It’s a technique that we, especially those that promote involvement as a rite of passage, are. So it should n’t be surprising that two well-known coming-of-age traditions are closely associated with Southern culture: cotillions and debutante balls.
Just the mention of either causes flashes of white gloves and tango in our minds. Although these two activities are distinct events with specific roots and purposes, they share many similarities. In case you need a refresher, how’s what sets them apart.
What Is A Cotillion?
Cotillion is usually a period of middle-school-aged children’s etiquette lessons that culminate with a last dinner party where they get to display off what they’ve learned. Cotillion was first used to describe a group dance in the 18th century in France and England, which was regarded as the forbearer of the square dance ( à la the dancing in Pride and Prejudice ). This particular dance was deemed a great ball’s finale, and it seems to be also used today.
are rightly also common in the South; they’re a great way for kids to learn all those ways, which we highly value alongside their friends and classmates. The skills learned in cotillion courses may be useful throughout the child’s life, whether they are learning to shake hands with a firm handshake or dancing the dance. At the conclusion of the celebration, which is frequently known as the cotillion ball, happy parents and teachers gather to watch the participants demonstrate their dance moves, conversation etiquette, and etiquette.
What Is A Debutante Ball?
A socialite ball features the “debut” of young women from age 16 to 21 as established members of society. Once considered to be a family’s statement that their child was of good breeding and marriageable time, now, the balls—although also steeped in history and rituals—are more about fostering group, supporting charity, and appreciating the development of teenagers into young adults.
Presented by their parents and escorted by one or two younger girls of their choosing, young people make their “debut” to world. Debutante parties take place all over the country ( and even around the globe ), but there is something decidedly Southern about them.
Age Variations
While cotillions are more focused on teaching young people, typically between the ages of 11 and 13, how to be courteous citizens, socialite balls represent the official adolescence of society for those younger people. The middle-school-aged exercise is a prelude to a starlet basketball, which is the opportunity to actually become members of society, usually for ages 16 to 21.
Attire Distinctions
Participants should dress in proper attire for the cotillion ball, including longer gowns for ladies and formal suits or tuxedos for gentlemen. Ladies should have comfortable, appropriate clothing for the event. Moreover, ladies are usually instructed not to use white or white to the cotillion ball, which is different from the, where debutantes are frequently instructed to use pure-white proper full-length ball gowns with much white gloves.