Isla is a contemporary gem, so why not Isle? As an English word name, it takes you straight to the literal definition — a small island — which could have an appealing, aspirational ring to it, for those wanting to raise independent children.

Isak is a Scandinavian and Eastern European variant of Isaac, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' This spelling is particularly common in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and parts of Eastern Europe. The Biblical Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah, giving the name deep religious significance in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Isak has maintained steady popularity in Scandinavian countries, appreciating its clean, simple sound. In recent years, the name has gained international appeal as parents seek distinctive alternatives to more common biblical names. Notable bearers include Swedish writer Isak Dinesen (pen name of Karen Blixen) and various European athletes and artists.

Reece is a less popular respelling of Reese, made famous by actress Witherspoon. Reese is the most popular spelling for girls and Rhys for boys, with Reece given to about four times as many boys as girls.

Used for baby girls every year since the 80s, Kyler provides an alternative for parents wanting something with the sounds or style of Skyler, Carter, Kaia, Kylie, and Kyla.

An established surname that fits well with today's trend for the "Ever" sound – and a similar-yet-different alternative to Emerson. Historically, it denoted a descendent of Evert, a form of Everard, meaning "brave boar", or a descendent of Eve or its medieval English diminutive Evot, meaning "life".

The nature boy version of the Scandinavian Leif, which actually means "heir". In the creative-naming Phoenix family, Leaf is the former name of the actor we know as Joaquin.

Soft, amber-hued herbal and autumnal name that's used most often to describe the color of a horse. The proper spelling: Sorrel.

A scientific word name that would work wonderfully as a given name, given its similarity to Felix.

Capucine was a chic French actress half a century ago and has been one of the most fashionable girl names in France in recent decades, ranking in France's Top 100. Capucine is also popular in French-speaking Belgium. To Americans and other English speakers, this name still feels fresh -- so fresh that last year, no baby girls were named Capucine in the US.

Naz is occasionally used as-is on the birth certificate, but you're more likely to encounter it as a nickname for Nazir or Nazareth.

Ibsen is a literary hero name possibility, after the great Norwegian dramatist, Henrik I. The name Ib is a short form of Jacob, so you might consider Ibsen as an honorific for or a twin of a Jacob.

One "bald" name we can get behind, thanks to pioneering African-American author James Baldwin – though the name is now also associated with the Baldwin brothers, particularly Alec.

Grey is the more common spelling in Britain and Australia. This color name has a softness and ambiguity which makes it equally lovely for a boy or a girl.

Another name for Jupiter, king of the Roman gods, this jovial name is eminently ready for modern use. Feminine variations include Jovita and Jovie.

A preppier take on Rain — you could also consider Raines. The feminine version of Raine is French, related to Reina, and means "queen."

Mason is a supertrendy name for boys that's starting to cross over -- Kelsey Grammer used it for his daughter. Creative speller's delight.

This shimmery lunar name is rising in popularity as a middle name for both sexes.

Variant of Evelyn or Aveline

Ace is a retro nickname most often used for boys, as in Ace Ventura. While some celebrities have adopted it for their sons, there's nothing that makes this name exclusively male.

Riko could make a fun alternative to Nico/Niko and provide a fresh feeling twist on Richard or Ricky.