Aldi unveils low-cost communion dresses

Aldi are the latest of the chains venturing into the communion market with €25 dresses that make the occasion more budget-friendly.

Dresses from Marks & Spencer, Dunnes Stores, and Debenhams have become hugely popular in recent years as families try to rein in spending on a day that can cost up to €700.

Research from Ulster Bank last year showed that families spend in the region of €713 on their child’s communion and up to €163 on the dress.

The buying team at Aldi describe their new range of dresses as “elegantly designed” and made from “quality fabrics with every attention to detail”.

“Celebrating First Communion is a rite of passage that can be an expensive time for families in Ireland, with everything from outfits to food and entertainment to cater for.

“At Aldi, we’re really excited about offering our customers the opportunity to make huge savings with our €24.99 communion dresses.

“Our Irish buying team has worked hard to source elegantly designed dresses from quality fabrics with every attention to detail. We guarantee our communion dresses won’t be beaten on price and provide the best value in Ireland for parents this year,” said Rob Farrell, Aldi Ireland’s group buying director.

The dresses came in two designs — the first features a satin bodice and a sequined skirt, while the second has a satin-bodice with two layers of organza over a satin skirt.

The range also includes accessories such as €9.99 shrugs, available in plain or pearl, a handbag and glove set again at €9.99, and two head dresses.

The best thing about Aldi selling Communion dresses is the child's da won't mind going to buy it with her when he's getting new drill bits

— Anne Marie O'Connor (@Kitsgirl1) February 27, 2014

The range, which is available in limited quantities, goes on sale on Sunday, March 16, and the store recommends getting there early if you want to bag the bargains.