These Girl Names Were Once Popular, But Are Now Nearly Out of Fashion
Names change with time. What was trendy ten or twenty years ago can now sound a bit old-fashioned or simply less popular.
This is especially true for girl names. Previously, parents often opted for certain names that were extremely popular, but today, those same names are heard much less often.
In this article, we look at girls' names that were once extremely popular, but are now almost out of fashion. We also explore the striking trend towards increasingly unique names and give plenty of examples. This gives you a clear picture of how name trends develop.
Why Do Name Trends Change So Quickly?
Names often reflect the spirit of the times. What once sounded modern and fresh can feel outdated after a few decades. Parents are also influenced by popular culture, celebrities, television, and film, and by their desire to give a unique name that doesn’t appear everywhere. This leads to continuously shifting preferences for girls’ names.
Girl Names That Used to Be Popular
In the 1980s and 1990s, certain girls' names were heard everywhere. Many girls at that time were named:
- Femke
- Kim
- Anouk
- Saskia
- Mariska
- Jolanda
- Chantal
- Sharon
- Monique
- Sanne
These names topped the popularity charts for years and were real classics of their time. Sometimes in schools, there were several girls with the same name. But as of 2025, you rarely hear these names among newborns. They are considered “out of fashion” or sometimes even "old-fashioned."
The Trend: More and More Unique and Distinctive Names
Nowadays, parents often opt for unique names that are less commonly found. The wish is clear: something special, something that stands out, something that isn’t “ordinary.” This is visible in the tremendous diversity of names currently in use. Popular choices now include:
- Luna
- Nova
- Mila
- Yara
- Nola
- Zoë
- Liva
- Elin
- Fay
- Noor
These names sound fresh, modern, and sometimes international. Parents also tend to pick more often names with a soft, melodious sound. Some come from other languages and cultures, bringing diversity.
More Examples of Unique Girl Names
In addition to the most popular unique names, you increasingly see original or lesser-known names popping up, such as:
- Ayla
- Jinthe
- Amaya
- Senna
- Liv
- Maud
- Elara
- Yfke
- Veerle
- Fiene
Some parents even choose invented names or variations on existing names to give something truly personal.
Why Are Parents Opting for Uniqueness?
Many parents want their child to stand out and not be “just another” with a common name. This may also be a reaction to previous generations, when names like Kim or Femke were very common.
Additionally, our increasingly international society plays a role: parents often prefer names that are easy to pronounce in other countries.
Old-Fashioned Names Slowly Disappearing
There are also names that you hear less and less, because they’re often associated with older generations. Think of:
- Ingrid
- Gerda
- Hilde
- Els
- Trudy
- Ria
- Marga
- Liesbeth
Many young parents no longer choose these names, as they sound old-fashioned. Nevertheless, some of these classic names are cherished by a small group of parents for their nostalgia and tradition.
Regional Differences in Name Preferences
In the Netherlands, name preferences vary by region. What’s popular in the Randstad may be completely different in the north or south. Some names remain locally popular, even if they’re out of fashion nationwide.
Tips for Choosing a Girl’s Name
When picking a name, consider what matters most to you. Do you want a modern-sounding name, or something timeless and classic? Should the name be easy to pronounce internationally, or is a typically Dutch name preferable? You can also check how popular a name currently is—do you want something unique, or something familiar?
Conclusion: Names Are Always Changing
The girls’ names that were once everywhere are now almost out of fashion. At the same time, there’s a strong trend toward unique, striking names that fit the modern era. Whether you choose a classic, modern, or very rare name, the most important thing is that the name feels right and suits your child.
Because of these developments, choosing a girls' name has never been more fun—or more challenging. And who knows? In a few years, a name that’s now out of fashion may return to popularity, because name trends are always evolving.
Original article source: Trendy Vandaag - Deze meisjesnamen waren ooit populair, maar nu bijna uit de mode