The Role of Men at a Debutante Ball

Men involved in debutante balls should look their best.

Debutante balls traditionally mark the ascent of young women into society. They are a combination of a dinner dance with a formalized presentation of the girls to their peers. Debutante balls appeared in America towards the end of the 19th century; they historically came about through the practice of English women appearing in the royal court from the 18th century onwards. Debutante balls focus on women, but both the girls' fathers and young men play a number of important roles.

Present Debutante

At many debutante balls, girls are accompanied by their fathers. These men play a very formal role and are introduced after their daughters; their profession and title are provided. It's then the job of the fathers to escort their daughters on a stroll around the venue, giving the debutante time to show off to the on-looking crowd. Eventually, the father accompanies his daughter back to the stage or wherever the walk began.

Dancing

Both fathers and the eligible young men present at debutante balls are expected to dance, and again, this activity is usually performed in a formalized manner. When fathers accompany their daughters to the ball, the first dance is often a father-daughter waltz. After this, the debutantes have plenty of opportunity to dance with the young men present, and a variety of music is usually played, including ballroom and modern styles. There are ample opportunities to dance with the debutantes throughout the evening. Etiquette requires a man to cut into a dancing couple; the newcomer does this by politely informing the lady's existing partner of his intention of dancing, then waiting for the existing partner's consent.

Historically in England

The role of young men at a debutante ball has changed somewhat since the historical origins of such events, in that while modern men might use the opportunity to get to know the debutantes, they aren't looking for a partner for the prospect of marriage. In England in the 18th to the mid-20th century, girls from well-bred families were presented at court with the hope of them meeting an eligible bachelor and thus securing a marriage.

Companion Duties

Young men also sometimes serve as companions for girls at debutante balls. In some cases, the young man escorts the debutante as she enters the venue, while at other events, he will accompany her as she leaves. Some debutante balls feature presentation or religious ceremonies in which a young man will be assigned to each debutante to accompany them during the ceremony.

References

• "Advances in Consumer Research Volume 20"; The Consumption of Insignificant Rituals: A Look At Debutante Balls; Jennifer Edson Escalas; 1993
• Elegant Woman.org: Definition of Society Ball
• Dance To Health: Dance and Rites of Passage
• Western Diocese of the Armenian Church; 40th Annual Debutante Ball Huge Success; February 25th, 2011