While the whole world seems to be romanticising their past lives, with social media calling 2026 the “new” 2016, so people are looking even further back for inspiration for baby names. Popular maternity and baby brand JoJo Maman Bébé recently teamed up with baby-naming expert Colleen Slagen, better known as @namingbebe, revealing their top predictions for naming trends that will appear in 2026.
The brand revealed that there will be a rise and return to vintage choices for little ones with a slight modern twist. Instead of traditional names, the vintage names will have a nickname style. For example, instead of Katherine, Colleen predicted that shortened names like Kitty, or Lettie instead of Letitia, will be on trend.
The expert also pointed to a rise in themes such as Cottage-core, a popular ethereal aesthetic that romanticises rural life, sustainable living, inspired by the quaint charm of the countryside, that centres around wildflowers, cosy homes, and a connection to nature. Colleen tipped names such as Edie, Hattie, Sonny, and Percy to be among popular choices.
Alongside the return to vintage names, the expert highlighted the theme of “granola baby” names, which is said to draw inspiration from nature, with a rustic and earthy feel. This can be seen in names such as Coast, Juniper, and Fern.
In an Instagram post from earlier this month, JoJo Maman Bébé wrote: “We’ve teamed up with @namingbebe to reveal their top predictions for baby naming trends in 2026!
“From vintage nickname styles to so-called ‘granola baby’ names, these are the names and themes set to emerge (or make a comeback) for the newest arrivals in 2026.”
Find the full list of vintage baby name predictions for 2026 below.
