Quinceaneras: Modern Takes on Tradition

While the Quinceanera is firmly rooted in traditions going back hundreds of years, the modern Quince can be quite different from even those of a generation ago. Here's how today's Quince girls are putting a new twist on their celebrations.

Color, Color, and More Color
Though the occasional pastel pink or peach has made its way into Quinceanera color schemes for years, recently there has been an explosion of other colors. "These days the Quinceaneras are using more and more fashionable colors for their dresses and their court," says Angel Diaz, a Miami-based Quinceanera choreographer and party planner. Color is also making its presence known at the party, with brighter and bolder hued linens, flowers, and more.

Costume Changes
Quinceanera dresses are also changing with the times -- slimmer silhouettes and colorful fabrics are becoming more common. Some Quince girls are eschewing the big white dress entirely in favor of a frock more fitting with their personal style. Even girls who do wear a white gown for the mass may change later, particularly if they choose to do a modern dance performance. And it's not entirely uncommon for the whole court to come out in new outfits after the vals (or waltz) to do another dance.

Candle Lighting
While the Quinceanera mass itself has remained the same, other more formal elements like the candle lighting ceremony at the party have changed a bit. Rather than having each individual give a blessing as they step forward to light a candle, some quinces are opting to have candles already lit. Friends and family members are called forward to blow out their candle while making a wish (to themselves, rather than aloud) for the Quince girl.

The Changing Court
While most Quinceaneras still choose to have a court of fourteen (seven damas and seven chambalanes), some girls opt to have fewer couples. Why? "To get boys participating in Quinces is harder than the girls," Diaz says, so to keep the sides even girls may have to scale back their plans. Some Quinceaneras opt for a smaller court just to make it a special experience for their closest friends.

Bigger is Better
The Quinceanera guest list seems to be ever-expanding, as girls want all of their nearest and dearest to celebrate with them at the party. Though Quinceanera cruises are popular in some parts of the country, many Quince girls prefer to stay on land so all of their friends can attend the party.

Dance, Dance Revolution
Some of the biggest changes in Quinceaneras have to do with the vals. "We keep insisting that a Waltz is at least among the dances," Diaz says. "Many girls are not happy with the idea of having a waltz, but it is tradition." Rather than going strictly by the book, lots of quince girls are including more modern music and dancing in the Quince celebration. "We see a huge demand for new and modern dances," Diaz notes. "Some girls want to perform a solo number, like a belly dance, others want to perform a salsa with their friends. Why not? It is her party after all, and she is the princess for that night."

 

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