Quinceañera Gowns & Damas Dresses to dazzle

It's a tradition in the Hispanic or Spanish-speaking community that teenage girls celebrate their 15th birthday with an celebration called Quinceanera (also known as Quince Anos, meaning fifteen years).

Latin communities in South America, Mexico, Puerto Rico and other nations celebrate the coming of age of their daughters with a Quinceanos in the way most western society celebrates a wedding. 

There's lot of tradition, fun and partying - and it's your chance to be "princess for a day"!

Across the United States the Quinceañera celebration is becoming common almost everywhere - with different communities having varying traditions.

The Damas & Chambelanes Court

How to Celebrate your Quinceanera - The Perfect Gown

 

Starting to shop early is key - if you don't want to buy off the peg, having your dress custom-made will take time , possibly several months.

That said, there are some beautiful designs available in a wide range of styles and colors - so there's sure to be something that you'll love.

Strong colours and bold designs seem to be popular - from shades of emerald green, browns, blues and pinks - to sequined gowns plumped out with tulle.

The choice may feel overwhelming, but you'll just know when you've tried on the perfect gown for you.

The Traditional Celebrations

To celebrate you achieving your fifteen birthday , there's usually a church ceremony, with family and friends.

Traditions include much symbolism, such as:-

• the giving of a tiara and scepter for
• a bracelet to represent the unending circle of life
• a cross and prayer book to remind her of her faith in God
• the handing over of the "last doll" to a younger family member, to symbolise leaving childhood behind
• the changing of the shoes - where the young girl has her flat shoes changed by her father or male relative into the high heeled shoes of a woman

At the party you may dance traditional Mexican and Spanish dances like the salsa, or more contemporary music, the choice is yours.

There is often a toast to the birthday girl at the party and no party would be complete without the cutting of a massive birthday cake.

These are only a few of the traditions, which vary between families and countries. To find out how the Quinceanera is celebrated differently across the world and for further information on local traditions, check out Wikipedia.

Recommended Resources

Budget Centrepiece Ideas - tips on how to cut back on costs for your Quince

Plus Size Wedding Gowns - beautiful wedding day designs for both bride and bridesmaids

Prom & Damas Dresses - pretty styles for your attendants and court