In a quinceañera court of honor, the Spanish term damas traditionally identifies the female attendants.
Damas means “ladies” in Spanish and is commonly used for the girls or young women who accompany the celebrant. A court may also include chambelanes, traditionally male attendants or escorts. The court can participate in a formal entrance, choreographed dances, photographs, and other parts of the program.
The size and composition of a court are not fixed worldwide. Families may choose a large court, a small group, mixed-gender attendants, or no formal court at all. Modern celebrations frequently adapt the custom to reflect friendships and family preferences.
Damas should not be confused with madrinas. Madrinas are godmothers or sponsors connected with particular gifts, services, or ceremonial support in some celebrations. The vocabulary can vary by country and family, but damas is the standard term for female members of the traditional court.