Names like Hazel, Josephine, and Clara could easily belong to your grandmother or the future kindergarten class of 2036. The “Hundred Year Rule” suggests they might just be both! This intriguing theory, which has been observed since medieval times, indicates that names can fall out of favor for decades only to reemerge about a century after their initial peak.
To validate this idea, let’s explore some vintage names that were quite popular a hundred years ago and are now enjoying a revival in popularity. We’re focusing on girls’ names since boys’ names tend to have more consistent trends — aside from a few exceptions like Noah and Elijah. While our lives may differ greatly from those of a century ago (hello, internet!), some names have remained timeless.
Classic Names Making a Comeback
Frances
Once ranked #9 in 1923, Frances is currently climbing back to popularity at #438, having previously dipped to #828 in 2007. This name, famously borne by actress Judy Garland, offers charming nicknames like Frannie and Frankie.
Evelyn
Originally #11 in 1923, Evelyn now holds the #9 spot and has rebounded from a low of #288 in 1980. Interestingly, this name was initially male! Variations like Aveline (French) and Eibhlín (Irish) add to its allure.
Annie
At #35 in 1923, Annie is now at #297, bouncing back from a low of #441 in 1970. Though it’s a diminutive of Anne, Annie has established its own popularity thanks to iconic figures like sharpshooter Annie Oakley and singer Annie Lennox.
Josephine
This name ranked #26 a century ago and is now positioned at #107, recovering from a low of #498 in 1970. It offers the glam of actress Josephine Baker, while nicknames like Jo, Joey, and Josie make it appealing for all genders.
Clara
With its historical roots at #43 in 1923, Clara now stands at #96, having rebounded from a low of #593 in 1978. Its earlier popularity was likely influenced by silent film star Clara Bow, known as “The ‘It’ Girl.”
Elsie
Once at #47, Elsie is now at #301, after dipping to #944 in 1972. This name is a charming nickname for Elspeth, the Scottish variant of Elizabeth.
Vivian
Ranked #72 in 1923, Vivian is currently at #97 after rising from a low of #536 in 1981. Surprisingly, it was once used for boys too, but most associate it with actress Vivien Leigh from Gone with the Wind.
Hazel
This nature-inspired name went from #32 in 1923 to #43 today, rebounding from a low of #943 in 1998. It embodies the charm of vintage floral names and symbolizes creativity.
Ruby
Formerly #24, Ruby is now at #79, recovering from a low of #401 in 1986. This name, associated with both color and gemstone, reflects the era’s trend of naming daughters after precious stones.
Dorothy
Ranked #3 in 1923, Dorothy has slipped to #601, but is making a comeback from a low of #982 in 2006. With memorable cultural references, this name can be shortened to Dot, Dottie, or Dolly.
Names That Might Be Next
Now, turning to names that may be on the brink of becoming trendy again. Following the Hundred Year Rule, here are some names that were popular in the top 100 girls’ names of 1925:
Betty
Once #3 in 1925, Betty has vanished from the charts since 1996. With cultural icons like Betty White, this name is ripe for a resurgence.
Helen
Ranking #4 in 1925, Helen is currently #418. It has consistently been in the top 1,000 since 1900 and could be poised for a return to the limelight.
Mildred
At #9 in 1925, Mildred has not appeared on the charts since 1984. With a cute nickname like Millie, this name offers gentle strength.
Florence
This name was #24 in 1925 and is currently lingering at #980. It has gained popularity in the U.K. and could soon do the same in the U.S.
Gladys
Once ranked #33, Gladys has dropped off the charts since 1999. Its Welsh origin gives it a unique twist, and it’s likely to shine again soon.
Pauline
Having been #38 in 1925, Pauline left the charts after 1997. Its vintage charm and connection to pop culture could spark renewed interest.
Thelma
At #35 in 1925, Thelma has not been popular since 1982. Its literary roots might make it a candidate for revival alongside its counterpart Louise.
Bernice
Once #46, Bernice has been absent since 1984. With royal roots from ancient Egypt, it’s a name waiting to be rediscovered.
Geraldine
Ranked #54 in 1925, Geraldine dropped off after 2012. Its brief resurgence in the 1980s may hint at future popularity.
Alma
This name ranked #94 in 1925 and is currently #643. Meaning “soul” in Spanish, Alma has a nurturing quality that could appeal to modern parents.
While names like Mildred and Geraldine might seem outdated, much like fashion trends, vintage names are making a grand return. Just as we see styles from the ’90s coming back, expect to hear these names resurface soon.
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In summary, vintage names are making a comeback, influenced by the cyclical nature of trends. From Frances and Evelyn to the potential resurgence of Betty and Helen, these classic names are poised to charm a new generation.