Choosing a baby name is one of the most exciting (and overwhelming) parts of pregnancy.

You want something beautiful, meaningful, timeless… but not so common that there are five of them in daycare.

As we head into 2026, we’re seeing some clear naming trends emerge across Australia. Names that feel soft, romantic, nostalgic and story-driven are on the rise, alongside classic favourites that just won’t budge.

Whether you’re expecting, name-dreaming or just love a good list, here are the baby name trends tipped to be big this year 🤍

🌟 Still going strong in 2026 - Popular for a reason

These names continue to top lists because they’re timeless, easy to say and loved across generations.

Girls

  • Charlotte
  • Isla
  • Hazel

Boys

  • Oliver
  • Noah
  • Leo

Soft, familiar and effortlessly beautiful. These are the names parents keep coming back to.

🌊 TSITP-inspired - Main character energy

Thanks to the rise of story-led shows and nostalgic summer aesthetics, names with a romantic, coastal, “main character” feel are trending hard.

Girls

  • Summer
  • Isabel
  • Susannah

Boys

  • Conrad
  • Jeremiah
  • Benito

Warm, emotional and full of personality.

📖 Romantasy-inspired - For book-loving parents

Fantasy romance and romantic novels are influencing everything from nursery styling to baby names. These feel lyrical, soft and slightly magical.

Girls

  • Oriane
  • Lilivere
  • Seraphina

Boys

  • Emrys
  • Leontel
  • Cassian

Perfect if you want something uncommon but still beautiful and wearable.

📻 Retro names are back -Vintage, familiar & unexpectedly cool

Old-school names are making a confident return. Think grandparent energy, but refreshed.

Girls

  • Gwen
  • Beverly
  • Nancy

Boys

  • Rex
  • Lenny
  • Ronald

Short, punchy and full of character.

🏛 Ancient & timeless - Old-world charm, modern appeal

Names inspired by history, mythology and ancient languages are becoming increasingly popular with Australian parents.

Girls

  • Cassia
  • Marcella
  • Lydia

Boys

  • Cyrus
  • Emrys
  • Felix

Elegant, grounded and built to last.

🌸 Soft & vowel-heavy - Short, melodic & easy to say

These names feel gentle, modern and flow beautifully.

Girls

  • Aya
  • Noa
  • Leonie

Boys

  • Elio
  • Eziah
  • Ari

Minimal, meaningful and effortlessly sweet.

🤍 A little reminder from us

However trends shift, the best name will always be the one that feels right to you. The one you love saying out loud. The one you picture on school bags, birthday cakes, hospital bracelets and tiny passports.

The one you’ll whisper during late nights, busy mornings and every big little moment in between.

And wherever your journey takes you, whether you’re packing a hospital bag, heading out for your first family outing or planning your next adventure, having pieces that support you through those seasons makes all the difference.

At HuddoCo, everything we design is created to grow with you. From hospital stays to everyday mum life to family travel, we’re right there beside you.

Save this list, share it with someone who’s expecting, and happy name-dreaming 🤍