The transition from childhood to womanhood is an important event in almost any culture. Hispanics, however, mark this memorable occasion with the celebration of a Quinceanera or Sweet 15. The Quinceanera tradition is believed to have started many years ago when the Spanish conquerors brought the tradition to Mexico and others say the tradition originated with the Aztecs. Regardless, a Quinceanera celebration is a Hispanic tradition associated with Mexican, Central, and South American cultures. Through the different ceremonies that take place today, the young Quinceañera is formally introduced to society and it is a day to give thanks for having reached this age.
The coordination of the entire Quinceañera event is a teamwork effort of family, friends, and relatives. Very strong family ties come into play. It is customary that all these family, friends, and relatives will volunteer to be padrinos or sponsors. Each sponsor takes financial and/or moral responsibility for what they have been assigned including the cake, invitations, doll, bible, rosary, etc.
It is customary that the Quinceañera will wear a ball gown usually with a petticoat or crinoline underneath to make the dress look extra puffy, and a crown or tiara along with her gloves. In the United States, the dress is most commonly of white color, while in other countries such as Mexico it is very common to see the Quinceañera wear a pastel color dress or even red, royal blue, or burgundy.