The Cotillion

July 27, 2023 9:53 AM

The Society’s annual ball is the culmination of eight months of etiquette lessons, leadership workshops, community service projects and cultural events. As the girls take to the dance floor, they become part of a legacy of Black debutantes in the city and beyond.
posted by praemunire (4 comments total)

I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I did, so thanks for sharing! This quote from the article sums up the enjoyment nicely: "The Cotillion Society has worked to reframe the ball not as an antiquated mating ritual but as a launching pad for the girls’ academic and professional ambitions."
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 10:24 AM on July 27, 2023 [4 favorites]

I loved the photos in this.
posted by Dip Flash at 10:58 AM on July 27, 2023

This was beautifully put together, with the photos and article doled out as I scrolled. Wonderful photos! My favorites were the rehearsal photos, the girls in crinoline and flannel!
posted by SaharaRose at 12:07 PM on July 27, 2023

Once while attending Major Unnamed University in the south, I had a late lab session in one of the big halls. On the way in I stopped to hold the door for the most incredibly beautiful and poised young African American woman. I got stuck at the door opening it over and over like the butler for several minutes, as each increasingly stunning young woman walked out. Turns out there was an informational meeting for a similar event in the hall. i just thought I had died and this was my new blessed eternity.
posted by Abehammerb Lincoln at 1:03 PM on July 27, 2023 [5 favorites]