Choosing a baby name isn't always easy for parents, but like most things, name trends tend to come full circle. In recent years, many parents have been turning to the early 1900s for inspiration, as names from the Victorian eraare making a noticeable comeback.
A growing number of vintage names have stood the test of time, with over 14 classic choices from the era now being embraced by millennial parents. If you're expecting and searching for a name with charm and staying power,these timeless picks might just be worth considering.
Baby name experts at Nameberry have identified 14 top girl and boy names from the early 20th century that are gaining popularity once again, and explained why they’re resonating with modern parents.
Adelaide
Adelaide is one of the most distinctive names in the “ad” family, joining others like Adeline, Madeline, Addison, and Adele, which are all trending in the UK. Adelaide offers versatility with charming nicknames like Addie or Heidi, the latter of which remains a favourite among British parents.
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Bea
Bea, once a shortened form of Beatrice, has now gained traction as a standalone name. It enjoyed a spot in the UK’s Top 100 from 2013 to 2019 and remains a much-loved vintage revival.
Birdie
Birdie has soared in popularity recently, jumping more than 180 spots between 2022 and 2023, according to Nameberry. Once a nickname for names like Bertha and Berenice - which aren’t likely to return anytime soon - Birdie is now an energetic and playful name option in its own right.
Cecilia
Cecilia is another vintage gem making a comeback. It’s a classic name that was once overlooked in favour of traditional favourites like Amelia and Charlotte. Now, with a fresh feel and strong historical roots, it’s winning over a new generation of parents across the UK and US.
Estelle
Estelle has joined the wave of celestial and star-inspired names currently trending, such as Celeste, Luna, Aurora, Nova, and Selena. Estelle manages to blend the vintage and cosmic naming trends beautifully, offering elegance with a timeless appeal.
Goldie
Goldie, originally a nickname for someone with blonde hair, has become a cheerful and vibrant given name. It climbed more than 260 spots in 2023 alone, making it one of the UK’s fastest-rising names for girls. Parents are drawn to its sunny associations and retro charm.
Henrietta
Henrietta fits the bill for those seeking a unique yet traditional choice. As names like Matilda, Harriet, and Ottilie have gone mainstream, Henrietta has re-emerged as a stylish and unexpected alternative, catching the eyes of British parents looking for something different.
Opal
Opal continues the trend of ‘O’ names gaining traction. Popular picks like Olivia, Orla, Olive, and Ottilie have paved the way, and Opal offers the same stylish sound with a touch of rarity - at least for now.
Viola
Viola, with its floral and musical associations, provides a strong vintage vibe. While Lily, Poppy, Daisy, and Violet have long been UK favourites, Viola offers a classic alternative that feels both elegant and distinctive.
Alvin
Alvin is joining the revival of traditional names beginning with “Al”, such as Alfred, Albert, and their nicknamed counterparts Alfie and Albie. Having been underused for years, Alvin now carries a certain novelty while staying rooted in tradition. Alvie is another variant riding the same wave.
Laurence
Laurence is emerging as a strong contender for parents seeking a name that sits in the sweet spot: not too common, not too obscure. The name feels refined and timeless, and it easily shortens to the charming nickname Laurie.
Laurie
Laurie itself has gained popularity as a gentle, classic British boy name. Its popularity surged after Timothée Chalamet portrayed Laurie in the 2019 film adaptation of Little Women by Greta Gerwig, bringing renewed attention to the name.
Ozzie / Ozzy
Ozzy - or Ozzie - is a lively, spirited name rising quickly in popularity across the English-speaking world. It works well as a nickname for trendier ‘O’ names like Oliver, Otis, and Otto, though full-length versions such as Oswald and Osborn have yet to appear on the UK charts. Still, Ozzy’s energy and appeal make it a modern favourite.
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