There’s something so magical (and scary 😬) about naming a baby, isn’t there? It’s this tiny decision that is also impossibly big—a choice that stays with your child forever. If your like a lot of other parents, the search for the perfect name is leading you to the past, where vintage baby names hold their own unique charm.
These names aren’t just old-fashioned—they’re timeless. They’ve stood the test of time, carrying stories, traditions, and a certain elegance we just don’t see as much in modern trends. Whether it’s the sweet simplicity of names like Nora or the quiet strength of names like Theodore (and gosh, I just love Theo for short), vintage names feel like a little gift from history, waiting to be rediscovered and used again.
If you’re looking for a name that’s meaningful, beautiful, and just a little unexpected, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the world of vintage baby names together—where every name truly does have a story, and every story kind of feels like a little hug.
But before we dive into all the things vintage baby names – Who is The Labor Mama and Why Am I Here?
Hey friend! I’m Lo – also known around here and social media as The Labor Mama. I’ve spent my nursing career in labor, delivery, and postpartum, have birthed 4 of my own babies, have labored thousands of mamas at the bedside, have taught thousands of students online, and have even delivered a few speedy little babies with my bare hands (oops).
Here at TLM, I offer online classes about birth, postpartum, newborn care, and breastfeeding to empower you the way everyone should be. The education + support I offer gives you experience, evidence, and empathy; you’re getting all of my years of “clinical” RN knowledge, honestly combined with my real experiences as a mama, nurse, and CLC. These are not your average hospital classes (those won’t do it, I promise), and honestly, birth, postpartum, and breastfeeding don’t follow a textbook or protocol anyway. You need to know so much more than that!
If you want to connect with me further, head to Instagram. There are hundreds of thousands of us over there learning together daily.
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Why Name Your Baby a Vintage Name?
Naming a baby is no small task. It’s a decision packed with meaning, history, and a dash of hope for the future. As much as I love it, my husband and I have always struuuuugggled too. It’s hard to decide, right? Finding a name you both agree on can be tough, but I think picking a “genre” or a theme, like vintage, can be super helpful.
Here’s why vintage names are making a comeback—and why they might be just what you’re looking for:
- Timelessness That Never Fades
Vintage names aren’t tied to fleeting trends. They’ve been loved for generations and feel just as fresh today as they did a century ago. - A Connection to the Past
Choosing a vintage name is like passing down a piece of family history or honoring the stories of those who came before. Maybe it’s a nod to a grandparent, or perhaps it just feels right. - Unique Yet Familiar
While vintage names are gaining popularity, they’re still beautifully uncommon. A name like Beatrice or Everett stands out in a sea of Avas and Liams, but it’s not so unfamiliar that it feels out of place. - Full of Meaning and Depth
Many vintage names have origins and meanings that reflect strength, grace, or beauty. They’re more than just a name—they’re a story waiting to be told. - A Touch of Nostalgia
Let’s be honest—there’s something heartwarming about a name that takes us back in time. Vintage names feel like cozy blankets, warm kitchens, and handwritten letters. They remind us of simpler days.
Vintage Baby Names for Girls
If you’re dreaming of a name for your little girl that feels elegant, timeless, and full of character, these vintage picks are just perfect.
Ada (German) – “Noble” or “nobility.”
Agnes (Greek) – “Pure” or “chaste.”
Alice (German) – “Noble” or “exalted.”
Alma (Latin) – “Nurturing” or “kind.”
Beatrice (Latin) – “Bringer of happiness” or “blessed.”
Clara (Latin) – “Bright” or “clear.”
Clementine (French/Latin) – “Gentle” or “merciful.”
Cora (Greek) – “Maiden” or “daughter.”
Daisy (English) – Named after the flower; “day’s eye.”
Dorothy (Greek) – “Gift of God.”
Edith (Old English) – “Prosperous in war.”
Eleanor (Greek/Old French) – “Bright” or “shining one.”
Elsie (Scottish) – “Pledged to God.”
Esther (Persian) – “Star.”
Etta (English) – “Ruler of the home.”
Evelyn (English) – “Desired” or “beautiful bird.”
Florence (Latin) – “Flourishing” or “prosperous.”
Frances (Latin) – “Free one” or “from France.”
Genevieve (French) – “Tribal woman” or “woman of the race.”
Gladys (Welsh) – “Country” or “land.”
Grace (Latin) – “Favor” or “blessing.”
Harriet (German) – “Home ruler.”
Hazel (English) – Named after the hazel tree; symbolizes wisdom.
Hilda (German) – “Battle woman.”
Irene (Greek) – “Peace.”
Ivy (English) – Derived from the plant, symbolizing fidelity.
Josephine (Hebrew) – “God will increase.”
June (Latin) – “Young” or derived from the Roman goddess Juno.
Lillian (Latin) – Derived from “lily,” symbolizing purity.
Louise (French/German) – “Famous warrior.”
