Parents these days are looking for unique and cute girl names that sound different and have some personal significance.
A few trendy and unique cute girl names that are very much in style these days are Aria, Luna, and Isla. These are all sweet-sounding names but have a cool edge to them at the same time.
Parents looking for cute and unique names for their daughters might also like unique names like Zuri, Elara, and Nyla.
In this article, we will discuss trendy and unique cute girl names, meanings, significance, noticeable bearers of the names, and how to choose the perfect cute name for your baby girl.
Aurelia
Latin in origin, Aurelia means “the golden one.” It was derived from the ancient Roman surname Aurelius, which was used for a person with golden or blonde hair.
The name has recently been making a comeback after many decades of being absent from the US Top 1000. Aurelia is also the name of Julius Caesar’s mother.
Freya
Freya is an Old Norse name meaning “lady” or “noble woman.” It was the name of the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. Freya is a strong and stately choice with a long history. It has become extremely popular in the UK and is starting to grow in popularity in the US.
A number of Freyas are in Joseph Conrad’s novel Freya of the Seven Isles.
Elodie
A lyrical French and German name meaning “foreign riches.” It has been used in French-speaking countries for years and is now rising in popularity in the US.
It can be traced back to the name of Saint Alodia, a child martyr in 9th-century Spain. Elodie is used in Émile Zola’s The Earth. It also features in video games like Long Live the Queen. It’s a melodic and interesting alternative to Melody or Eleanor.
Maisie
A Scottish diminutive of Margaret or Mary, Maisie means “pearl” or “bitter.” It has skyrocketed in modern popularity thanks to Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams.
The name has a magical sound to it and is extremely popular in English-speaking countries. It is in the Top 100 in the UK.
Elsie
A sweet, vintage name meaning “pledged to God.” Elsie has Scottish origins and is quickly becoming a modern favorite in the US and UK after a long absence. Elsie was originally a diminutive of Elizabeth but now stands on its own and sounds fresh.
It has been used by celebrities like James Morrison and Ioan Gruffudd.
Juniper
Juniper is a fresh-sounding nature name that means “young” and refers to the evergreen shrub of the same name.
There was also a Saint Juniper, a friend of St. Francis of Assisi, and the name also appears in biblical and Renaissance texts. The Donovan song “Jennifer Juniper” and Margaret Wise Brown’s pen name Juniper Sage also make it a name with more recent cultural references.
A new entry in the US Top 1000 in 2011, Juniper is now a favored botanical name.
Wren
Meaning “small bird” in English, this one-ounce name is a tiny but powerful choice with a soft, poetic feel. In Irish folklore, the wren was the “magician of the birds,” and wren-tapping, a custom from the winter solstice, was thought to help find a lost item and tell the future.
It has been rising steadily in popularity since it first reached the Top 1000 in 2012, and has been used as a first name and a middle name. The name can also refer to Sir Christopher Wren, a British architect who designed St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
Chloe
This sweet-sounding Greek name means “young green shoot” and refers to fresh growth or new beginnings. In Greek mythology, Chloe was an alternate name for Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and grain.
A mainstay in the Top 1000 since the late 1800s, Chloe is still ranked in the US Top 30 and is a perennial favorite worldwide. Appearances in literature and poetry include the Daphnis and Chloe.
Sophie
The French diminutive of Sophia, Sophie means “wisdom” and has been borne by many European royals, such as Sophie of Thuringia and Sophie, Duchess of Wessex. Sophie is a favorite given name for princesses today and was chosen for Princess Sophie of Greece in 1966.
The name is seen as more playful and down-to-earth than the stiffer Sophia. Literary and royal name checks include novelist Sophie Zawistowska and actress Sophie Turner.
Molly
This ancient Hebrew name means “bitter,” “beloved,” and has been around for centuries. Molly was traditionally a diminutive of Mary, but in the 20th century, the name evolved into a name in its own right.
Irish Molly has also been immortalized in the folk song “Sweet Molly Malone.” Molly appears in literary classics like James Joyce’s Ulysses (Molly Bloom) and is the nickname for Molly Pitcher, the Revolutionary War heroine.
Naomi
Naomi has Hebrew and Japanese origins and means “pleasantness” or “beautiful.” It is a name from the Old Testament of the Bible, borne by Ruth’s mother-in-law.
