Chambelanes describes the male attendants who may accompany a quinceañera in her court.
The word chambelán traditionally refers to a chamberlain or gentleman attendant. In quinceañera usage, chambelanes are usually young men selected by the celebrant to participate in the entrance, formal waltz, photographs, and other planned parts of the reception. They may wear coordinated suits or formal outfits.
A court often combines chambelanes with female attendants called damas. The number of participants, clothing, choreography, and relationship to the celebrant vary considerably. Some families choose relatives and friends, while others use only a single escort or dispense with a court altogether.
Chambelanes should not be confused with padrinos or madrinas. Those Spanish terms generally describe adult sponsors who may help provide items or support for the event. A chambelán is a participant in the visible court, not necessarily a financial sponsor. Modern celebrations may also use English terms such as escorts, attendants, or court members.