As we move further into the 21st century, a powerful wave of nostalgia is shaping the choices of expecting parents. A new forecast suggests that in 2026, retro monikers and names inspired by rustic farm life will dominate the nursery, as families seek warmth and personality over formality.
The Vintage Revival: Nicknames with History
According to a detailed study from the mother and baby boutique JoJo Maman Bébé, names that were popular in the 1940s and 50s are making a significant comeback. Naming expert Colleen Slagen, who contributed to the report, notes that parents are increasingly drawn to vintage nicknames that feel unique yet rooted.
She explains that today's mothers and fathers are less concerned with so-called "resume names" and prefer to choose what they actually plan to call their child. This trend sees a rise in affectionate, shortened forms. For girls, names like Lettie (often from Letitia), Minnie (traditionally from Wilhelmina), and Goldie are predicted to be popular. For boys, Archie, Cal, Kit, and Louie are set for a revival.
The influence of pop culture remains strong, with casual, cool nicknames feeling modern. The report suggests Rocky and Ozzy could see increased use, the latter potentially in tribute to the late rock legend Ozzy Osbourne.
Beyond Binary and Back to Nature
The nostalgic trend is balanced by a modern desire for flexibility. The report highlights a growing appetite for gender-neutral names such as Frankie, Dylan, Drew, Scottie, and Benny/Bennie.
Perhaps as a reaction to an increasingly digital and tech-driven world, there is also a pronounced shift towards nature. Dubbed 'granola names', this category includes choices that are "nature inspired, with rustic and earthy feels". These range from the literal—like Coast, Fox, Dove, and Stone—to the more evocative, such as Sunny. Flora and fauna provide further inspiration, with Juniper, Cherry, Oak, and Fern highlighted as popular new picks.
"Nature names continue to rise as parents are more drawn to names that reflect their values and evoke vivid and appealing imagery," Colleen Slagen stated. She added that many of these names feel contemporary and unique while remaining phonetic and easy to spell.
The Cosy Appeal of Farm-to-Cradle
Another key trend identified for 2026 revolves around "cosy and storybook-like" names that conjure up idyllic, wholesome imagery. This 'farm-to-cradle' or 'cottage-core' aesthetic is driving interest in charming, irresistibly cute options.
For baby girls, the report lists Hattie, Elsie, Flora, Willa, and Edie. For boys, the cosy, vintage feel extends to Percy, Sonny, Augustin, Franklin, and Winston. These names tap into a broader desire for comfort, tradition, and a simpler, more grounded identity for the next generation.
In summary, the baby naming landscape of 2026 looks set to be defined by a blend of affectionate history, natural simplicity, and flexible modernity, offering a rich palette of choices for UK parents.
