Guy M. Sconzo Early College High School brought tradition to its campus on Wednesday with a Quinceañera Fashion Show in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Students modeled traditional gowns, shared the meaning behind a Quinceañera celebration, and filled the campus with handmade decorations and music.
A Quinceañera marks a young woman’s transition from childhood to young adulthood. For several students, the event was an opportunity to honor family traditions while helping peers learn more about the celebration’s significance.
“This year’s Quinceañera Fashion Show came about because two of my students had recent Quinceañeras,” said Cynthia Campos, Spanish teacher at Sconzo Early College High School. “They suggested a fashion show so more students could display their dresses.”
Campos’ Spanish students handmade the colorful decorations that were on display.
“It came out very beautiful,” Campos said. “I hope this becomes a tradition we can carry on as part of our Hispanic Heritage celebrations. We just want to showcase our culture so that everyone can see it and feel it on our campus.”
For students who participated, walking in the show was both personal and educational.
“It’s really meaningful to be able to have this and wear my dress,” said Leilani Cantu, a sophomore. “I’ve been thinking about this since my freshman year because it reflects our Hispanic culture.”
“Most people didn’t even know what a Quinceañera was, but we were able to explain the significance to them,” added Alondra Mejia, also a sophomore. “Seeing the dresses and the performance really helped them understand. I know this was a one-time, unforgettable experience for them.”
To continue the celebration throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the campus will host a series of Wednesday performances featuring student groups such as the Latin Fusion Sconzo Dancers and Humble High School’s Mariachi Los Tres Gatos.
Campos and the students hope the fashion show returns next year with even more participants.
“We’d love to see more girls take part with their own Quinceañera dresses,” Campos said. “It’s a beautiful way to honor who we are.”
SECHS Quinceañera Fashion Show by Lori Maugans