Debutante balls are formal events where young people are introduced into society. They are associated with wealthy and influential families and are held in various countries including the USA, England, Ireland, and Australia. In Australia, it is often part of the high school system and is optional. In Ireland, it is similar to high school dances, while in England, it has a history of requiring certain garments and seeking a husband. In the USA, it is sometimes called a cotillion and can be quite elite and formal.
A debutante ball is an event where a young woman, or in some cultures, a young man, is formally inducted into society. In many societies, such a ball is associated with wealthy and socially influential families. The USA, England, Ireland and Australia all have variations on this event.
In Australia, a debutante ball is often part of the high school system. It is usually optional and only for those male and female students who wish to participate. Both men and women are included because the ball symbolizes the debut of the graduating high school student into the world of young adults. Traditionally, the girl invites the boy to the dance and dinner, speeches and ballroom dancing are all features of the evening.
In Ireland, these dances are often very similar to high school dances in the United States. They are a school function and students go on formal dates or with an informal group of friends. Students often travel in limousines for the occasion. Ballroom dancing is often available, but traditionally not considered a compulsory activity.
In England, the history of the debutante ball centers on ceremonies that required the debutante to wear certain garments, such as a dress with a feathered head. Traditionally, English debutantes were introduced by former debutantes, often their mothers if they had come out, or a mother-in-law introducing her new wife and child. Most often, however, a debutante was a young woman ready to seek a husband. Queen Elizabeth II sanctioned court ceremonies for debutantes and initiated the English practice of more social introductions in the form of dancing.
In the United States, a debutante ball is also sometimes called a cotillion. American balls can be quite elite and formal, with a receiving line of young women in all-white dresses who take turns being introduced to the stage by their fathers. Debutante also often has a prom date, and sometimes more than one male date. Youths may also be dressed in all white or military uniform. Charitable donations can be part of American prom.
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