A-List

Indie actress Parker Posey put a female imprint on this sophisticated surname that's still about three times as common for boys but rising for both sexes. Parker has the advantage of its nature connection, relating it to such occupational names as Gardener and Forester.

Quin is a concise, gender-neutral name that has been increasingly used for girls. It originated as a shortened form of names like Quincy, Quinlan, or Quintana, ultimately derived from the Latin 'quintus' meaning 'fifth.' The name has Irish connections through surnames like Quinn (from Ó Cuinn, meaning 'descendant of Conn'). Quin's simplicity gives it a modern, streamlined appeal that fits contemporary naming trends favoring short, gender-flexible names. For girls specifically, it offers a strong yet feminine option without frills or elaboration. The name has grown in popularity since the early 2000s but remains relatively uncommon. Its brief, punchy sound and rich cultural heritage make it appealing for parents seeking a name that's both substantive and stylish.

Sera is a truly international variation heard in Hebrew-speaking, Spanish and Italian cultures. Sera can also spelled Serah. Sera might also be a short form of Seraphina.

Serena, a name used since Roman times, was given fresh life by tennis star Williams, and then again with the leading character on Gossip Girl, Serena van der Woodsen. There have also been Serenas on soap operas and other shows from Bewitched to Law & Order.

The short but solid Irish surname Shea works well for both genders thanks to its soft, succinct sound. The traditional Irish form is Séaghdha, though it could also be used as a short form of Séamus, connected to James.

With related choices such as Lark and Phoenix gaining popularity, why not Sparrow? Though it's usually thought of as a female name, Nicole Richie and Joel Madden chose it for their son.

A new unisex word name with a lot of charm, especially appropriate for the child of writers. Soleil Moon Frye named her second baby boy Story and Jenna Elfman called her son Story Elias.

See TALIA.

As Theo and Thea get more popular, so do Teo and Tea, short forms of the Latinate variations of Theodore and Matthew -- which include Dorotea and Mattea. But like Theo and Thea, Tea can stand perfectly well on its own and blends seamlessly into any Anglophone or European culture, if that is your aim. Some may argue that the Tea version is the prettiest and it's certainly the sleekest.

This name of both a grayish-greenish-blue color and a kind of wild duck can be used for both boys and girls.

See TEAL.