As we come to the end of 2022, trend forecasters are looking ahead to baby name trends that are set to influence parent’s choices for next year.
If you’re looking for some name inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! Here we look at the top 10 baby name trends for 2023 from Nameberry with examples for each category.
1. More is more
Move over Marie Kondo and minimalism. Maximalist names are confident and with inspiration from old myths, extravagance, history and drama (think ‘Bridgerton’). Examples include:
- Valerian
- Amadeus
- Ambrosia
- Cleopatra
- Venus
2. Retro is back
Names that are so out, they’re back in again. Look out for ‘Stranger Things’ and 80s pop culture inspired names, including:
- Blane
- Ferris
- Penny
- Eddie
- Sloane
3. Golden vibes
Your baby-to-be is the light of your life, so why not name them as such! It could be due to Harry Styles’ hit song ‘Golden’ or because parents want some sunshine, lavishness, and optimism in 2023. Whatever the reason, here are some shiny name examples:
- Apollo
- Lucien
- Soleil
- Aura
- Sterling
4. Cowboy-cool
A few recent popular Sci-Fi Western movies have propelled some cowboy names into the charts. They’re reminiscent of a simpler time, they’re outdoorsy and rugged. We’ll see interest in names such as:
- Boone
- Foster
- Wilder
- Brando
- Tex
5. Shorter, cross-cultural approach
These names are unique but recognisable, and unlikely to be shortened. For the parents who prefer a simpler name, there’s an interest in short punchy names ending in ‘i’ that are easy to pronounce anywhere in the world, including:
6. X factor
Names with X in them are steadily rising to the top of the charts. Examples include:
- Bronx
- Felix
- Huxley
- Onyx
- Pax
7. Intentional and active
This is a current celebrity trend, but regular parents alike are intrigued with adjective names, which are becoming increasingly popular, such as:
- Bright
- Sincere
- True
- Valiant
- Zealous
8. Vintage and sweet
The trend of giving grandpa names for girls is on the rise. They’re often retro nicknames that still manage to be a little edgy. Think names like:
- Frankie
- Georgie
- Lou
- Billie
- Miller
9. Blue-green shades
A new trend in nature names, blues and greens of every hue are enjoying some popularity right now. They’re calming, peaceful choices. Some examples include:
- Cyan
- Forest
- Sage
- Bluebell
- Azure
10. New endings
It’s predicted that parents will invent their own names by adding different endings to traditional choices. Endings such as -ett, -land, and -aire, with examples including:
- Bowyn
- Emberly
- Romer
- Cyaire
- Levitt
If you didn’t find anything you love in this list, check out these baby name ideas…
20 unique unisex baby names you will love