French inspiration

Alouette is a sweet Gallic twist in the stylish bird name genre made familiar via the charming French children's song, Alouette, gentile alouette.

This simple yet evocative French word name was chosen for her daughter by model Niki Taylor. While Ciel may be pronounced in French with two syllables, many will pronounce it as "seal" and there may be confusion with Celia and sister Ceil.

More and more frequently heard as the Gallic version of Oliver, Olivier could be seen as a tribute to the great British actor, Sir Laurence O.

Florentine is an unusual member of a group of names destined for great popularity for girls. Its primary members are Flora and Florence, but rarer choices such as Flory and Fleur and Florentine are sure to flower in the years ahead.

A streamlined version of Anneliese, or perhaps a hybrid of Ann and Elise.

This feminization of Anthony, like other early French forms, such as Babette and Nanette, is not heard as often as it once was, but it could be time for a reappraisal of this delicate Gallic choice.

Has a musty 1940s feel. Try Georgia -- or Georgiana.

Etienette is a delicate feminine French name, functioning as the female form of Etienne (the French equivalent of Stephen). It ultimately derives from the Greek 'Stephanos,' meaning 'crown' or 'garland,' symbolizing honor and victory. This elegant, uncommon name carries a distinctly French sophistication with its soft ending and refined sound. Though rare even in French-speaking regions, Etienette offers a charming alternative to more common feminine forms like Stephanie. The name combines classic origins with a melodic quality that feels both traditional and distinctive. Its elaborate construction gives it an aristocratic flair while maintaining a gentle, feminine character suitable for contemporary use.

Marietta would make for a classy and uncommon long form for cool nickname Etta.

Soft and delicate French name rarely heard here.

Now that Lily has become hugely popular, parents in love with this flower name are looking further afield for substitutes such as Liliane and Liliana.

A feminine form of Oliver and a diminutive of Olive, Olivette could make an interesting choice for those who love Colette and Violette, but also Olivia. It was used in the 19th century French opera Les noces d'Olivette and ranked in the Top 500 in France in the early half of the 20th century.

The German Matilda has some European variations that are popular in their native countries. Matilde ranks in Italy's and Portugal's Top 10 for girls, while the French variation Mathilde ranks among the Top 100 girl names in France, Denmark, and Norway.

Mignonette is kind of a diminutive of a diminutive. Mignon is the French word for cute, so Mignonette is more or less cutie.

Henriette is to Henri (or Henry) what Charlotte is to Charles. Yet this elegant French name is surprisingly rare in the States.

Popular in Norway and Denmark, but familiar across Europe, Amalie can be pronounced as a-MAHL-yah, much like sister Amalia. A variation of Amelia, it shares the same Germanic element, amal meaning "vigorous, unceasing, work".

Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.

Fraise is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'strawberry,' bringing to mind the sweet, vibrant red fruit. This nature-inspired name carries connotations of sweetness, freshness, and natural beauty. Though uncommon as a given name in most countries, Fraise appeals to parents drawn to unique botanical names and French-inspired choices. Its single-syllable pronunciation in French (similar to 'frez') contrasts with the two-syllable English reading ('fray-z'), giving it different rhythmic qualities depending on pronunciation. The name evokes spring and summer seasons, suggesting a bright, cheerful personality. While rare in naming statistics, Fraise follows the trend of food and nature-inspired names gaining appreciation among parents seeking distinctive options with positive, tangible associations.

Also spelled Anael, this offers a new spin on an old standard. Or even a couple of old standards, if you count Annabelle.

Instead of the usual French suspects -- Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle -- why not consider Fabienne, which is less common and just as pretty.