Naomi is also a unisex Japanese name meaning “straight and beautiful.” In recent years, Naomi has become more popular, perhaps due to Naomi Campbell and Naomi Watts.
Poppy
Bold and fiery, Poppy is a happy and spunky name that means “red flower.” It has been popular in the UK and is starting to gain traction in the US. A very modern name with a retro feel, it is the latest in edible or botanical flower names for girls.
The bright red poppy flower is associated with Remembrance Day in November and makes a fun name for a redheaded girl. Jamie Oliver and Anna Paquin both chose the name for their daughters. Other flower names that share Poppy’s vibrant feel include Petal, Posey, and Piper.
Lottie
An old-fashioned English name with surprising meaning: “free man.” Lottie was on the Top 100 list in the late 1800s but disappeared from the charts in 1960. In recent years, Lottie has made a comeback in the US and the UK.
Lottie works as an independent name and is also recognized as a shorter form of Charlotte. In England and Wales, Lottie is in the Top 100 list.
Lottie can be found in literature and film from such classics as The Little Princess to The Princess and the Frog.
Evie
A cute nickname for Evangeline, Evelyn, and Genevieve, Evie is also a name on its own. A diminutive of Eve, its roots trace to the Hebrew name Chawwah, meaning “life.”
Evie pops up in media as well, including as the name of Descendants villain-turned-heroine Princess Evie and the Natalie Portman character in V for Vendetta.
Hattie
Meaning “estate ruler,” Hattie was a Top 50 name in the US between 1880 and 1900 but is now more popular as a nickname for Harriet. It’s made a comeback in recent years as a given name, climbing the charts since 2011.
Vintage yet fresh, Hattie is a great pick alongside names like Lottie and Millie.
Lola
Meaning “lady of sorrows” in Spanish, Lola is a sassily fun choice. It’s been chosen by celebrity moms Kelly Ripa, Lisa Bonet, and Madonna. Old Hollywood stars like courtesan Lola Montez helped make the name well-known, as did the wild femme fatale played by Marlene Dietrich in The Blue Angel, where she was named Lola Lola.
Used all over the world, it’s familiar but not too common, so Lola will always feel spunky and fresh.
Isadora
A Greek name meaning “gift of Isis,” Isadora makes a great alternative to Isabella. It is often associated with tragic dancer Isadora Duncan, who was murdered by her lover, but it also has a literary feel and has been used by writers, including in the novel Fear of Flying as the name of the protagonist, Isadora Wing.
The playful and quirky name Isadora stands apart as Izzy among common Isabelle variations.
Birdie
A vintage English name meaning “bird,” Birdie has a sweetly modern feel. At one time a Top 200 name in the 1880s, Birdie has reappeared on the charts in recent years, and has been used by celebrities like Busy Philipps and Maura West.
Inspired by former first lady Lady Bird Johnson, Birdie is one of several vintage bird-inspired names, like Hattie and Millie. Its simple nature-based feel and adorable retro vibe have made it a recent chart-topper.
Ellie
Meaning “bright shining one,” Ellie began as a nickname for Eleanor, Elizabeth, and similar names but has gone on to stand on its own. Ellie is frequently used in media. So popular and versatile is Ellie that it’s unlikely to ever go out of style, though some may choose less common Elly or Elli as a variation.
Bonnie
Meaning “beautiful” or “cheerful,” this Scottish name has a natural loveliness all its own. Popular in the UK (inside the Top 100), Bonnie is also familiar to US audiences from Gone with the Wind and Bonnie and Clyde, thanks to the exploits of outlaw Bonnie Parker.
Drawing from the French bonne, Bonnie has a simple cheerfulness that’s endearing to parents today.
Harriet
The English and French Harriet means “estate ruler” and is familiar enough, thanks to historical figures like Harriet Tubman and Harriet Beecher Stowe, as well as the literary character Harriet the Spy.
While it’s been popular in England for years, Harriet hasn’t charted in the US since 1970, making it a rare choice that’s ready for revival.
Nancy
Meaning “grace,” Nancy was a medieval nickname of Annis, a pet form of Agnes. An independent Nancy first appeared in the 18th century and it went on to reach the US Top 10 in the mid-20th century.
