What Are They Going To Wear?

¿qué se van a poner?

Nothing can be more challenging than selecting your court’s attire and having all of your friends and family agree on your selection. Your best bet is to select your dress fi rst and then later choose your court’s attire. This way you have an idea of the style and can find dresses and tuxedos that complement your vestido. After all, this day is about you!

Start by having your damas take their measurements so that you can have an idea of styles that would be available in their sizes. This mainly pertains to your smallest and largest sizes. Some designers are limited in the sizes they offer, so you may want to take this into consideration when making that final decision. Make sure that you select a style that is most flattering to members of your court and their sizing. Sometimes, certain styles and fabric are not flattering to some shapes.

Secondly, consider your level of formality for your Quince. If you are planning a less formal event, then you may want to consider tea length dresses or even short cocktail dresses. Lots of quinceañeras are opting to go with more practical dresses that their court members can wear again in the future. If you are having a more formal event, then consider longer gowns that may be more formal and appropriate. Stay away from the dresses with long trains or your merengue will be a train wreck! Literally!

When finding a color for your damas’ attire make sure to select a color that is harmonious with your gown. Maybe a dress that has a colored sash and can introduce a new color to your party’s palette. Never try to match your dress exactly with that of your court members. You want to make sure you stand out in the crowd.

If dinero is a problem for some of your amigas, then consider renting your dresses. There are some companies that offer rental dresses for court members and can save your court some cash -sometimes 50% of the cost! Make sure that you provide the rental company with their sizes so that they can tell you what is available for rent. This is a great service and, after all, don’t the chambelanes rent their tuxedos?!? This option can solve lots of problems when it comes to money.

If you just can’t find the style you are looking for, then maybe a seamstress is the way to go! This is a great option if you have sufficient time. I’ve heard nightmare stories on handmade gowns and the biggest problem was time. If you do decide to go this route, then make sure that you have a picture or a sketch drawn of your ideal dresses and that you agree on a set price for the work being done on each dress. Starting off on the right foot is key and your seamstress will thank you for it. Create a timeline so that you can help to ensure that all of your girls go for their fittings on time!

Last on your list are your chambelanes. They should be selected last. They are usually limited in styles and the selection process goes a bit faster with the guys. First is the color. Black, white, ivory and grey. Most of us prefer black, especially if the quinceañera is dressed in white or ivory. Second, choose the style of tuxedo that will look best with your overall theme -longer modern jacket, traditional coat length or tails. I enjoy tail when there is a Cinderella theme involved and I prefer not to see long jackets if my chambelanes are on the shorter side. Third is the vest or cummerbund and its appropriate color.

Bring fabric swatches with you so that you can match the color. If you can’t find the exact color don’t be afraid to go with a basic or neutral like silver. The last part is a breeze… square toed or round toed shoes. Square toes are very 2008, but I would not mind seeing a round toe if you are going with tails for that 1900’s look!

I know it can get overwhelming making so many decisions, but pace yourself and weigh in on your options before you have an OMG moment. If you’re looking for your court’s attire, then you’ve already found your dress and that, to me, is a more difficult decision. Congratulations -you’re almost done! Respira…