Pop Star Baby Names from This Decade Are Making a Comeback

The baby naming trends for 2025 are reflecting a strong influence from the ’90s, as parents seek to relive the nostalgia of their own childhoods. Recent data from BabyCenter highlights a significant rise in names associated with pop culture figures from that decade. Names like Britney and Shania are catching on again, with Britney ascending over 1,200 spots to rank at No. 3,958. Shania has also seen a notable increase of 800 spots, landing at No. 1,915. Other ’90s-inspired names making waves include Sabrina, Kelsey, and Briana, reflecting a broader pattern where names from parents’ formative years are trending.

In addition to ’90s nostalgia, the allure of luxury is shaping baby name choices as well. The influence of popular TV shows, such as “White Lotus,” is evident as parents gravitate towards names evoking opulence. For girls, names like Tiffany and Bentley have made their mark, rising to positions No. 822 and No. 2,035 respectively, while Emerald has surged 86 spots to No. 544. For boys, names such as Manolo and Laurent are climbing the ranks, along with Cash, which moved up to No. 314. The name Lux, denoting luxury, has gained traction among both genders, indicating a trend toward names that convey wealth and refinement.

Oscar-winning names are also making their presence felt, as associations with recognized talent inspire new parents. The name Anora jumped an impressive 1,105 spots for girls, now ranking at No. 2,291, influenced by a recent award. Following the success of actors like Adrien Brody and Kieran Culkin, their names have also seen increases in popularity, with Adrien climbing 206 spots to No. 1,132 and Kieran rising 48 spots to No. 488. Additionally, the impact of stage adaptations, particularly “Wicked,” has led to a resurgence of names like Cynthia, showcasing how cultural milestones leave a lasting imprint on naming trends.

Bird-themed names are soaring in popularity, possibly influenced by recent celebrity choices. Cameron Diaz’s choice to name her baby Cardinal has contributed to this trend. Names like Robin, Raven, and Dove are becoming more favored, with Robin gaining 274 spots for girls to No. 987 and 97 spots for boys to No. 960. Other names associated with birds, such as Mavis, have also seen upward movement. The name Dove, particularly following a recent musical release from former Disney star Dove Cameron, has experienced a remarkable jump of 717 spots, which speaks to how popular figures can dramatically influence naming choices.

Despite the rising trends, certain tried-and-true names remain dominant as we head into 2025. The top ten boys’ names include familiar favorites like Noah, Liam, and Oliver, while girls’ names are led by perennial choices such as Olivia, Amelia, and Sophia. These classic names continue to prioritize tradition amid the shifting landscape of popular culture-inspired naming. It signifies a balance between modern trends and the enduring love for established names, providing a glimpse into parents’ aspirations for their children.

As we analyze these shifting trends, it becomes clear that the motivations behind choosing names are multifaceted. From nostalgia for the ’90s to an inclination towards luxury, and from cultural influences to classic choices, the landscape of baby names is vibrant and evolving. Parents are not just selecting names; they are curating identities rich with meaning, reflecting their values and experiences. This proactive approach in name selection continues to draw from personal, cultural, and societal inspirations.