Today's Debut Traditions

Image from: http://quinntheprincess.deviantart.com/

by Marian P.
 
ABOUT A WEEK ago, I was invited to my friend’s debut in a posh condominium in Quezon City. The theme was Lady Gaga and everyone in the clubhouse (around 40 of them) was clad in their black party dress – except me.

The glamorous affair lasted for more than three hours and sporting a smart casual look – cream-laced blazer matched with brown round-neck sleeveless, jeans and white doll shoes with tiny gold beads plus little make-up and accessories – was not gaga (foolish) at all.

The experience of being “different” in the party turns me to think of different traditions being observed in a debut and how they are modified over the years.

Debut (from French word débuter or “to begin”) marks the girl’s entrance to adulthood. It is the time when she is introduced to society in a formal presentation known as her “debut.”

In the early 18^th century England, a young woman at the age of 17 or 18, was launched into society with a formal introduction to the monarch and upper class circle in a grand ball for the purposes of marriage. Its beginning can be traced back when George III held a “May Ball” to raise funds for a maternity hospital named after his wife, Queen Charlotte. The event became the ‘fulcrum’ of social season or major social gatherings between the aristocrats that eventually lead to what we now know as “debut”.

In the Philippines, celebrating debut is very popular among teenage girls who would like to make their “coming out” special. It is highlighted by the grand cotillion dance where the debutante groove in the tune of a waltz music with her escort; the 18 roses symbolizing the 18 men who are close to you or who have made an impact in your life; the 18 candles symbolizing the women in your life who are close to you and who you look up to as a role model; and the 18 treasures symbolizing gift-giving during birthdays. These debut traditions make the celebration worth remembering.

In Western countries such as Latin America, the girl’s transition from childhood to womanhood

is marked by the celebration of Quinceañera or 15^th birthday.

Today’s debut

Nowadays, more and more “18s” are being added to bring a twist or fresh view in these debut traditions. In my friend’s party, they have what others call as the “18 shots” where each of the participants will give their wishes and drink tequila or champagne afterwards. In another friend’s debut was the so-called “18 thousands” where each of the debutante’s aunts or uncles will give her one thousand pesos. Depending on the theme, these gimmicks are simply renaming or modifying the traditional 18s.

Today’s debut is no longer confined to the usual Cinderella-inspired or high-profile ball. Some would opt to have a theme based on one’s favorite TV personality, movie or show – something that reflects their personality. These gimmicks may look interesting or vague for others, but at the end of the day, it is the spirit of the celebration that counts.

A grand debut is every girl’s dream but what makes it special is the gathering of people who are closest to your life who made the time and effort to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime moment with you.

References: http://www.pacificsoundsdj.com/tradition
http://www.debretts.com/social-season/the-traditional-season/history.aspx