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Communion Dress Measurement Advice

1. When buying online, it is important to take a few moments to take the person’s exact measurements.  Having the correct measurements allows you to use the garment sizing charts available on each communion dress, suit, or baptism outfit page to help order the correct size.
2. Please DO NOT simply order the garment size your child normally wears as each formalwear manufacturer is different and sizes will vary from one manufacturer to another.

Use the largest comparable body measurement and order the size that fits for the largest measurement.  In the example below, when comparing your child's measurments to the manufacturer's sizing chart, for the child that has a bust of 27 and a waist of 25, go with the size 10, as the size 8 will be too small for your child. 

How to take dress measurements
 

• Start by using a non-stretching measuring tape.  This will help with sizing accuracy.
• Take measurements OVER any undergarments to be worn.
• Measuring with the shoes she or he will be wearing will help with hem lenghts.
• For the Waist, use the location just above the belly button.  Please see our measuring body graphics below.

Taller Girls
If your child is tall, you may want to consider purchasing a “long” length dress and doing minor hem alterations.

Alterations
It is common for alterations to formalwear garments to be made regardless of whether you buy online or in a retails store.  Always work with a professional and qualified alterations specialist to ensure quality workmanship.

Petticoat vs. Flat Slip
Adding a full petticoat to a dress will shorten the appearance of the dress length anywhere from 3 to 6 inches.  
 
Measurement Diagram

LENGTH DEFINITIONS

• Tea Length will fall approximately at mid-calf 
• Long Length will fall just below or at the ankle.  
• Floor length will be at or just shy of floor.