When you’re choosing a name for your new baby, it may be worthwhile to consider a modern, one-of-a-kind moniker that hasn’t been around for a while—but don’t discount some of these classic options.
There are countless names that were considered run-of-the-mill generations ago that are worthy of consideration. Popular names from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s may prove to be the perfect choice for your little one.
Why You Should Go with a Vintage Name
There is undeniable pressure for parents to be new and unique in this modern age. That being said, a nod to the old school may deliver just what they were looking for. Vintage names have weathered the storm and stood true as solid, good picks for generations. Considering a name that hasn’t been popular in a while may honor a late relative, pay homage to a different time period, or it may simply add to your new baby’s unique character.
Vintage Girls Names
Young ladies from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s not only had style—they also had an eclectic selection of classic names. Here are a few ladies’ names we’d like to see make a comeback:
- Ada
- Adelaide
- Alma
- Amelia
- Audrey
- Bernadette
- Beatrice
- Bernice
- Blanche
- Clara
- Constance
- Cora
- Dolores
- Dorothea
- Dot
- Ethel
- Edith
- Esther
- Geraldine
- Gertrude
- Grace
- Hazel
- Hedy
- Ida
- Josephine
- June
- Kitty
- Louise
- Lillian
- Lucille
- Mabel
- Marjorie
- Nanette
- Nellie
- Opal
- Phyllis
- Prudence
- Ruby
- Rose
- Tess
- Una
- Vera
- Violet
- Wilma
- Winifred
Vintage Boys Names
Some classic boys’ names from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s have proved timeless. They may not be as common today, but some of our favorites include:
- Albert
- Alfred
- Arnold
- Arthur
- Bernard
- Benedict
- Clarence
- Clifford
- Earl
- Eugene
- Edmund
- Edward
- Edwin
- Elmer
- Emmet
- Ethan
- Felix
- Francis
- Frank
- Herbert
- Herman
- Hugh
- Josiah
- Leonard
- Lloyd
- Louis
- Milton
- Norman
- Oscar
- Otis
- Otto
- Oliver
- Theodore
- Vernon
- Victor
- Wilbur
How to Pick the Right Name for Your Baby
Whether you’re paying tribute to a family member or plucking a name randomly from a hat, choosing a name for your baby should be a fun adventure—and going vintage is a great way to pay tribute to your child’s unique character.
One piece of advice for any parents struggling with the decision: Close your eyes when you say a name. The name that brings a genuine smile to your face is most often the one that will be right for your child.
