Baby Name Trends: The Top Baby Names of 2023

Baby name trends for 2023 reflect a palpable shift in mood, style and identity born of the seismic events of the past few years.

This is more than just a “vibe shift” of the kind that comes around every decade or so – although the inevitable onward march of fashion certainly plays a part.

Read on for 5 key baby name trends we’re watching for 2023 and the top 2023 names that exemplify them courtesy of Nameberry. 

1. Maximalist Names

The old adage that “less is more” has lost its luster, and more is back to being more!. 

Opulence, decadence and drama are highly attractive to the new parents of 2023, after years of restraint  with the impact of the pandemic restrictions.

Maximalist names hail from myth and legend, from history and fantasy, from literature and anime. But they are united by their strong sounds, gravitas, and confident main character energy.

Best Maximalist Names

Octavius
Wednesday
Zebedee
Venus
Wolfgang
Esmeray

2. Names So Out They’re In

Call it the Stranger Things effect. 2022 has given us the return of the mullet, Kate Bush back at #1, and nostalgic 80s clothing and makeup styles trending.

We predict that 2023 will see the start of a revival of 80s inspired names by ahead-of-the-curve admirers of this retro style.

Jeanie 
Laurel
Todd
Penny
Ferris
Chrissy

 3. Gilded Names

The future’s golden! Shimmering, shining, gilded names are shaping up to be one of the top trends of 2023. Parents are actively seeking names that feel bright, luxurious and optimistic.

Names of Gold

Aura
Suvi
Apollo
Orla
Helios
Lucien

4. Traveling Lite Names

Until recently, parents searching for cross-cultural baby names tended to turn to the classics. Options like Anna or Leo might not be unique, but they’re instantly recognisable and pronounceable in many different languages.

But today’s parents aren’t willing to sacrifice individuality in pursuit of international appeal.

The coolest new cross-cultural names are fresh, funky and light. Chameleon-like, they travel seamlessly between languages and cultures without feeling too strongly tied to any in particular.

Leni
Mimi
Kiki
Joni
Indi
Rafi
Xavi

5. Grandpa Names for Girls

Bye bye, Elsie. Hello, Ozzie! One of the most fun trends we see emerging into 2023 is a whole club of so-clunky-they’re-cute grandpa names on the rise… for baby girls.

Short and often nicknamey, these new old names feel sweet and in-step with the current fashion for all things retro and vintage, yet still a little edgy and subversive.

Andie
Frankie
Drew
Georgie
Gene
August
Billie