Rosie
Rosie is an English name meaning “rose.” It’s been a nickname and an independent name since the 1940s. Rosie fell out of favor in the US decades ago, but recently returned to the Top 1000 in 2013.
Rosie is known for its cultural references in films and literature, such as The Lord of the Rings and The Rosie Project.
Edie
Edie is an English name meaning “prosperous in war.” It’s an adorable and shortened version of Edith. Edie remains popular in the UK, currently ranking just outside the Top 100.
Edie has been chosen by celebrities Keira Knightley and Samantha Morton for their daughters.
Maggie
Maggie is a sweet and earthy name of Scottish origin that means “pearl.” It’s often used as a nickname for Margaret, but is increasingly a stand-alone choice.
Famous Maggie’s include actress Maggie Gyllenhaal and the late British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher (often called Maggie).
Annie
Since the 19th century Annie has been a commonly used English name that means “grace.” It’s known for its cheerful sound and its connections to optimism.
It remains popular today, but often in combination with more formal or expanded forms, like Anne or Annabelle.
Pippa
Pippa is a spunky and cheerful English name that means “lover of horses.” It’s the diminutive form of Philippa and gained recent attention through Kate Middleton’s sister, Pippa.
While a fan favorite in the UK, Pippa is not very common in the US and would be a more unusual choice.
Marnie
Meaning “of the sea,” Marnie is the female form of Marina. Marnie may be known to some for the Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name, but was thrust back into the limelight when British singer Lily Allen used it for her daughter.
A unique mix of retro and modern, Marnie has a sophisticated, stylish edge and is a current favorite in the UK.
Nellie
Meaning “horn” or “sun ray,” Nellie is a playful nickname that’s decidedly vintage. The name was quite popular in the late 19th century, and has since maintained a cheerful, old-fashioned charm.
A great choice for parents who love bright, spirited nicknames with a fresh feel.
Bea
Meaning “she who brings happiness” or “blessed,” Bea is a cute Latin name that is both vintage and modern. It’s often used as a nickname or diminutive for Beatrice or Beatrix, but can also stand alone.
Notable Bea’s include actress Bea Arthur and singer Bea Miller.
Meadow
A nature name of British origin, Meadow means “grass” or “vegetation.” Meadow is more common today than it’s been in decades, and is on the rise. The name is in line with the current interest in pastoral and botanic names, like Hazel, Olive, and Willow.
Meadow also has a very peaceful vibe, which can be hard to find in modern names.
Zoey
Zoey is a Greek name meaning “life” and is a more modern variation of Zoe. The name has seen widespread use in the US. It has a more spunky, tomboyish feel than Zoe, and has a number of cultural and historical ties.
Kiki
Meaning “double happiness,” Kiki is a French nickname with ties to Japanese culture as well. The name has a somewhat bohemian, artistic vibe and works well for creative types.
The name is often used as a nickname for Katherine, Christina, or Kayla.
Polly
Meaning “star of the sea” or “beloved,” Polly is a peppy alternative to the more common Molly. Polly remains a rare name today but maintains its vintage appeal while presenting a strong potential for resurgence.
Josie
Meaning “Jehovah increases,” Josie is a bright and jaunty nickname. Josie is the most fashionable short form of Josephine. This short and cute name has been consistently popular since records began.
Pia
Pia is a soft and elegant name of Latin origin meaning “pious” or “reverent.” The name is popular in both European and Hindi cultures. Pia is known for its global appeal, and has a nice, understated feel.
Hermione
Originating from Greek mythology, Hermione means “messenger” or “earthly.” The name saw renewed interest through Harry Potter’s Hermione Granger, and has since been a common, modern choice.
Hermione was also the name of Menelaus’ daughter in Greek mythology.
Gigi
Gigi is a French name meaning “earth worker” that is fun and chic. Gigi is most often used as a nickname or shortened form of names like Georgiana, Gabrielle, or Genevieve.
Gigi has a nice, high-low balance that is stylish but also down-to-earth.
Wendy
Meaning “friend” or “white,” Wendy was made popular by J.M. Barrie’s heroine in Peter Pan. Wendy reached its peak in the mid-20th century and has been on the decline ever since.
