than for a communion. Choose a dress with a more relaxed fit that allows for ease of movement and maintains the respectful tone of the event.
4. Stiletto Heels
While those stiletto heels might make your legs look amazing, they're not the most practical choice for a communion. Opt for closed-toe heels or elegant flats that offer both style and comfort.
5. Super Bright Colors
Vibrant neon shades might be fun for a different setting, but at a communion, you'll want to stick to softer tones. Instead, wear clothing in pastels and floral prints to a communion.
6. Anything Flashy
Avoid wearing sparkly or sequin dresses, or anything that screams "party time!" for a communion.
7. Jumpsuits
Although jumpsuits are super trendy right now and perfect for wedding guests, they are a bit too trendy to wear to a communion.
What to Wear to a Communion for Guests
As a guest, you'll want to wear something modest. Opt for clothing in pastel or earth tones and avoid bright, neon colors.
Below are ideas on what to wear to a communion for guests.
The Classic Dress
The classic dress is an excellent choice for a communion. Knee-length or midi dresses are ideal for the occasion. If you opt for a sleeveless dress, bring a cardigan or wrap to cover your shoulders while in the church.
Skirt and Top Combinations
A skirt and top combination can be a versatile option for a communion. Pair a knee-length skirt with a blouse or sweater for a polished look. When selecting a top, ensure it isn't sheer or too form-fitting, as modesty is key for this type of event. For a neat and put-together appearance, tuck in the top to create a more refined silhouette.
Pantsuits and Jumpsuits
Pantsuits and jumpsuits can be appropriate choices for a communion if selected carefully. Choose tailored, well-fitted options that maintain a respectful and elegant appearance. Avoid styles with overly wide or flowing legs, as these can appear too casual for the occasion. If the neckline of your pantsuit or jumpsuit is low, pair it with a modest blouse underneath to ensure appropriate coverage for the church setting.
What to Not Wear to a Communion (for Men)
Gentlemen, you're not off the hook either! Here's what to avoid when selecting your communion outfit:
1. Shorts
It might be a sunny day, but shorts aren't the way to go for a communion. Opt for a pair of dress pants or chinos to maintain a polished and respectful appearance.
2. Sneakers or Sandals
While sneakers and sandals are undoubtedly comfortable, they may not fit the formal atmosphere of a communion. Opt for closed-toe dress shoes that complete your look with sophistication.
3. Hawaiian Shirts
Hawaiian shirts and Hawaiian attire can be dressy and nice, but keep them at home. Instead, opt to wear a collared shirt (ideally a button up vs. a polo) to a communion as a guest.
Elevating Your Communion Look: Outfit Ideas for Every Guest
Now that we've covered what not to wear, let's explore a variety of outfit ideas suitable for guests, mothers, and men attending a communion.
What to Wear to a Communion as a Guest
As a guest at a communion, your goal is to strike the perfect balance between modesty and style. Here's what you can consider:
1. Modest Dresses with Sleeves
Dresses are always a hit at a communion, and opting for one with sleeves adds a touch of elegance. Look for dresses in soft pastels, floral prints, or gentle shades. These choices will keep you looking respectful while allowing your personality to shine.
2. Dressy Pants with Blouse
If dresses aren't your thing, don't worry – dressy pants paired with a chic blouse can be just as stylish. Stick to a blouse that's not too low-cut or revealing to maintain the overall conservative atmosphere.
3. Midi or Maxi Skirt with Blouse
Another option is to pair a midi or maxi skirt with a dressy blouse. This ensemble offers a classic and timeless look that's perfect for a communion.
Check out these pleated skirt outfits for ideas on what to wear to a communion. Just make sure to wear a sweater over your cami top.
What to Wear to a Communion: For Mothers
For mothers attending a communion, the goal is to exude grace and elegance while feeling comfortable. Here are some outfit ideas to consider:
1. Knee-Length, Midi, or Maxi Dresses
When it comes to length, opt for knee-length, midi, or maxi dresses with sleeves. These choices maintain an air of sophistication while allowing you to move freely and comfortably.
2. Pastels, Neutrals, and Florals
Stick to soft pastel shades, neutrals, or delicate floral patterns. These color palettes align perfectly with the respectful and celebratory tone of the event.
3. Layers (Cardigan, Shawl, Blazer)
If the weather is a bit chilly, consider adding a cardigan or shawl to your ensemble. This not only keeps you warm but also adds an extra touch of style to your outfit. You also never know if it will be chilly inside the church!
4. Skirt and Blouse Combo
Alternatively, pair a pleated skirt or a midi-length skirt with a classic blouse. Closed-toe heels complete this sophisticated look that's perfect for any mother attending a communion.
