The Spanish term damas describes the girls or young women who serve as attendants in a quinceañera’s court. The word means “ladies,” and the group commonly appears with the honoree during formal parts of the celebration.
A quinceañera’s court may include damas alongside male attendants called chambelanes. They can participate in the entrance, coordinated photographs, choreographed vals, and other parts of the program. Their clothing may be coordinated with one another and with the honoree’s outfit.
The size and composition of the court are not fixed worldwide. Families may choose a large traditional court, a smaller group, mixed-gender friends, or no court at all. Local customs and the family’s plans determine what is appropriate.
Damas is sometimes confused with madrinas. Madrinas are usually female sponsors or adult helpers associated with particular responsibilities, while damas are attendants in the ceremonial court. The roles can overlap socially but are not the same title.