A ball gown traditionally gives the quinceañera a formal, princess-like appearance.
The honoree often wears an elaborate dress for the ceremony and reception. Such gowns may have a full skirt, decorative fabric, embroidery, beading, or a matching accessory. The style is formal rather than everyday clothing and helps distinguish the quinceañera from her guests.
Color choices are not fixed. Pink and other pastel shades are associated with some celebrations, but families also choose white, blue, red, gold, or many other colors. A dress does not have to be any particular color to be a quinceañera gown.
The ball gown is a clothing tradition, not a requirement. Contemporary celebrations may use simpler dresses, themed outfits, or modern formalwear while preserving other elements of the rite.