What to Wear to a Communion (for Men)
Gentlemen, dressing for a communion is all about embracing classic and timeless styles. Here are some outfit ideas for you:
1. Button-Down Shirts
A solid-colored button-down shirt is your best friend. Whether you opt for long sleeves or short sleeves, classic colors like blue, white, salmon, or light pastels are perfect choices.
2. Chinos or Dressy Slacks
Pair your button-down shirt with chinos or dressy slacks. These pants add a polished touch to your outfit and fit the formal nature of the event.
3. Closed-Toe Dress Shoes
Complete your look with closed-toe dress shoes. They add an extra layer of sophistication and complete your communion ensemble.
4. Blazer Magic
While a blazer is optional, it's highly recommended, especially if you're the father of the communion celebrant. A blazer instantly elevates your look, adding an air of refinement to your outfit.
What to Wear to a Communion: Outfit Ideas for Guests & Mothers
A communion happens in a church, so you’ll want to wear an outfit (or a dress) that is on the more conservative side.
Below are ideas on what to wear to a communion.
1. A Lace Midi Dress with Tan Heels
This Loki Dress by Lauren Ralph Lauren is perfect for wearing to a communion. Any lace midi dress in a pastel color with sleeves is perfect communion attire.
2. A Blush Floral Dress with Sleeves and Gold Earrings
Any blush pink dress or floral dress with sleeves is perfect for mothers to wear to a communion. This communion dress comes in plus sizes up to 5X on KIYONNA.
3. A Knee Length Dress with Sleeves and Earrings
A knee length dress with long sleeves is perfect for wearing to a communion. Opt for a dress that is knee length (the one shown above may be too short). A pink dress is perfect for wearing to a communion.
4. Any Floral Maxi Dress with Sleeves
This floral maxi dress comes in sizes 10 up to 6XL and is perfect communion attire for women.
5. A Cute Floral Dress with Puff Sleeves
View Dress on Abercrombie & Fitch
Any floral dress with puff sleeves is perfect for wearing to a communion as a mother, a guest, or an aunt. Plus, this style of dress is super cute and can be worn again!
Where to Shop for Communion Dresses (for Mom and Guests)
Most women wear dresses and closed-toe heels to a communion. But where does one go to buy a modest dress to wear to a communion? Below are my top recommendations for where to shop for a communion dress.
1. Tuckernuck
If you want a classy dress you can wear again and again, check out the floral maxi dresses with sleeves from Tuckernuck.
2. Anthropologie
If you want a cute dress to wear to a communion that is fashionable too, check out the dresses by Anthropologie. Anthropologie has lots of maxi dresses with sleeves that are perfect for wearing to a communion.
3. Amazon
Amazon has so many modest dresses that are perfect for wearing to a communion. Check out the maxi and midi dresses with sleeves by ZEISCA, ANRABESS, and MEROKEETY.
4. Nordstrom
Nordstrom has lots of cute midi dresses with sleeves. Check out the dresses by Maggy London and Eliza J for a dress to wear to a communion for guests or moms.
5. Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway has lots of dresses that are perfect for wearing to a communion.
6. PinkBlush
If you are pregnant and need to buy a dress to wear to a communion, check out the maternity dresses by PinkBlush.
7. R&M Richards
If you are searching for a dress + jacket outfit or a pants suit outfit to wear to a communion, check out the outfits by R&M Richards (also perfect for a mother of the bride outfit!).
8. Kiyonna
If you are looking for a modest plus size dress to wear to a communion, check out the lace dresses by Kiyonna. Kiyonna has lots of formal dresses that hide a tummy as well!
Amazon Dresses to Wear to a Communion
Want to get an affordable dress last minute to wear to a communion? In that case, Amazon is your best friend!
You’ll want to wear a dress that hits right around the knee or below. Any dress that is in a floral print, a pastel color, or in a light shade would be perfect for wearing to a communion. Below are some of my favorite dresses from Amazon to wear to a communion.
1. MEROKEETY Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
This MEROKEEETY puff sleeve midi dress on Amazon is so cute! It's a great length for wearing to a communion and comes in pretty pastel colors too!
2. MEROKEETY Pleated Swiss Dot Maxi Dress
The MEROKEETY Pleated Swiss Dot Maxi Dress is the perfect dress to wear to a communion on Amazon. This dress comes in a dusty blue color (in addition to ream or light pink), has long sleeves, and is stretchy around the waist to fit women of all sizes.
Conclusion: Celebrating in Style
In a nutshell, attending a communion is all about striking the perfect balance between style and respect. Whether you're a guest, a proud mother, or a dapper gentleman, the key is to choose outfits that reflect the solemnity of the occasion while allowing your personal flair to shine through. Modest dresses with sleeves, dressy pants with chic blouses, and classic button-down shirts with chinos are all fantastic choices that ensure you'll look your best while celebrating this important milestone. So go ahead, embrace the spirit of communion and dress to impress!
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