20 vintage baby names from the 1950s that are making a comeback in 2025 Choosing a name for your baby is one of the most significant decisions a parent will ever make - and it's clear that the names from the 50s are still firm favourites The trend for old-world names is back in a big way (Image: Mirrorpix ) Selecting a name for your newborn is one of the most momentous decisions a parent will ever make. Whether you're partial to more traditional names or fancy something a bit more unique, picking out a name for your little one is no easy task. Over time, many names have waxed and waned in popularity, with certain ones being emblematic of the decades they were most prevalent in. However, there are some that seem to endure and will always be viewed as popular choices by families across the UK. ‌ In recent times, there has been a noticeable surge in families opting for classic, old-world vintage names for their babies. Names from the 1950s are still proving to be a popular choice for families - whether they are seeking uniqueness, simplicity or timelessness. According to Good Housekeeping, below is the list of the top 20 vintage names making a resurgence this year. Here's the list of the 20 top vintage names that are now making a comeback, reports Nottinghamshire Live. 1. James - Still incredibly popular, James is often seen as a timeless name. Article continues below However, in the 50s, it was strongly linked with the rebelliousness and youth culture of the day, thanks to Rebel Without a Cause star James Dean. 2. Mary - Mary was the most popular female name throughout the 50s, just edging out Linda. Mary Blair - the artist who collaborated with Disney on Lady and the Tramp, Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella - is one of the most famous Mary's of the decade. ‌ 3. The name Michael, synonymous with the classic American country and western vibe, has roots in the popularity surge from actor Michael Landon, famed for the 1959 cowboy classic Bonanza. 4. In a tight contest for the most popular monikers of the '50s, Linda was highly favoured, nearly pipping Mary to the post. Today, Linda continues to charm as a cherished choice. ‌ 5. The 1950s witnessed the heyday of the name Robert among actors, with stars like Robert Mitchum, Robert Taylor, and Robert Conrad elevating its status. Carrying the meaning of "bright fame," Robert remains a go-to name for boys. ‌ 6. Injecting a modern essence while maintaining a retro flair, Patricia stands out as one of the 1950s' most distinctive names. Tied to the era's beloved actress Patricia Barry of The Twilight Zone fame, it still holds appeal today. 7. With an enduring resonance that predates the '50s, John reigned supreme from 1900 to 1923. ‌ A perpetual favourite, John features prominently each year on baby name charts, persistently appearing within the top ranks. 8. The name Susan saw its star rise throughout the '50s, becoming ubiquitous by 1960. It is frequently suggested that the decade's affinity for the name can be traced back to the celebrated actress Susan Hayward. ‌ 9. David - Throughout the 1950s, the name David often vied with Michael for the top spot of most popular names. It only clinched it for one year - in 1960 - but remains a favourite today. Nowadays, it's more commonly found in the top 30 list rather than the top five, but it's still a go-to choice for many families. 10. Deborah/Debra - Both Deborah and Debra were incredibly popular girls' names throughout the 1950s. ‌ Different variations of the same name, both were chosen by families throughout the decade and continue to be favoured 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 like William S. Burroughs and William Goldman. The name continues to be popular, featuring in today's top 30 list, and is a great option for families who enjoy using nicknames, such as Will, Willy, Bill or Billy. ‌ 12. Barbara - The name Barbara is currently experiencing a swift comeback. Last year, it leapt 87 places up on the list compared to the previous year and is now considered one of the fastest-growing baby names today. 13. Richard - The name Richard is often associated with the popular musicians of the '50s, from composer Richard Rogers to rock-n-roller Little Richard. ‌ The name reached its zenith towards the end of the decade, but continues to be a favourite today and is also cherished for its associated nicknames - Richard, Ricky and Ricardo. 14. Thomas - The name Thomas hit its lowest popularity ranking in 2011 and 2012, coming in as the 63rd most popular name of those years. However, this classic name from the 50s - adored for its nicknames Thomas, Tom and Tommy - seems to be gradually regaining popularity and is poised to break into the top 10 once again. ‌ 15. Karen - The name Karen is currently enjoying a significant resurgence. One of the most popular names of the '50s, it has remained a favourite among families over the years despite its fluctuating position on the list. 16. Mark - The name Mark continues to be a popular choice for families today, particularly those seeking a short, trendy four-letter name. ‌ A hit in the '50s, it has consistently held its place on the top names list over the years. 17. Nancy - Nancy was one of the most favoured girl's names from the '50s and remains popular today, especially among families looking for a brief and catchy name. 18. Charles - Although still highly popular, the name Charles has slipped down the top names list since peaking in 1929. ‌ It's thought that the current reign of King Charles III could provide the boost needed to elevate the name's popularity. 19. Donna - In the 1950s, the name Donna was ubiquitous, most notably linked with Richie Valens's 1958 hit 'Donna'. While it hasn't yet regained the heights of popularity it once enjoyed, it's slowly making its way back to being one of the most popular girl's names of the 21st century. Article continues below 20. Cynthia - This name enjoyed a surge in popularity during the 20th century, particularly in the '50s and '60s. While it hasn't regained its former glory, it's gradually making a comeback as families seek out more unique names from that period.