Trying to narrow down the perfect baby name can feel like a really big task. There are so many ways the name could go wrong, not to mention so many opinions that don’t need to be there. Not to mention knowing that this name will very likely be with our child forever.
So, how do you narrow it down? There are many places we can look to for baby name inspiration, from our own family tree to pop culture to names that used to be trendy but aren’t anymore. Once you find a perfect name that fits, the pressure will lift and it will feel right.
If you’re expecting a baby girl and you’ve been hoping to find a vintage name that isn’t used often these days but still has some charm to it, we’ve done the work for you. Check out these lovely girl names that were popular more than 100 years ago — yet are still gorgeous today.
Florence
Clara
Clara is one of the sweetest old-fashioned names around. Adding to its charm is the meaning behind the name, which is “famous, brilliant,” perfect words that parents want their baby associated with. In 1903, Clara was twentieth on the list of baby names, and while it’s not disappeared entirely, it’s a less popular option for parents-to-be.
Dorothy
So many of us know the name Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, but this name goes back much further than that movie. In 1902, Dorothy was the 15th most popular baby girl name, and we haven’t heard much of it since. The name, which means “gift of God,” took a nosedive in popularity in 2009 and is just itching for a major comeback.
Mildred
From 1900 to 1930, Mildred was a popular baby girl name that was always in the top 20 list during those three decades. However, after that it started to drop — slowly at first, until a big plummet in the 1970s, and then virtually off the charts by the early 2000s. The name deserves a comeback because it’s lovely and means “gentle strength,” which is beautiful.
Louise
We know the name Louisa and Louis, but Louise is another spelling that comes with a slightly different meaning. Louise, which means “famous warrior,” is strong to use as inspiration, and it’s that perfect in-between of being unique enough – since we don’t hear it much now – and not too out there. It’s a name that will serve her well as a newborn or a senior. It was a big name in the 1900s, too!
Gladys
This name is so elegant, and we’re surprised it’s not heard more often in modern times. The name dates way back into the 1800s, but in 1902 it was ranked in the 12th spot in popular names for girls. The name is said to be a variant of Claudia, which doesn’t have the prettiest meaning, being “lame,” but we think it’s pretty enough to stand on its own.
Ruth
Ruth has that vintage feel to it because it has not been a popular name for a while. With gender-neutral names being heavily favored these days, it’s the perfect time to bring it back into popular circles. In 1902, this Biblical name was near the top, landing at number five on that year’s baby name list.
