At a traditional quinceañera, the honoree is commonly presented with a tiara.
The tiara symbolizes the honoree’s special status during the celebration and is often placed on her head during a formal presentation. It may be given by her parents, godparents, or another close relative, depending on the family’s customs. The accessory is frequently coordinated with the formal dress and jewelry.
A tiara is not required at every quinceañera. Some celebrants wear a small crown, jeweled headband, flowers, or no special headpiece at all. “Tiara” is the conventional English name for the delicate, ornamental headpiece most associated with the tradition.
The tiara presentation is one of several symbolic moments that can accompany the entrance or formal recognition of the honoree. It should not be confused with the shoe-change ceremony, which represents a different transition.