In recent years, many parents have embraced names with vintage charm, bringing old-fashioned names back into the spotlight.
These “retro” names, often once considered outdated, have been revitalized and are now seen as stylish and timeless choices.
Combining the nostalgia of the past with a fresh, modern appeal, these names bridge the gap between old and new.
Here are several modern names with retro vibes, showcasing how classic names are being updated for a new generation.
1. Milo
Origin: Latin, meaning “soldier” or “merciful.”
Milo has a quaint, old-world feel, yet its popularity in recent years suggests a resurgence of vintage names with contemporary flair. It brings to mind a cheerful, youthful spirit and evokes images of classic literature and cinema. Despite its retro roots, Milo is now perceived as modern and fresh.
Notable Person: Milo Ventimiglia, actor.
2. Amelia
Origin: Latin, meaning “work” or “industrious.”
Amelia was once seen as a dated name, but in recent years, it has soared to the top of the baby name charts. The name exudes vintage sophistication, evoking the early 20th century and famous figures like Amelia Earhart, while feeling fresh and modern for today’s generation.
Notable Person: Amelia Earhart, pioneering aviator.
3. Evelyn
Origin: English, meaning “wished for child.”
Evelyn is a name that has made a strong comeback in the past decade. Once a common name in the early 1900s, it now feels fresh again, offering a sense of grace and elegance. It strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern sensibility, making it a favorite for many parents.
Notable Person: Evelyn Waugh, English writer.
4. Sebastian
Origin: Greek, meaning “venerable” or “revered.”
Sebastian is a name with strong historical roots, having been popular in Europe for centuries. Its retro vibe is balanced with a modern edge, thanks to its appearance in recent films and TV shows. It feels both aristocratic and accessible, making it a versatile choice.
Notable Person: Sebastian Stan, actor.
5. Nora
Origin: Latin, meaning “honor” or “light.”
Nora has an old-fashioned charm, often associated with classic names from the early 20th century. It has gained new popularity in recent years, thanks to its elegant simplicity. The name invokes feelings of warmth and familiarity while maintaining a modern, chic feel.
Notable Person: Nora Ephron, filmmaker and writer.
6. Charlie
Origin: German, meaning “free man.”
Charlie is a name that has maintained its classic appeal, but its unisex popularity today gives it a modern twist. Once considered a “retro” boy’s name, Charlie is now used for both boys and girls, making it a fun, accessible, and timeless choice.
Notable Person: Charlie Chaplin, legendary actor and comedian.
7. Clara
Origin: Latin, meaning “bright” or “clear.”
Clara is a name that evokes old-world charm, but its revival in recent years has given it a fresh, modern appeal. With its classic elegance, Clara feels both nostalgic and contemporary, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate vintage beauty with a modern edge.
Notable Person: Clara Barton, American nurse and founder of the American Red Cross.
8. Finn
Origin: Irish, meaning “fair” or “white.”
Finn is a name with strong literary roots, especially in Irish mythology and epic tales like The Song of the Cuckoo. It has grown in popularity in recent years, particularly in the U.S., due to its youthful energy and timeless appeal. Finn feels both retro and fresh, making it a standout choice for boys.
Notable Person: Finn Wolfhard, actor and musician.
9. Ruby
Origin: Latin, meaning “red gemstone.”
Ruby is a classic vintage name that is making a strong comeback. Once popular in the early 20th century, it has a bold, colorful feel that makes it perfect for today’s modern era. With its association to the precious gem, the name Ruby exudes vibrancy and elegance.
Notable Person: Ruby Rose, actress and model.
10. George
Origin: Greek, meaning “farmer” or “earthworker.”
George is a name that carries a sense of timeless tradition. Although it may have seemed old-fashioned for a while, it’s now seen as a vintage choice with modern appeal. With recent high-profile figures like Prince George, this name has reentered the spotlight as a charming and classic option.
Notable Person: George Clooney, actor and philanthropist.
11. Hazel
Origin: Old English, meaning “the hazel tree.”
Hazel is a name with roots in nature, symbolizing wisdom, protection, and beauty. Though once considered old-fashioned, it has become a trendy choice for modern parents looking for a name that feels both vintage and fresh. The name has an earthy, sweet quality that is charming and timeless.
Notable Person: Hazel McCallion, former mayor of Mississauga, Ontario.
12. Oscar
Origin: Old Norse, meaning “God’s spear.”
Oscar has long been associated with literary figures, and its retro vibe gives it a sense of elegance. Though once considered a name of an older generation, Oscar’s rise in popularity suggests that it is enjoying a revival. The name conveys sophistication, creativity, and classic charm.
Notable Person: Oscar Wilde, renowned playwright and poet.
