For Girl #2

Asha is an Indian name that comes from the Sanskrit word for hope or desire, but it is also a Swahili name derived from Aisha, meaning life. Since the ascendance of Ashley through the 1980s and 90s, all baby names Ash-related have been used in the U.S. for both girls and boys, from Ashlyn to Ashby, Ashton to Asher. Despite its separate roots, Asha is part of this group.

Bae is a succinct, modern feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Korean, it means 'inspiration' or can relate to the surname meaning 'pear.' However, its recent popularity stems largely from its use as an acronym for 'before anyone else' in English-language social media and youth culture, where it became a term of endearment for a romantic partner. This contemporary usage has influenced its adoption as a given name in Western contexts. In Danish and Norwegian, Bae relates to the word for 'dwelling' or 'home.' The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal, while its cross-cultural connections offer depth of meaning. Despite its trendy associations, Bae remains relatively uncommon as a formal given name, appealing to parents seeking distinctive, contemporary options with international flair.

Claire, luminous, simple, and strong, is one of those special names that is familiar yet distinctive, feminine but not frilly, combining historical depth with a modern edge. And though Claire is enjoying revived popularity, it will never be seen as trendy. Claire is also a great middle name choice.

Cora is a lovely, old-fashioned girls' that has been recently rejuvenated by its contemporary-feeling simplicity. In fact, Cora seemed headed straight for the top of the popularity list when the coronavirus pandemic somewhat weakened its appeal.

Gwynne is a feminine name with Welsh origins, derived from the Welsh word 'gwyn' meaning 'white,' 'fair,' or 'blessed.' Traditionally used for both genders in Wales, it has become predominantly feminine in English-speaking countries. The name carries associations with purity, brightness, and spiritual blessing. Gwynne has historical connections to Welsh culture and mythology, where fairness and light were highly valued qualities. Though never extremely common, the name has maintained steady recognition, particularly in regions with Welsh heritage. Its distinctive spelling with the double 'n' adds visual interest while its short, one-syllable pronunciation offers simplicity. Parents often choose Gwynne for its Celtic roots, positive meaning, and elegant yet strong sound.

Keira is an attractive girls’ name that's gotten a huge boost from the meteoric rise of Keira Knightley. Original spelling Kiera, which relates more directly to the male Kieran, was the more popular form until the rise of Keira Knightley reversed the order. Both are Anglicized versions of the Irish Ciara.

Lainey is one of the many fast-rising nickname names of the last few years, and longer forms like Elaine, Alaina, and Delaney are enjoying their own bouts of popularity. Simple and tailored, but equally sweet Laine is not yet in the Top 1000, but feels stylish today.

Better known than it would otherwise be thanks to Meryl (born Mary Louise) Streep.

The skyrocketing success of singer Norah Jones brought this spelling of the name onto the pop charts in 2003. As well as being a spelling variant of Nora in English, it's also an alternative transcription of the Arabic name Nura, from Nur/Noor "light".

Paige is more name, and less word than the occupational Page. Paige is also sleek and sophisticated a la Brooke and Blair and reached as high as Number 47 in 2003, when there was a very popular television show, Trading Spaces, hosted by the energetic Paige Davis.

Rory is a buoyant, spirited name for a redhead with Celtic roots. The name Rory is getting more popular overall, but for the past few years has been trending decidedly toward the boys' side -- however, it's been rising to new heights for girls in recent years.

Rue has gone from Golden Girls actress to Hunger Games heroine to a fresh alternative to beloved middle name Rose. This botanical name is also a coincidental double word name, meaning "regret" in English and "street" in French. Despite these unfortunate secondary meanings, Rue has real potential to be one of the most popular new middle names for girls.

Scout, a character nickname from To Kill a Mockingbird (her real name was Jean Louise), became a real-life possibility when Bruce Willis and Demi Moore used it for their now-grown middle daughter, followed by Tom Berenger a few years later.

Siena is a soft and delicate Tuscan town name given a big fashion boost by lovely young actress/gossip column staple Sienna Miller. A real up-and-comer.

Suri, a once obscure name, hit the headlines when it was chosen by Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise for their daughter in 2006. A truly multi-cultural choice, Suri is a unique name with a variety of different origins.