It's exciting when we find out we're having a baby! And after much discussion, some confusion, and likely a lot of input from family and friends who have all suggested baby names, we’ve finally picked the perfect name for our daughter. We're excited, and oh so relieved, until our mom or mother-in-law calls and asks, “Have you chosen a middle name yet?”
Selecting a middle name for a child may not feel as pressure-filled as choosing her first name, but we still want to choose wisely. Some things we’ll want to consider: Will my child regret this middle name when she grows up? How does the name sound between the first and last name? Should the name have a special significance to our family? What about a middle name that gives a nod to our heritage? Don’t forget to write the full name out and also check if her initials spell out something laughable, like SMH, BUTT, or FML.
Whether we choose something short and sweet, a long double middle name to pass down a family name, a super feminine middle name, or even a masculine middle name, choose a name that is meaningful, even if no one understands the obscure reference! Can’t decide between grandma and the partner's favorite aunt? Use both! An increasing number of parents are choosing to give their children two middle names — one from each side of the family. For those looking for unique middle names for girls, we have 10 picked out for inspiration.
FELICITY
Virtue names never go out of style, and they’re a great way to incorporate a theme into a baby's name. If Felicity (meaning “happiness”) isn’t quite right, consider Serenity, Hope, Faith, Mercy, or Grace.
LUNA
This sweet name meaning “the moon” is the perfect balance for a longer first and last name. Luna is the first name of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend’s daughter. Other short middle name options include: Ava, Maya, Mia, Eva, and Cora.
HAVEN
Jessica Alba’s second daughter has this word name as her first name, but Haven is pretty for a middle name as well. It’s not an over-popular name, which makes it a unique choice. (Alba’s first daughter is named Honor, and young son is Hayes) Haven means safe harbor.
RUBY
This precious stone varies in hue from a deep crimson or purple to a pale rose. The gem will also make for a lovely middle name for a girl. Want something similar to Ruby? Try Giada (which means “jade” in Italian), Pearl, Jade, or Esmeralda which means “emerald” in Spanish.
QUINN
This quirky name has been popular for girls on shows like One Tree Hill, Zoey 101, and Glee. We happen to love the spelling and the fact that it’s a gender neutral name. If Quinn isn’t quite it, other similar unique middle name options include Rory, Charlie, Peyton, Remy, and Rowan.
VIVIENNE
We love the soft sound of this French name and Vivienne means “life.” For parents looking for other French names, Juliette, Margaux, Elodie, and Camille could work. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have a daughter whose first name is Vivienne. It can also be spelled Vivian.
IMAN
We all know Iman as the supermodel/Mrs. David Bowie, so it’s easy to assume that it’s a female name. Iman is actually a short version of the masculine Immanuel. Iman is a Muslim name meaning “faith.” It’s also a popular boys' name in the Persian community.
TRUE
It’s very true that this short and sweet word name works beautifully for girls. True sounds like she’ll grow up to be creative. Spell it Tru, or use variations of the word, like Truth or Truly. Actress Meg Ryan’s daughter is named Daisy True.
IRIS
Pretty floral names make a great choice for a middle name, especially if it’s following a first name that is more gender neutral. Iris also means “rainbow” in Greek. Other florals to consider for a daughter include Dahlia, Lily, Violet, Rose, and Daisy.
WINTER
Autumn and Summer have long been the more traditional season names given to girls, but Winter is also a great choice for a middle name. No matter the season the child is born, this name is bold and unique. Nicole Richie and Joel Madden’s daughter is named Harlow Winter.