13. Ivy
Origin: English, meaning “faithfulness.”
Ivy is a name that has recently experienced a revival, and it now feels modern yet nostalgic. It invokes images of vintage floral patterns and the creeping ivy plants that grow in nature, symbolizing growth, faithfulness, and endurance.
Notable Person: Ivy Queen, Puerto Rican singer and rapper.
14. Jack
Origin: English, meaning “God is gracious.”
Jack is a simple, strong name with deep historical roots. It has been a beloved choice for generations but feels fresh and timeless in today’s world. The name has a classic appeal with its short, snappy feel, and it’s popular across many cultures and languages.
Notable Person: Jack Nicholson, legendary actor.
15. Violet
Origin: Latin, meaning “purple flower.”
Violet is a soft, floral name that was once considered very vintage but is now seen as fashionable and contemporary. It brings to mind a delicate, beautiful flower and exudes an air of sophistication and timeless charm. It’s a name that feels both retro and elegant for today.
Notable Person: Violet Beauregarde, character from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.
16. Arthur
Origin: Celtic, meaning “bear” or “warrior.”
Arthur has a regal, timeless feel, made popular by the legendary King Arthur of medieval lore. Although it was once considered an old-fashioned name, its return to the baby name scene has proven its classic charm. Arthur today feels sophisticated, heroic, and full of history.
Notable Person: Arthur Miller, playwright.
17. Thea
Origin: Greek, meaning “goddess” or “divine.”
Thea has an old-world charm, but its simplicity and elegance make it modern and versatile. Derived from Greek mythology, the name evokes a sense of divine beauty and wisdom. Its vintage roots combined with contemporary appeal make it a standout choice.
Notable Person: Thea, character in The Hunger Games.
18. Mabel
Origin: Latin, meaning “lovable” or “dear.”
Mabel is a vintage name that has recently made a comeback, often associated with classic Hollywood stars and early 20th-century icons. It exudes warmth and sweetness, making it a perfect retro yet modern name choice for a baby today.
Notable Person: Mabel Normand, silent film actress.
19. Leo
Origin: Latin, meaning “lion.”
Leo has remained a popular choice for boys for generations, but its current resurgence shows its modern appeal. The name has a strong, powerful energy, evoking courage and leadership, with a timeless, vintage feel that makes it as popular now as ever.
Notable Person: Leo Tolstoy, Russian writer.
20. Ada
Origin: Germanic
Derived from the Old High German word adal, meaning “nobility” or “of noble birth.” The name carries a sense of dignity, strength, and grace. It has been associated with leadership and wisdom, symbolizing someone who carries themselves with honor.
Notable Person: Ada Lovelace, mathematician and writer, recognized as the first computer programmer.
21. Beatrice
Origin: Latin
From beatus, meaning “blessed,” and beatrix, “she who brings happiness.” The name implies someone who brings joy and good fortune to others, radiating positivity and a nurturing presence.
Notable Person: Beatrice Portinari, muse of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy.
22. Daphne
Origin: Greek
Derived from the Greek word for “laurel tree.” In Greek mythology, Daphne was a nymph transformed into a laurel tree to escape Apollo. The name symbolizes victory, honor, and resilience, as laurel leaves were used to crown champions.
Notable Person: Daphne du Maurier, British author of Rebecca.
23. Edgar
Origin: Old English
From ēad (wealth, fortune) and gār (spear), meaning “prosperous spear” or “wealthy warrior.” This name reflects strength, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking, often tied to historical kings and warriors.
Notable Person: Edgar Allan Poe, American writer and poet.
24. Fiona
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
From the Gaelic word fionn, meaning “fair” or “white.” It connotes purity, beauty, and clarity, often associated with a serene and noble character.
Notable Person: Fiona Apple, American singer-songwriter.
25. Gideon
Origin: Hebrew
From the Hebrew word gid’on, meaning “hewer” or “feller of trees.” This name implies strength, determination, and resourcefulness. In the Bible, Gideon was a judge known for his bravery and reliance on faith to achieve victory.
Notable Person: Gideon Welles, U.S. Secretary of the Navy during the Civil W
26. Iris
Origin: Greek
It Means “rainbow” in Greek. In mythology, Iris was the messenger of the gods and a personification of the rainbow, symbolizing connection, hope, and the bridge between heaven and earth.
Notable Person: Iris Murdoch, British novelist and philosopher.
27. Jasper
Origin: Persian
It Means “treasurer” or “keeper of treasure.” Jasper evokes imagery of wealth, wisdom, and stability. It is also associated with the gemstone, symbolizing strength and grounding energy.
Notable Person: Jasper Johns, American painter and sculptor.