Baby names with a Polish/European feel

Florence is back, returning to the US Top 1000 girl names in 2017 after a nearly 40 year absence. Other English-speaking countries have been quicker to welcome Florence back into fashion.

From the first time we saw the name Saskia attached to a portrait of Rembrandt's wife (her full name was Saakje van Uylenburgh, but she was always called Saskia), we have found it utterly charming and wondered why it hasn't attracted more fans In this country--she's appreciated by the Brits, who have moved her to Number 392. Saskia is one of those names that's been used in Europe since the Middle Ages, but has never crossed the ocean.

This name is a classic example of an underused golden oldie that ticks so many boxes - unusual yet traditional, heaps of cute nicknames, a statement name that exudes retro cool. Aloysius is the Latin form of many more common names like Louis, Luis, Luigi and the uncommon but symphonically familiar Ludwig.

Sweet, enchanting Lilou is considered both a pet name from the Occitan language (spoken in Provence in the south of France), and a compound name, blending floral Lili with classic Louise. It peaked in France back in 2009 when it reached #12, and while it has now fallen in popularity, it remains in the Top 200.

Putting the emphasis on the "elle" softens a name that seems at once futuristic and medieval.

Tennis star Novak Djokovic introduced this new first name to the English-speaking world, though it had long been familiar as a surname. The celebrity Novak, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, might be an inspirational role model for a baby Novak. And the name Novak goes well with other stylish names that mean new, including Nova, Neo, and Nouvel.

Anastazja is the Polish form of Anastasia, a feminine name with Greek origins meaning 'resurrection' or 'she who will rise again.' This variation uses the characteristic Polish spelling with 'zj' replacing the 'si' found in other European forms. The name carries deep Christian significance, associated with several saints including St. Anastasia of Sirmium, who was venerated for her martyrdom. In Poland and other Slavic countries, Anastazja has maintained consistent popularity through generations, appreciated for both its religious connections and its elegant, classic sound. The name often shortens to affectionate diminutives like Nastka or Nastia in everyday use. Its cross-cultural recognition makes it familiar internationally while the Polish spelling gives it a distinctive national character.

A Top 10 classic in the Czech Republic.

This very unusual name, also related to Hannah, was chosen for his daughter by Vin Diesel.

Aliz, traditionally spelt Alíz, is a Top 50 name in Hungary and puts a zippy spin, thanks to that final z, on the classic Alice. Its similarity to names such as Elise may cause some confusion, but its simplicity makes it a winner.