Unusual names for girls!

The name of the tragic mythological Trojan princess who was given the gift of prophecy by Apollo, but was condemned never to be believed, Cassandra has been used for striking characters in movies and soap operas. Ethereal and delicate, Cassandra was in the Top 70 throughout the 1990s but is now descending in popularity.

Brynn outshines the original Welsh Bryn in the popularity stakes. This simple, brisk name might be seen as a combination of Bree and Lynn, an androgynous-sounding choice that especially in this spelling is not truly unisex: Brynn, for boys, is not even in the Top 1000.

Though it sounds modern, Brielle is, among other things, a traditional Cajun contraction of Gabrielle, and the name of a historic seaport in the Western Netherlands, also known as Brill. Today, it is used more widely as a nickname for Gabrielle and as a stand-alone name that fits in easily with Isabelle, Briana, and Brinley. In a recent year, it appeared in the US Top 200, ranking above the longer form and used nearly four times as often.

A starry-eyed, intergalactic name, far rarer than Stella or Esther. It's attached both to a comic book character and to Princess Astra on "Doctor Who".

Bluebell is one flower name that is used very quietly. Geri "Ginger Spice" Halliwell joined her former Spice Sisters in creative baby-naming with this adventurous — some might say outlandish — choice. Andie MacDowell has a granddaughter named Bluebell Coyote through her daughter Rainey Qualley.

Evanthe is a pretty Greek name not often heard outside its native culture. With its stylish Ev-begining, Evanthe could make an interesting choice if you're looking for a generic flower name.

Blending classic with contemporary elements, Alayna is considered a spin on the name Alana, which also draws inspiration from Elaine and Elena. An obscure choice until the 80s, it began to climb the charts after fencer Alayna Snell took part in the 1984 Olympics.

Caia Caecilia was the Roman Goddess of fire and women. The name Caia would make a truly fresh alternative to the flagging Maya, with which it rhymes.

Talitha appears in the Bible as words Jesus says to awaken a young girl whose parents feared she was dead. It has been used in the US since colonial times. Talitha is also the name of two stars in Ursa Major, where it's related to the Arabic word for "third." Talitha definitely makes a fresh spin on Tabitha or Talisa.

Kia is a sweet, simple name that is now, unfortunately, associated with a Korean car label. Better today: Nia, Thea, or Keira.

Pronounced a la Bette (Betty) Davis or Bette (Bet) Midler, a twentieth-century relic. Though if the equally vintage Betty comes back, Bette may be close behind.

A Shakespearean invention for an abandoned baby in The Winter's Tale, Perdita's sense of loss has always been off-putting to parents. But her image was somewhat resuscitated by its association with the appealing canine character in Disney's One Hundred and One Dalmations.

Long integrated into the U. S. name pool but still retaining some Slavic flavor, Tanya feels a bit tired; it's ready for replacement by cooler Russian choices like Sasha, Mischa, or parent name Tatiana.

Kiana (or more appropriately, Quiana) is the original polyester name, coming into favor in the 1970s but then drifting downward for years before taking a surprise turn back up the charts, perhaps thanks to its resemblance to the popular Keanu.

This soundalike for the famous volcano, Mount Etna, is a fiery Irish choice that could be perfect for a red-haired baby girl.

The next Destiny? Kismet seems like it might be fated for increased use.

This Danielle/Monique hybrid offers a new twist on an old favorite.

Kym is a short, crisp feminine name that emerged as a simplified spelling of Kim, which itself began as a diminutive of Kimberley or Kimberly. This streamlined version gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, reflecting the era's preference for concise, modern names. The original Kimberley comes from an English place name meaning 'clearing of Cyneburg' (a woman's name). Kym's minimalist spelling gives it a distinctive, contemporary feel while maintaining the friendly, approachable quality of its predecessor. Though never among the most common names, Kym has had consistent usage, particularly in Australia where it gained additional recognition through notable bearers. The name's brevity and simple spelling make it practical while its unusual 'y' spelling adds a touch of uniqueness.

This Anglicized spelling of Irish Aislinn or Aisling has enjoyed some popularity in the US as an updated Ashley.

Mirielle is a feminine name of French origin, a variant spelling of Mireille, which derives from the Occitan name Mireio, made famous by Frédéric Mistral's poem of the same name. The name is thought to ultimately come from Latin 'mirabilis,' meaning 'wonderful' or 'marvelous.' With its melodious quality and gentle sound, Mirielle evokes images of elegance and feminine grace. The name carries a distinctly French flair, appealing to parents drawn to names with European sophistication. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers a beautiful alternative to more familiar names like Miriam or Marielle. The slightly varied spelling from the traditional Mireille adds a unique touch while maintaining the name's essential romantic character.