There’s an undeniable allure to the sparkle of Old Hollywood. Perhaps it’s the polished elegance that surrounded those stars, while I often find myself in cozy sweatpants, reminiscing about that glamorous time. Even with all the fashion tricks at my disposal, nothing can replicate the charm of that era.
This list of baby names captures the vintage glamour of the iconic figures from Old Hollywood. These names not only embody the chic essence of their time but are also making a notable resurgence in popularity. If you’re a fan of sophisticated and stylish names, you’ll appreciate these vintage options inspired by legendary entertainers and activists from the past.
- Harlow
This name works for any gender and pays homage to the famed actress of the 1930s, Jean Harlow, known for her striking platinum locks and captivating screen presence. - Greta
Once known as Greta Lovisa Gustafsson, the Swedish actress Greta Garbo earned three Academy Award nominations. Today, the name is enjoying a revival, thanks to environmental advocate Greta Thunberg. - Bette
A nod to the versatile Elizabeth, this name is famously linked to actress Bette Davis, who had a remarkable six-decade career and made her mark with over 100 films to her credit. - Ingrid
Ingrid Bergman is celebrated for her talent, winning three Academy Awards among many other accolades throughout her illustrious career. - Marlene
Born Marie Magdalene Dietrich, this German-American actress became a global icon with her nickname that signifies her unique persona. - Hedy
Short for Hedwig, Hedy Lamarr was not only a stunning actress but also a brilliant inventor whose work laid the groundwork for modern communication technologies like WiFi and GPS. - Billie
With Billie Eilish’s rise in popularity, this name is set to soar. It also honors the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, who left a lasting impact on music. - Josephine
Josephine Baker defied the odds, rising from rejection to become an influential performer and civil rights advocate, famously adopting twelve children along the way. - Tallulah
Tallulah Bankhead was renowned for her theatrical performances and equally captivating off-stage persona, known for her sharp wit and unconventional lifestyle. - Lana
Julia Jean Mildred Francis Turner, better known as Lana Turner, was a leading lady of Hollywood, while Lena Horne shared a similar legacy in music and activism. - Greer
Once a surname, Greer became a first name thanks to actress Greer Garson, who was a major box-office draw in the 1940s. - Sidney
Sidney Poitier broke barriers as the first Black man to win an Academy Award, using his platform to advocate for civil rights throughout his career. - Cary
Cary Grant, the quintessential leading man of Hollywood, enjoyed a celebrated career, and his birth name is making a comeback through its diminutive, Archie. - Valentino
Rudolph Valentino was the epitome of the “Latin lover,” and while his full name is a mouthful, Valentino itself offers charming nicknames. - Cooper
Gary Cooper was a formidable actor in Westerns, and while his first name is less common today, Cooper remains a trendy choice for boys. - Orson
Orson Welles was a groundbreaking director and actor, known for creating Citizen Kane, which is still heralded as one of the greatest films ever made. - Spencer
Spencer Tracy was a beloved actor and the first to win consecutive Oscars, and this name has maintained its popularity through the years. - Hudson
Rock Hudson, born Roy Harold Scherer, Jr., became a Hollywood heartthrob, while the name Hudson continues to thrive in modern baby name trends. - Gene
Famed for his dance moves, Gene Kelly remains a staple in film history, while Gene Tierney is remembered as one of cinema’s most beautiful actresses. - Gregory
Gregory Peck was acclaimed for his performances and his advocacy for civil rights, making this name a timeless choice.
These names reflect the timeless elegance of the stars from yesteryear, offering a sophisticated option for today’s parents. They remind us of a level of class and grace that’s often missing in the current landscape of celebrity culture. For more baby name inspiration, including unique lists and meanings, be sure to check out our other posts, like this one.
Summary: Dive into the world of glamorous vintage baby names inspired by Old Hollywood icons. From the chic Harlow to the captivating Greta, these names are not only stylish but also making a comeback. Each name tells a story of elegance, talent, and resilience, perfect for the modern parent seeking something timeless.