Lavender lags far behind sweet-smelling purple-hued sister names Violet and Lila, but is starting to get some enthusiastic attention from cutting-edge namers along with other adventurous nature names like Clementine and Marigold. In fact, 2024 saw it enter the US Top 1000 for the first time, when it was given to nearly 260 girls.

Simone, the elegant French feminization of Simon, strikes that all-important balance between unusual and familiar, and it's oozing with Gallic sophistication. A dated choice in its native France, gymnast Simone Biles brings new bounce and spark to name.

The female version of Emanuel could become more prominent, though for some it still carries a steamy image dating back to a then sensationally erotic French film. Singer and Shameless star Emmy Rossum's full name is Emmanuelle.

Spice names are increasingly appealing to the senses of prospective parents; this one, belonging to a precious spice derived from the crocus has a vaguely orange-scented-incense sixties feel.

The whole Talulla, Talullah, Tallulah, Talula thing is very confusing, but basically the versions that have one l first are Irish and those with two are Native American. However you parse it, Talulla is an adorable name with ancient roots and a quirky, contemporary feel.

Vienne came to Western consciousness as the name of the French heroine of the popular 1990s book and then movie Chocolat. Vienne is a variation of Vienna, the name of the Austrian capital that has been used as a first name for centuries. Vienne may also be a short form or variation of Vivienne.

Attracted attention as the stepmother of Princess Diana.

Izzie is a charming feminine diminutive of names like Isabel, Isabella, or Isabelle. It emerged as an affectionate nickname before gaining popularity as a standalone name in recent decades. With its friendly, upbeat sound and 'ie' ending that gives it a playful quality, Izzie offers a more casual and modern alternative to its formal counterparts. The name saw increased recognition following characters named Izzie on popular television shows like 'Grey's Anatomy.' While maintaining its status as a nickname, Izzie has been chosen increasingly as a given name by parents seeking something sweet and unpretentious with built-in cheerfulness. Its simplicity and contemporary feel make it appealing for those who prefer names that are easy to spell and pronounce.

Though it may not be as sweet and gentle as, say, Violet, the purple-hued Hyacinth still might hold some appeal for the parent seeking a truly unusual flower name.

Cosette is best known as the heroine of Les Miserables. In the Victor Hugo novel, Cosette was the nickname given to the girl named Euphrasie by her mother. Although Hugo invented the name, some etymologists believe it's a spin on Colette, originally a female short form of Nicolas.

Officially a shortening of the traditional and tricky Gaelic Fionnghuala/Fionnuala, Nuala makes a lovely choice all on its own. Nuala is well-used in Ireland.

South African-raised actress Embeth Davidtz added this unique smooth name to the mix. Perfect if you can't decide between Emma and Elizabeth and more unusual than Annabeth.