Romantic relationships have always been a core element of de colegialas. These telenovelas often focus on the emotional lives of their characters, exploring the ups and downs of high school romance. From unrequited love to love triangles, romantic storylines have captivated audiences, making them invested in the characters' lives.

The mid-2000s to the early 2010s are often referred to as the "Golden Age" of de colegialas. During this period, telenovelas like "Yo Soy la Dueña" (2007), "Lola, La Comedia" (2007), and "Muchachitas Sin Vergüenza" (2015) captivated audiences with their relatable characters, engaging storylines, and memorable soundtracks.

The first de colegialas telenovelas emerged in the 1980s, with shows like "La Usurpadora" (1998) and "Kassandra" (1992) becoming instant hits. These early telenovelas were characterized by their innocent and naive portrayal of high school life, with a focus on the friendships and romantic entanglements of the characters. The storylines were often simplistic, with clear-cut heroes and villains, and a strong emphasis on romance.

These telenovelas not only explored romantic relationships but also tackled topics like identity, peer pressure, and self-discovery. The characters were more nuanced, with flaws and imperfections that made them more relatable to audiences. The storylines were often more complex, with unexpected twists and turns that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.