Cobwebs and Bonfires

Former teen idol name, now middle-aged. This name has been on a steady decline since the early-1990s.

Derek is one of those names that, in its heyday, spawned lots of variations, all trendy. Last year, about 300 baby boys were named Derrick and about 1350 were named Derek.

Richie was once a popular enough nickname for Richard that it made the Top 1000 all by itself, blending in with Ronnie, Reggie, Robbie, and Randy. In the US, it last appeared in the charts back in the 70s, but its still in style in the UK where a recent year saw it rank at the latter end of the charts, alongside Drew, Wilf, and Bobbie.

Hodge is a medieval English nickname for Roger, which was brought to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Roger isn't ready for a comeback yet, but we'd love to see the resurgence of Hodge, which never was a common choice in the US.

Charlene is a Charlotte variation that, along with similar names like Arlene and Marlene, spiked in popularity in the 1940s and fifties, reaching a high of Number 100 in 1949. Most parents today would prefer one of the note classic versions -- or even nickname Charlie.

Noreen's in limbo, especially now that Nora has made a comeback.

Stacey is a feminine name (though also used for boys) with Greek origins, derived from Eustace, meaning 'fruitful' or 'productive.' Initially a diminutive of Anastasia, meaning 'resurrection,' Stacey emerged as an independent name in its own right. The name reached peak popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, becoming emblematic of that era. Stacey conveys a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining a certain spirited energy. While its usage has declined since its heyday, the name retains nostalgic appeal and continues to be appreciated for its pleasant sound and unpretentious charm. Various spelling variations exist, including Stacy and Stacie, each offering slight personalization while preserving the name's essential character.

Feline nickname for Tabitha — a bewitching vintage choice.

Short for Samuel or long for Sam, Sammy is a sweet midcentury nickname name that we can see coming back.

More modern options: Shaw, Shay, or even Sean.

Mackie is a masculine name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Macky, which is a diminutive of Mac or Mack, meaning 'son of.' It began as a surname or clan name, often representing descendants of Magnus. As a given name, Mackie has a friendly, approachable quality with its '-ie' ending creating a sense of familiarity. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it maintains popularity in Scotland and among families with Scottish heritage. Mackie offers a distinctive alternative to more popular Mac- names while still carrying traditional roots and a strong connection to Scottish culture.

Relic of a past period of French favorites, out to pasture with Claudette and Paulette.

Fading since the 1970s -- but still a lovely name.

Jimbo is a masculine name that originated as a familiar, affectionate nickname for James. With English-American origins, it combines the shortened form 'Jim' with the suffix 'bo,' which was a popular addition to nicknames in the southern United States. This playful diminutive has occasionally been used as a given name in its own right, particularly in the late 20th century when informal names gained acceptance. Jimbo conveys a friendly, approachable quality with a distinctly casual American flair. While not commonly found on birth certificates, it maintains popularity as a nickname and carries associations with down-to-earth warmth and unpretentious charm. The name has folksy appeal and projects an easygoing personality.

Truncated form of Marylouise.

Part Jason, part Jayce, this name has been among the Top 500 names for boys near-consistently since the late 1960s. While it's a reasonable spelling especially if you're naming your son after someone named Jay or another name that starts with the letter J, it's one of those names that will eternally need to be spelled out for people. But then again, so are classics like Elisabeth and Sara and Jon.

Short and sharp but endearing too, Ruthanne is a combination of two classic names. Briefly popular in the 40s, Ruthanne is still given to around 15 girls each year - and, with Ruthie back on the charts, perhaps it will gain more attention. Ruth-Anne Cunningham, known as RuthAnne, is an Irish singer and songwriter who has worked with JoJo and Britney Spears.

See TRICIA.

Sweet and retro, Cherilyn peaked in 1972, when Cher (born Cherilyn Sarkisian) rose to fame. Possibly not quite ready for a comeback, though perhaps fun nickname Cherry might swing it.

Paulie is one short form that never caught on the way Stevie and Danny did, except for the sadistic mama's boy on The Sopranos. Pauley buttons it up and turns it into a surname.