In a quinceañera, the female attendants in the court of honor are commonly called damas.
Damas is the Spanish plural of dama, meaning “ladies.” These attendants traditionally accompany the quinceañera during formal entrances, photographs, choreographed dances, and other ceremonial moments. Their clothing may coordinate with the celebrant’s dress or with the outfits worn by the male attendants.
The court of honor is often mixed, with damas and male attendants appearing together. The number of participants is flexible: some celebrations use a large court, while others have only a few attendants or no formal court at all. Regional customs and family preferences determine the arrangement.
Damas should not be confused with madrinas. Madrinas are female sponsors or benefactors, whereas damas are members of the ceremonial court. Contemporary quinceañeras may also use gender-inclusive or less formal court arrangements.