Lucille (Latin) – “Light.”
Margaret (Greek) – “Pearl.”
Mabel (Latin) – “Lovable.”
Nora (Irish/Greek) – “Honor” or “light.”
Pearl (Latin) – Derived from the gemstone, symbolizing purity.
Rose (Latin) – Named after the flower; symbolizes love.
Ruth (Hebrew) – “Friend” or “companion.”
Sylvia (Latin) – “Forest” or “wooded.”
Thelma (Greek) – “Will” or “volition.”
Viola (Latin) – “Violet flower.”
Vintage Baby Names for Boys
For boys, vintage names are all about strength and charm. These names carry the weight of history while feeling fresh and unique.
Albert (German) – “Noble” and “bright.”
Alfred (Old English) – “Wise counselor.”
Arthur (Celtic) – “Bear” or “noble.”
Bernard (German) – “Strong” or “brave as a bear.”
Calvin (Latin) – “Bald” or “hairless.”
Cecil (Latin) – “Blind” or “dim-sighted.”
Clarence (Latin) – “Bright” or “clear.”
Claude (Latin) – “Lame” or “limping.”
Clyde (Scottish) – Named after the River Clyde; means “warm” or “friendly.”
Edward (Old English) – “Wealthy guardian.”
Edwin (Old English) – “Rich friend.”
Ernest (German) – “Serious” or “determined.”
Eugene (Greek) – “Well-born” or “noble.”
Everett (Old English) – “Brave boar.”
Felix (Latin) – “Happy” or “fortunate.”
Francis (Latin) – “Free one” or “from France.”
Frederick (German) – “Peaceful ruler.”
George (Greek) – “Farmer” or “earthworker.”
Harold (Old English) – “Army ruler.”
Henry (German) – “Ruler of the home.”
Howard (German) – “High guardian” or “brave heart.”
Irving (Scottish) – “Green water” or “fresh water.”
Jack (English) – “God is gracious.”
James (Hebrew) – “Supplanter.”
Jasper (Persian) – “Bringer of treasure.”
John (Hebrew) – “God is gracious.”
Lawrence (Latin) – “From Laurentum” or “crowned with laurel.”
Leonard (German) – “Brave lion.”
Louis (German/French) – “Famous warrior.”
Marvin (Welsh) – “Sea friend.”
Oscar (Irish) – “Deer lover” or “friend of deer.”
Otis (Old English) – “Wealthy.”
Raymond (German) – “Wise protector.”
Robert (German) – “Bright fame.”
Samuel (Hebrew) – “God has heard.”
Theodore (Greek) – “Gift of God.”
Victor (Latin) – “Conqueror.”
Walter (German) – “Ruler of the army.”
Warren (French) – “Enclosure” or “watchman.”
William (German) – “Resolute protector”
Looking for some creative ways to announce your little one’s name? Here’s some customizable options!
Tips for Choosing the Right Name
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, here are a few tips to help you find the perfect name for your little one.
- Say It Out Loud: Does it feel natural? Does it pair well with your last name?
- Consider the Meaning: Does the meaning of the name resonate with you?
- Think About Nicknames: Will you love the shortened versions of the name too? (I’m a HUGE name shortener, nickname person, so this is massive for me!)
- Trust Your Gut: If a name just feels right, it probably is!
- Don’t Worry About the Top 20 Style Lists: Don’t give up on a name just because it’s popular (or not). This is YOUR family and YOUR baby, and if the name is part of your sweet vision, that matters.
To wrap up this post about vintage baby name ideas…
Choosing a baby name is such a meaningful journey, isn’t it? It’s more than just a word—it’s a gift you give your child, one that carries hopes, history, and a piece of your heart. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of vintage names or still exploring options, I hope this list sparked some ideas and inspiration for you.
If you’re still looking for names, here’s a couple other posts that might help you: Top 30 Gender Neutral Baby Names and Top 30 Baby Boy Names + Their Meanings. This book can also be a helpful resource as well!
And here’s the best part: no matter which name you choose, it will feel perfect once your little one is here. They’ll grow into their name, make it their own, and leave their mark on it in ways you can’t even imagine yet. I can promise you this is true – because it’s happened 4 times in my house!
If you loved this list—or if one of these names is on your own shortlist—I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and let me know your favorites or share the name you’ve picked for your little one. This is such a special time, and I’m honored to be a small part of your journey.
Happy naming, mama—you’ve got this! xx-Lo
Loved this blog post? Here’s some others you’ll probably like:
- Nursery Design, Recommendations, and Must Haves
- 24 Books Your Nursery Shelves Need
- Newborn Must-Haves: 13 Items My Family Has Loved
More resources (and freebies!) for you to take a peek at:
- Comprehensive Birth Plan and Birth Priorities templates
- A complete Third Trimester Checklist
- The RN + mama of 3 Ultimate Packing List
- The Labor Mama online birthing classes for every family
