While AI shapes the future of naming, 2025 has also witnessed a surprising resurgence of vintage names. Names that were once considered old-fashioned—like Agnes, Walter, and Mabel—are now topping baby name charts worldwide. This retro revival is driven by a mix of nostalgia, pop culture influences, and a desire for uniqueness in an increasingly digital world.
Experts point to several factors behind this trend. First, the cyclical nature of naming trends means that names from the early 1900s are due for a comeback. Second, popular media has played a significant role. Hit period dramas like The Gilded Age and Bridgerton have glamorized historical names, making them feel fresh rather than outdated. Additionally, celebrities have embraced the trend—musician Billie Eilish recently named her daughter Edith, while actor Timothée Chalamet welcomed a son named Arthur.
Beyond aesthetics, sociologists suggest that vintage names offer a sense of stability in turbulent times. In an era dominated by rapid technological change and global uncertainty, parents are drawn to names that evoke tradition and endurance. “There’s a comfort in choosing a name that has stood the test of time,” says Dr. Hannah Lee, a cultural anthropologist at Oxford University. “It’s a way of anchoring a child’s identity in something enduring.”
However, the vintage boom isn’t without its challenges. Some parents report facing resistance from older generations who associate these names with their own parents or grandparents. “My mother laughed when I told her we were naming our son Harold,” says Jessica Monroe, a new parent from Chicago. “But to me, it sounds classic and strong.”
Another unexpected twist is the legal battles over “revived” names. In Sweden, a couple attempted to trademark the name Astrid for their baby clothing line, arguing that their marketing efforts had contributed to the name’s resurgence. The case was dismissed, but it raises questions about the commercialization of naming trends.
The vintage name trend shows no signs of slowing down. Baby name experts predict that Eleanor, Theodore, and Beatrice will continue climbing the charts, while lesser-known antique names like Clarence and Dorothea may soon make a comeback. Whether driven by nostalgia or a rejection of modern fads, one thing is clear: the past is the future of naming.
