How many young girls do you know named Florence and Harriet? If you live in the USA, the answer is probably "none." In Britain, though, those are likely names to hear in any playground.
Many name trends in the two countries are the same, but the points of difference make for a fashion opportunity for American baby namers. They're fresh-sounding ideas pre-vetted by thousands of other parents. What could be a more sincere recommendation than choosing the name for your own child?
All of the names below are British hits that could stand out on your U.S. playground. The numbers indicate each name's current ranking among all girls' names in England and Wales.
Old-Time Ladies
These dignified ladies may seem a little stiff for a toddler, but they're full of nickname possibilities.
Beatrice (95)
Edith (164)
Florence (29)
Georgina (173)
Harriet (63)
Imogen (34)
Lois (137)
Matilda (36)
Old-Time Cuties
U.S. parents have embraced a few sweet old nicknames, like Molly and Sadie. British parents have dived head-first into the cute end of the pool.
Elsie (47)
Frankie (195)
Libby (127)
Lottie (104)
Maisie (41)
Millie (25)
Poppy (7)
Tilly (86)
Celtic Accent
U.S. parents love Celtic boys' names like Liam, Aidan and Declan, but have been slower to pick up on Celtic options for girls.
Aoife (192)
Ffion (270, but #24 in Wales)
Isla (5)
Niamh (90)
Orla (132)
Seren (109)
Generational Limbo
These names peaked in the 1930s-1960s in the U.S. Could they be ready for a second look?
Betsy (151)
Connie (149)
Heidi (99)
Holly (33)
Nancy (111)
What's Stopping You?
And finally, a group of names with full fashion potential that just haven't managed to cross the pond.
Elodie (194)
Esme (58)
Freya (20)
Pippa (184)
Thea (121)
Zara (70)
