They were popular in the 1700s, but cotillions are still alive and well in N.J.

Editor’s note: This piece is part of Communities of New Jersey, a new series meant to highlight, showcase and cover communities underserved by large media organizations like NJ.com.

The history of cotillions — the formal, highly ritualized gatherings originally intended to introduce women of marrying age to polite society — are a tradition dating to mid-18th century England. But last month, the fancy coming out party came to life, right here in New Jersey.

The Monmouth County Cotillion Committee hosted its 71st annual party for seven debutantes, the French term for young women making their social debut, and for two male counterparts known as escorts.

Like last year’s cotillion, it was held at Riverside Gardens Park in Redbank, an outdoor setting meant to ease coronavirus concerns and unmask radiant smiles that matched the white gowns and pearls that all seven debs wore.

Because the cotillion was once again

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