Dutch Princesses

This diminutive, similar to Alex or Alexis, has been yo-yoing in popularity since the turn of the 21st century.

Ariane is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing the French form of Ariadne. In Greek mythology, Ariadne was the daughter of King Minos who helped Theseus escape the Labyrinth. The name carries connotations of intelligence and helpfulness, derived from its mythological roots. Ariane has been moderately popular in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions, appreciated for its elegant sound and classical heritage. The name has gained additional modern recognition through its connection to European space programs, with the Ariane rockets named after this celestial-sounding moniker. With its combination of mythological depth, melodic pronunciation, and cross-cultural appeal, Ariane offers a sophisticated yet accessible option that balances traditional roots with contemporary style.

Beatrix has a solid history of its own apart from Beatrice, with that final x adding a playful, animated note to the name's imposing history and stately vibe.

Catharina is a feminine name with deep European roots, particularly common in Germanic, Scandinavian, and Dutch-speaking regions. It derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, later Latinized to Catharina, meaning 'pure.' This elegant, classical variation of Catherine carries a regal quality, having been borne by numerous European queens and noblewomen throughout history. While Catherine and Katherine are more common in English-speaking countries, Catharina maintains popularity in continental Europe. The name offers a formal, sophisticated alternative with international appeal. Its rich historical connections and melodious pronunciation give it an air of timeless elegance. Though less common in contemporary America and Britain, Catharina represents a distinguished heritage choice with cross-cultural versatility.

Christina, a pretty and feminine, crystal clear classic, may be trending downward, but it's never out of style. Christina's short forms Chris, Christie, and Tina all seem dated—making the royal Christina best used in its full glory.

Serene Irene, the name of the Greek goddess of peace and one of the most familiar Greek goddess names, was hugely popular in ancient Rome and again in the United States a hundred years ago.

Long common in Europe, the elegant and regal Juliana, also spelled with two n's, has invaded these shores, in tandem with the more classic Julia. Together with Julian, the name derives from Julius, a Roman family name. Its origin is shrouded in history, but possible roots include Latin iuvenis, meaning "youthfu"; Greek ioulos, meaning "downy-bearded"; or Jovis, a form of Jupiter, which means "sky father".

Margriet is a Dutch feminine name derived from the Latin 'margarita' meaning 'pearl.' It's the Dutch variant of Margaret, a name with centuries of history throughout Europe. In the Netherlands, the name gained special significance after Princess Margriet of the Netherlands was born in Canada during World War II, becoming a symbol of hope during difficult times. The flower known as the marguerite daisy (Leucanthemum) is named after this same root word, adding natural symbolism to the name. Though primarily used in Dutch-speaking regions, Margriet carries a classic, elegant quality with international recognition. The name combines traditional heritage with a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common Margaret variations.

A midcentury Catholic classic that's not chosen by many parents today. Leonard Cohen fans might think of the beautiful song So Long, Marianne, named for his lover and muse Marianne Ihlen.

Pauline had its moment of glory almost a century ago, when movie audiences were thrilling to the silent serial The Perils of Pauline; it's a sweet and gentle name that just might be due for reconsideration. Off the list since the late 1990s, Pauline was a Top 50 name from around 1908 to 1930.

Sophie is the French form of the Greek Sophia, for which it is also commonly used as a nickname. Given Sophia's long standing among the Top 10 girl names in the US, Sophie may feel more popular than it actually is.

Wilhelmina might once have been condemned as a clunky relic best left in the past, but a steadily increasing number of parents are dusting it off for their 21st century babies. A reasonably popular choice in the 19th century, but out of favor by the 1950s, in the last decade, the number of babies called Wilhelmina has doubled, with 140 girls receiving the name in 2023.