We never tire of hearing some fresh ideas on the subject. Whether you are currently rocking a bump and actually need a name soon, or just planning ahead for babies to come, it is never too early to start gathering some gorgeous inspiration.
Here are some sweet (and currently very popular!) boy and girl names from five different countries in Europe – that we think are going to start making their way to our shores pretty soon. So what are you waiting for?! Get in there first!
Girl: Chiara
Meaning: We are obsessing a little (OK, a lot!) over Italian fashion blogger Chiara Ferragni of The Blonde Salad, but never mind her AWESOME wardrobe, she also has a pretty gorgeous name. Chiara means "light" in Italian. Pretty perfect for your brand shiny new baby girl, no?
Boy: Nico
Meaning: Victorious; conqueror of the people. We LOVE this short and sweet version of the longer Nicholas.
Greece
Girl: Ilona
Meaning: Ilona was probably a Hungarian form of 'Helen' which originates in Greek language and means "torch of light". In Greek mythology, Helen is a famous figure, known as Helen of Troy. This name is seriously chic and pretty.
Boy: Xander
Meaning: With its powerful meaning, "defender of the people", Xander is bound to be a popular name. And not just that—it sounds great when you say it, and there aren’t many cool names that start with the letter X. So as far as we’re concerned, X really does mark the spot, and this Greek name is where it’s at.
Spain
Girl: Esmeralda
Meaning: The English translation of this beautiful name is "emerald", and we feel this one might totally blow up soon. It should also be mentioned that Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling named their little girl Esmeralda. You know, in case that'll convince you this one is a winner. If you are a literary fan, you will remember that Esmeralda is the Gypsy girl loved by Quasimodo in Victor Hugo's famous The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Boy: Luis
Meaning: Luis means "famous warrior" making it a solid name for your new son. The spelling is a nice variation of the more commonly known Louis.
Germany
Girl: Luna
Meaning: We LOVE this name, meaning "moon" in Latin. How perfect for you little ray of light! This shimmery moonstruck name has been growing in popularity, undoubtedly influenced by the Harry Potter character Luna Lovegood. Currently ranked among the most popular baby girl names in Germany.
Boy: Ferdinand
Meaning: This ancient Germanic name means "bold voyager". It has a profound legacy, too, with three Roman emperors and several Spanish and Italian kings bearing this name. Now, if that isn't a great, proud name for your little heir to bear, we don't know what is.