The Spanish title commonly used for young women attendants in a traditional quinceañera court is damas.
Damas is the plural of dama, meaning “lady.” These attendants form part of the celebrant’s court and may participate in the entrance procession, formal presentation, coordinated dances, photographs, and other parts of the program. Their clothing is often coordinated with the celebrant’s color scheme, although styles vary widely.
A traditional court may also include chambelanes, the male attendants. The size and composition of the court are not universal. Some families use a large court, some choose only a few friends, and others omit the court entirely.
Damas is sometimes confused with madrinas. Madrinas are usually female sponsors or godmothers who help support particular parts of the celebration, whereas damas are attendants. In contemporary celebrations, the court can be organized in more flexible and inclusive ways than older etiquette descriptions suggest.