If you’re a fan of the annual animated Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, you’ll recognize the name of Rudolph’s beautiful doe sweetheart, pronounced cla-REES—uncomfortably close to the Silence of the Lambs pronunciation. Clarice was the name of the wife of Lorenzo de' Medici, and Clarice Cliff was a famed British ceramics artist. Though a Top 300 name from 1906 to 1934, modern parents might prefer the more delicate Clarissa.

Alethea, the name of the Greek goddess of truth, came into fashion in England in the 16th century, in tandem with the virtue names. Alethea may find new favor now, thanks to its similarity to Athena, Ophelia, and Alessia, and because it gets you nickname Thea.

Heloise is an ancient name related to sleek, peppy classic Eloise. Both ultimately derive from the Germanic name Helewidis, which became Helewis in medieval England. In the twelfth century, the name was borne by the beloved of the French philosopher Pierre Abelard, who was considered to be one of the most learned women of the Middle Ages.

Eloisa captures a lovely name back from the spoiled little girl at the Plaza. Historical romance writer Eloisa James has helped make this antique name sound fresh and sassy again.

Now that Violet is becoming more popular, parents are starting to explore same-but-different options such as the French Violette, which would properly be pronounced with a long e sound in the first syllable and three syllables -- vee-oh-let -- as well as the Spanish Violeta — both of which were among the fastest-rising girl names of 2023.

Adds some thorns to the smooth texture of Lily.

Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.

Unlike most creative spellings, this one isn't overly trendy or overdone—in fact, it's quite delicate and pretty. However, it is clearly suffering from the plethora of similar names that are flowing around right now (Emelie, Emilia, Emily, Emilee, Amelie, Amelia) and has fallen more than 300 spots since 2013. It might be time for Emilie and her sisters to be left alone for a while.

Though this name properly takes an accent over the first e, most Americans would probably have trouble pronouncing it with French elan.

Familiar in the UK where it has featured just outside or towards the end of the Top 1000 since the late 90s, this spelling was once a well-used option in the US too, peaking in the 1920s and 30s, when it was in the Top 450. Now, it's making its way back to the American, mainstream, having re-entered the popularity charts in recent years.

Héloïse is a chic French name related to sleek, peppy classic Eloise. Both ultimately derive from the Germanic name Helewidis, which became Helewis in medieval England. In the twelfth century, the name was borne by the beloved of the French philosopher Pierre Abelard, who was considered to be one of the most learned women of the Middle Ages.

Elvire is a feminine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'elf' or 'magical being' and 'true' or 'faithful.' It's the French form of Elvira, which has been used throughout Europe since medieval times. The name carries an elegant, somewhat mysterious quality with its connection to mythological beings and Old World charm. Elvire has been particularly used in French-speaking regions and has literary connections, appearing in works by Victor Hugo and Alphonse de Lamartine. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, the name maintains a sophisticated European flair that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon yet historically grounded. The name's rich vowel sounds give it a melodic quality that feels both classic and distinctive.

This name comes from a genus of beautiful black and white Australian butterflies. Given the rise of "el" names such as Eleanor, Eloise, and Ella, Elodina could make a good choice for someone looking for a rarer name.

Philonese is a rare name that had some usage a century or more ago among the Louisiana Creole. As such, it has ties to French and Italian ancestry. While it may not be joining the popularity charts any time soon, its brother name Philo carries certain characteristics that could make it an attractive alternative to hip choice Milo.

While Ilise is unusual, the E version is more attractive.

Belisse is a rare feminine name with likely French or Latin origins. It may be related to the French word 'belle' meaning 'beautiful,' or possibly derived from 'Belicia,' a medieval variant of names connected to beauty or blessing. The name has a delicate, lyrical quality that gives it a romantic flair. Belisse remains uncommon in most English-speaking countries, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name with a pleasant sound and positive connotations. Despite its rarity, the name is relatively intuitive to pronounce in many languages, adding to its quiet appeal for those looking for something unique yet accessible.

Ivelisse is a feminine name with Spanish and Puerto Rican roots. It's derived from the Germanic name Ivar, combined with a feminine suffix. The name conveys strength and nobility, with its original elements meaning "yew tree" and "warrior." Ivelisse gained popularity primarily in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, particularly in Puerto Rico. While not extremely common in the United States, it has maintained a steady presence within Hispanic American communities. The name offers a distinctive yet melodic quality with its flowing syllables. Women named Ivelisse are often associated with determination, resilience, and a vibrant personality. The name's unique sound makes it stand out while still being approachable and elegant.

Swapping out Eloise's last two letters for a -za takes it from six-year-old Plaza-dweller to grown-up bombshell. Eloisa is the Italian and Spanish variaiton.

A combination name with a hint of fairy-tale magic to it, without being too fantastical. Given to 3 girls in the UK in 2022 and more than 40 in the US, it falls just slightly behind its sister name, Bellarose.