The Spanish word for the young women who accompany a quinceañera as attendants is damas.
Damas, meaning “ladies,” are members of the celebrant’s court. They may take part in the formal entrance, posed photographs, ceremonies, and choreographed dances. The quinceañera is typically the central member of the court, with the damas accompanying her in coordinated formal clothing.
The number of damas is not fixed. Some celebrations include several attendants, while others have a single escort, a mixed group, or no court. Clothing and choreography also differ by region and family preference.
Damas should be distinguished from madrinas. Madrinas are female sponsors or benefactors, while damas are attendants. In practice, a family may invite relatives or friends to fill either role, but the Spanish terms refer to different parts of the event.