Wendy also likely comes from the Welsh name Gwendolen. Wendy may be due for a retro-chic revival, and it pairs nicely with other vintage nicknames that are gaining popularity.
Cece
A bubbly nickname that comes from the Latin name Cecilia meaning “blind,” Cece is a charming and playful name. It can be used on its own or as a nickname for several other names, like Cecelia, Celeste, Catherine, or many others.
Cece is also part of the recent trend for short, spunky nicknames that sound cute but can work for an adult, like Coco or Lulu.
Honey
A British term of endearment, Honey has a nice balance of sweetness and uniqueness. Celebrities Kate Winslet and Jamie Oliver both used the name for their children, which helped with its modern appeal.
The name is still rare in the US, but is on the rise in the UK. A great choice for parents who love nicknames or British names, Honey also works well as a middle name.
Kitty
A vintage nickname meaning “pure,” Kitty is an English name for Katherine that’s a strong favorite in the UK. The name has a number of famous literary and pop culture ties, from Kitty Bennet in Pride and Prejudice to X-Men character Kitty Pryde.
Kitty also feels soft and cozy, and works really well with today’s top baby names.
Indie
Indie means “independent” and is a fresh and spirited name. It’s most often used as a nickname or diminutive of names like India, Indigo, or Indiana. Indie has risen rapidly in popularity, currently ranking as one of the Top 10 in Wales.
Indie would be a modern favorite for free-spirited parents.
Dottie
An English name meaning “gift of God,” Dottie is a retro nickname for Dorothy that’s seeing a revival. Most famously associated with country singer Dottie West, it also appeared as the character Dottie Hinson in A League of Their Own.
Dottie presents a unique and offbeat vibe compared to other vintage nicknames that have recently regained popularity.
Nixie
This German name means “water nymph” and is tied to folklore about shapeshifting sprites living in rivers. Nixie offers a fresh alternative to Dixie or Pixie. Perfect for parents who love names with a strong nature theme or mythology tie, Nixie is a fun and feisty choice.
Dottie presents a unique and offbeat vibe compared to other vintage nicknames that have recently regained popularity.
Zadie
Meaning “princess,” Zadie is a fun nickname that can replace Sadie. It also has a vintage history and has appeared on the US Top 1000 charts since the late 1800s. Thanks to British novelist Zadie Smith, the name is bold, modern, and chic.
Lula
Originating in England, the name Lula can mean “famous warrior” or “waterfall.” It was a Top 50 name in the late 19th century, but it’s a bubbly vintage gem that is rising in popularity.
It can also work as a nickname for Talula, Lucy, or Louise,
Penny
Penny is a Greek name meaning “weaver.” While it is a common nickname for Penelope, it has been charming enough to stand on its own as well. Actress Penny Lane gave the name popularity after it reappeared on the US charts in 2013, helped in part by The Big Bang Theory.
Tillie
A vintage nickname name that means “battle mighty,” Tillie is sweet and sassy with a lively feeling. It is used more in the UK where it is in the Top 100, but it could be a good choice for American parents as well.
If you’re drawn to retro nicknames like Milly and Lottie, Tillie might be the answer.
Trixie
Trixie is a feisty Latin name meaning “she who brings happiness.” It is a nickname for Beatrix, but can be used as a stand-alone name. Trixie makes an excellent choice for those who enjoy distinctive and playful nicknames.
Peggy
The name Peggy which means “pearl” has seen renewed interest due to Peggy Olson from Mad Men and jazz singer Peggy Lee. While it was often used as a nickname for Margaret in the early 1900s, it has been used on its own since the 18th century.
Mimi
A nickname name that means everything from “sea of bitterness” to “wonderful” or “loveliness,” depending on the language and origin of the name. People don’t typically use this name by itself but it serves as a nickname for Miriam, Maria, Mary, Amelia or Emily.
Dixie
Meaning “I have spoken” or “tenth,” Dixie is a bubbly name with a complicated past that may turn off some modern parents. Dixie made it big in the 1930s but has negative associations with that time period in the US. It is not a common name, but some parents use Dixie as a retro throwback.
