A traditional quinceañera court commonly includes fourteen female attendants, called damas.
The number fourteen is linked symbolically to the honoree’s fifteen years: the quinceañera is the fifteenth member of the ceremonial group. In a traditional court, the damas may be paired with fourteen male attendants, often called chambelanes. Together they can participate in the entrance, formal photographs, and choreographed dances.
This arrangement is a convention rather than a rule. Families may choose a smaller court, an all-female or mixed-gender group, or no court at all. Modern celebrations often adapt the traditional format to reflect friendships, family relationships, budget, venue size, and personal preference.
The word dama means “lady” in Spanish. It describes an attendant, not the birthday honoree. The quinceañera herself is usually distinguished by her dress, entrance, position in the choreography, and role in the ceremony.