A debutante is a young woman of aristocratic or upper-class family background who has reached maturity and is presented to society at a formal "debut" or possibly debutante ball. The tradition of debutante balls dates back to at least the 18th century and was originally a way for fathers to marry their daughters off to wealthier men or improve their social status. Today, the tradition has evolved and is often seen as a way for young women to network and gain exposure to high society. Some key features of debutante culture include:
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Debutante Balls: These are formal events where debutantes are presented to society. To gain admission to a debutante ball, debutantes must usually be recommended by a distinguished committee or sponsored by an established member of elite society, typically their mothers or other female relatives. Wearing white gowns and satin or kid long gloves, the debutantes stand in a receiving line and are introduced individually to the audience. After the debutante is announced, she is walked around the stage, guided by an escort, and then dances with her father or another male family member.
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Dress Code: Almost universally, the debutantes dress in white gowns similar to wedding dresses and wear long white gloves. They are generally presented by their fathers and escorted by young men in formal dress. Dancing is a focus of the event, and indeed some young women are expected to have learned to dance gracefully in a specific style or styles prior to the ball.
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Exclusivity: Almost all debutante balls are extremely exclusive, many of them invitation-only. Oftentimes invitations require recommendations from a current member of the hosting organization, usually a woman who was once a debutante herself.
Its worth noting that the tradition of debutante balls has been criticized for perpetuating classism and sexism, and many young women today choose not to participate.
