20 vintage baby names from the 1950s that are making a comeback in 2025

Selecting a name for your newborn is undoubtedly one of the most momentous choices a parent can make. Whether you lean towards traditional monikers or prefer something more distinctive, the task of naming your child is far from straightforward.

Over time, certain names have waxed and waned in popularity, often reflecting the zeitgeist of their peak decades. Yet, some names remain perennial favourites among UK families.

In recent times, there's been a noticeable resurgence in classic, vintage names harking back to the 1950s. These old-world names, embodying uniqueness, simplicity, or timelessness, continue to charm modern parents.

Good Housekeeping has compiled a list of the top 20 vintage names making a comeback this year.

Here are the top 20 vintage names now enjoying a revival: reports Nottinghamshire Live.

1. James - A timeless choice that remains highly popular, James was synonymous with the rebellious youth culture of the 50s, largely due to Rebel Without a Cause star James Dean.

2. Mary - The most favoured female name of the 50s, narrowly edging out Linda. One notable Mary from the era is Mary Blair, the artist who collaborated with Disney on Lady and the Tramp, Alice in Wonderland, and Cinderella.

3. The quintessentially classic American country and western moniker 'Michael' gained immense popularity, thanks in part to Michael Landon, the heartthrob of the 1959 cowboy epic Bonanza.

4. In the battle for the title of the most coveted name of the 1950s, Linda vied neck and neck with Mary for the top spot. While Mary ultimately reigned supreme, Linda remained a widely cherished choice that has stood the test of time.

5. The name Robert was all the rage among actors in the 1950s, with luminaries such as Robert Mitchum, Robert Taylor, and Robert Conrad bearing the name which signifies "bright fame," and indeed, it remains a favoured pick for boys even today.

6. Patricia carries a chic modern flair while retaining its vintage charm, undeniably one of the standout names of the 1950s. The name is frequently linked with Patricia Barry, the era's beloved actress known for her appearance on The Twilight Zone.

7. Far predating the 50s, John held the crown as the number one name between 1900 and 1923, maintaining colossal popularity ever since. Not only did it consistently rank in the top five annually from 1924 to 1972, but it also persists as a mainstay in today's top 30 list of baby names.

8. Throughout the 1950s, Susan saw a meteoric rise in favour for baby girls, emerging as a widely embraced name by 1960. It is often attributed to the decade's adoration for renowned actress Susan Hayward, contributing to the name's ascent.

9. David - Throughout the 1950s, David was a strong contender for the top spot of most popular names, often vying with Michael. It clinched the number one position in 1960 and remains a favourite today. While it now more commonly features in the top 30 rather than the top five, it continues to be a popular choice among families.

10. Deborah/Debra - Both Deborah and Debra were highly favoured names for girls during the 1950s. These variations of the same name were widely chosen by families throughout the decade and continue to hold appeal today, standing out as some of the more unique choices from that era.

11. William - The name William was a hit with parents in the 50s, often linked with American writers of the time such as William S. Burroughs and William Goldman. Still featuring in today's top 30 list, it's a versatile choice for families fond of nicknames like Will, Willy, Bill or Billy.

12. Barbara - Currently experiencing a swift revival, the name Barbara has leapt up 87 places on the list compared to the previous year, making it one of the fastest-growing baby names at present.

13. Richard - Associated with the popular musicians of the '50s, from composer Richard Rogers to rock-n-roll legend Little Richard, the name Richard reached its zenith towards the end of the decade. It continues to be well-liked today and is also appreciated for its associated nicknames - Richard, Ricky and Ricardo.

14. Thomas - The moniker Thomas hit its lowest popularity ranking in 2011 and 2012, coming in at 63rd place. Yet, this timeless name from the '50s, beloved for its variants like Tom and Tommy, seems to be making a steady comeback, poised to re-enter the top 10.

15. Karen - Currently enjoying a resurgence, Karen was a top pick in the '50s and has remained a consistent choice for families over the decades, despite some fluctuations in its ranking.

16. Mark - The name Mark remains a popular choice today, particularly among those seeking a chic, four-letter name. A favourite since the '50s, it has held its own on the popularity charts throughout the years.

17. Nancy - Nancy, a top girls' name from the '50s, continues to be a hit today, especially for those in search of a short and catchy name.

18. Charles - Despite its enduring popularity, Charles has seen a slight dip in the rankings since its heyday in 1929. However, the current reign of King Charles III could potentially give this classic name a boost.

19. Donna - The name Donna was ubiquitous in the '50s, most notably linked to Richie Valens's 1958 chart-topper 'Donna'. While it hasn't yet regained its former glory, it's gradually climbing back up the ranks as one of the 21st century's most popular girls' names.

20. The name Cynthia enjoyed a surge of popularity in the 20th century, particularly during the '50s and '60s. While it hasn't regained its former glory, there's been a gradual resurgence as families seek out more distinctive names from that period.