Baby name digest: vintage charm, tricky sounds and crime-inspired choices

This week in the world of baby names has been full of surprises — from old-school classics making a comeback to unexpected influences from pop culture and true-crime. Here are the highlights:

Vintage names are shining again

Across the US and beyond, parents are turning back to elegant, time-tested names like Eleanor, Theodore, Hazel, Matilda, Beatrice, Henry and Louis. These names are loved for their timeless grace and sense of history — a trend that resonates with families looking for depth rather than flashiness.

When a name challenges speech

Speech therapists are pointing out that certain names, though beautiful, can be hard for young children to pronounce. Names like Rory, Rowan and Aurora involve tricky combinations of sounds that may cause frustration in early years. It’s a reminder that picking a name isn’t just about style, but also about how easily little ones will say (and hear) it.

The dark side of naming

A surprising trend in the UK shows parents leaning towards names linked to infamous figures from true-crime stories. Names such as Ted (Bundy) or Anna (Delvey) are rising in use — not because parents admire the people, but because true-crime culture has seeped into everyday life through streaming and podcasts. Experts warn it’s a trend that may not age well.

Australia: from Atticus to Aquaman

Here at home, Australian parents are mixing vintage charm with bold creativity. Names like Atticus and Florence are enjoying a literary revival, while unusual choices such as Oleander, Silhouette and Allyra show the influence of aesthetics and social media. At the other end of the spectrum, pop-culture references like Aquaman are also sneaking into birth certificates, proving once again that names have become a form of personal branding.