QUEENS, New York (WABC) -- An exhibition of quinceañera dresses, all worn by girls in or near the Tri-State area, is on display through Dec. 18 at the Godwin-Ternbach Museum at Queens College.

Inspired by an essay fashion design student Stephanie Giraldo-Deabreu wrote for class, the exhibition features dresses created by Emily Ripley's students at Queens College.

"I was so thrilled when I read it," said Ripley, the director of the fashion and design program at the school. "I thought, 'I have to celebrate this!' ... I conceptualized the whole exhibition out of it."

A quinceañera is a coming-of-age celebration for Latina girls on their 15th birthdays, and the dress is often a major highlight.

"Obviously there is a princess vibe, but it's also about tradition and family" said Giraldo-Dea

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