Debut presentations vary by regional culture and are also frequently referenced as "debutante balls," "cotillion balls" or "coming-out" parties. The male equivalent is often referred to as "beautillion ball". A lone debutante might have her own debut, or she might share it with a sister or other close relative. Modern debutante balls are often charity events: the parents of the debutante donate a certain amount of money to the designated cause, and the invited guests pay for their tickets. These balls may be elaborate formal affairs and involve not only "debs" but junior debutantes, escorts and ushers, flower girls and pages as well.
In Australia, débutante balls (or colloquially "deb balls") are usually organised by high schools, church groups or service clubs such as Lions or Rotary. The girls who take part are in either Year 11 or 12 at high school (ie aged between 16-18) and the event is often used as a fund-raiser for local charities. Although still popular in many country towns, there is no pressure on most girls to 'make their debut'. In some circles, it may still be seen as a rite of passage for the elite upper class.
In Australia, débutante balls (or colloquially "deb balls") are usually organised by high schools, church groups or service clubs such as Lions or Rotary. The girls who take part are in either Year 11 or 12 at high school (ie aged between 16-18) and the event is often used as a fund-raiser for local charities. Although still popular in many country towns, there is no pressure on most girls to 'make their debut'. In some circles, it may still be seen as a rite of passage for the elite upper class.