Gracie
Latin for “favor” or “blessing,” Gracie is a bubbly, winsome alternative to Grace. Faith Hill and Tim McGraw both named their daughters Gracie, and it’s a darling pop-culture mainstay, from Miss Congeniality to The Nanny.
Winnie
Meaning “holy peacemaking” or “gentle friend,” Winnie is a friendly, cuddly vintage name. It’s traditionally a nickname for Winifred, Gwendolyn, or Edwina, but now works perfectly on its own.
Winnie the Pooh, Winnie Mandela, and The Wonder Years’ Winnie Cooper are some of this beloved name’s literary and pop culture bearers.
Hallie
Meaning “dweller at the meadow by the manor,” Hallie is a soft nickname name. Pronounced like “alley” (rhymes with Haley), Hallie is distinct from Halle or Hailey. The name has been in steady use since the 1980s, with a dated feel that’s more retro-cool.
Everly
Inspired by nature, Everly means “wild boar in woodland clearing.”
With its combination of earthy strength and elegance, this unique name is a surprising new favorite for parents who love modern, yet feminine and fresh names.
Remi
Meaning “oarsman,” Remi is a sleek, stylish gender-neutral name. Of French origin, it has been one of the most popular names for both boys and girls in France.
Smooth and contemporary, Remi is a unique name that’s all grown up.
Darcy
Meaning “dark one” or “from Arcy,” Darcy is an Irish and French unisex nickname name. Darcy is associated with the literary hero Mr. Darcy of Pride and Prejudice, but has been a fairly popular boys name in the UK for years.
Darcy works beautifully for any gender and is perfect for a dark-haired child or baby born at night.
Kit
Meaning “pure,” Kit is a crisp, modern nickname name that’s wearable on its own. Kit was once a common diminutive for Katherine or Christopher, but now is popular for all genders on its own.
Kit’s iconic bearers have ranged from the intrepid Kit Carson to Game of Thrones’ Kit Harington to Star Wars’ Kit Fisto.
Rory
Originating in Ireland, Rory means “red king.” Bright and spirited, it’s the perfect name for a little firecracker. A traditional boy’s name, Rory is increasing in popularity for girls in the US, where it’s often used as a nickname for Aurora.
Madison
Madison, which means “son of Matthew,” became famous as a girls’ name after a fictional mermaid chose it in the 1984 movie Splash. It went from a surname to a modern classic and, with the nickname Maddy, has been a perennial favorite.
Short and sophisticated, Madison has a preppy, trendy vibe.
Jude
Jude is a Hebrew name meaning “praised” and a modern new choice for both girls and boys. It has been a boys’ name for decades due to Jude Law and the Beatles song Hey Jude.
However, it also makes an edgy substitute for Judy or Judith and has been popularized for girls in recent years.
Ginger
Ginger is a nickname for girls with red hair or a diminutive of Virginia. This name either means “root” or “liveliness” and widely represents the spicy root that adds zest to culinary dishes.
If you have a fiery redhead or a peppy, bubbly baby on your hands, Ginger will be a great choice.
Ari
Ari is a Hebrew name meaning “lion of God” and is a growing unisex choice. It’s a strong, short name that’s often a nickname or diminutive for Ariel, Ariana, or Arya.
It’s simple, punchy, and easy to pronounce in any language, and it’s becoming popular with parents looking for short, modern names.
Demi
Demi means “half” or “small” in French and Greek, and actress Demi Moore helped popularize it as a girls’ name.
Demi was popular for a short time as a celebrity name and is now on its own. It’s short and stylish, perfect for modern parents searching for a name with international flair.
Pepper
Inspired by the hot spice, Pepper is a fiery, spunky name. Pepper is often used in TV and films, most recently for Pepper Potts in the Iron Man films. Pepper is on-trend with botanical and nature-inspired names, like Sage and Saffron.
It’s a fun and unusual name for parents searching for something memorable and a bit offbeat.
Ollie
Ollie, which means “olive tree,” is a common nickname for Olivia or Olive but is also popular as a stand-alone name.
It’s a cute and playful name with an old-timey sound and has been a top 100 name for girls in the past and works perfectly as a modern short and sweet, nickname-style name like Ellie and Millie.
We’ve reached the end of our list of cute baby girl names. I hope you would love these names.
Happy Name Hunting!
