250+ Southern Girl Names with Meanings: Best Charm List

You know that feeling when the humidity hits you like a wet blanket the second you step out the door? Or that specific sound of cicadas that just screams “August in Georgia”? That’s the South. It’s not just a place on a map; it’s a whole mood. It’s iced tea that’ll rot your teeth and manners that’ll make you blush. And when it comes to naming a baby girl down here, we don’t take it lightly.

I remember when my wife and I were expecting our first little girl. The pressure was real. We didn’t want a name that just sounded nice; we wanted a name that had some grit to it. Something that could handle a mud pie in the backyard and a debutante ball in the same week. We spent nights staring at the ceiling fan, tossing names back and forth like we were playing catch. We wanted one of those Southern girl names with meanings that stuck to your ribs.

It’s tough. You look at these lists online and they feel so… sterile. Like a robot wrote them. That ain’t what you need. You need a list from a guy who has actually had to yell these names across a playground. Whether you’re deep in the Bayou, hiding out in the hills of Tennessee, or just want a name that sounds like it knows how to make a proper biscuit, I’ve got you covered. I pulled together this monster list to help you find that perfect fit.

Also Read: Best Girl Names with Beautiful Meanings and Best Scary Team Names with Meanings

Key Takeaways

• Family First: We love taking a grandmother’s maiden name—think Sutton or Parker—and slapping it right on the birth certificate as a first name.
• The Double-Barrel Deal: If you name her Mary-Kate, you better correct anyone who just calls her “Mary.” It’s a package deal.
• Rooted in Nature: You can’t go wrong with names pulled straight from the dirt, like Magnolia, Savannah, or Delta.
• Grandma Chic: Old-school names like Hattie and Pearl aren’t dusty anymore; they are the coolest names in the preschool drop-off line.
• It’s About the Story: A name isn’t just a sound; it’s a history lesson. Meaning matters.

Why does the South have such a grip on baby names?

It’s weird, right? You don’t see people clamoring for “Northern Girl Names.” But Southern names? They have a gravity to them. They pull you in. I think it comes down to hospitality. A Southern name just feels like it’s inviting you to sit on the porch and stay a while.

For me, it’s about the stories. Every name down here seems to have a yarn attached to it. Growing up, my grandmother—Mawmaw, obviously—had a neighbor named Eudora. Even when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, I knew Miss Eudora was not to be trifled with. She made a mean pound cake, but she’d also chase a stray dog off her lawn with a broom. That name had power. That’s the kind of energy we want for our daughters.

We are bridging a gap. We are trying to honor the folks who came before us while giving our kids a name that fits in the modern world. It’s a balancing act. You want a name that respects the past but doesn’t feel like a museum piece.

Which Classic Belles are actually timeless?

Let’s cut to the chase. These are the heavy hitters. The names that have survived the Civil War, the Great Depression, and the 80s hair metal phase. These are the Belles. When you say these names, you can almost hear the crinkle of a ballgown.

1. Scarlett

• Meaning: Red
• The Vibe: You can’t make a list like this without her. It’s bold. It’s dramatic. It’s for a girl who is going to run the show, plain and simple.

2. Savannah

• Meaning: Treeless plain (from the Taino word zabana)
• The Vibe: It drips with Spanish moss. It’s one of the quintessential Southern girl names with meanings because it ties her right to the map.

3. Caroline

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: Sweet, polished, and solid. “Sweet Caroline” is the anthem, but the name itself is a lifestyle.

4. Georgia

• Meaning: Farmer
• The Vibe: It’s earthy. It smells like peaches and hot asphalt after a summer rain. It doesn’t need to shout.

5. Virginia

• Meaning: Maid or virgin
• The Vibe: Regal but approachable. Call her Ginny and she’s suddenly the spunkiest kid in class.

6. Charlotte

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: It’s everywhere right now, but for good reason. It balances royal vibes with Southern charm. “Charlie” is a killer nickname for a tomboy.

7. Abigail

• Meaning: My father is joyful
• The Vibe: This is the girl who makes straight A’s and knows how to change a tire. Dependable.

8. Elizabeth

• Meaning: Pledged to God
• The Vibe: The Swiss Army knife of names. Liz, Lizzie, Beth, Betsy, Ellie—take your pick.

9. Katherine

• Meaning: Pure
• The Vibe: Strong. Traditional. It commands respect the second you say it.

10. Margaret

• Meaning: Pearl
• The Vibe: This is a matriarch name. A baby Margaret is destined to be the boss of the family reunion one day.

11. Susannah

• Meaning: Lily
• The Vibe: It’s got a bounce to it. “Oh, Susannah!” It feels sunnier than just plain Susan.

12. Annabelle

• Meaning: Loving
• The Vibe: Frills on frills. It screams giant hair bows and monograms on everything.

13. Clementine

• Meaning: Mild, merciful
• The Vibe: A little quirky, a little vintage. It’s distinct without being weird.

14. Tallulah

• Meaning: Leaping water
• The Vibe: This name has a personality of its own. You can’t be boring and be named Tallulah.

15. Adelaide

• Meaning: Noble
• The Vibe: Old-school charm making a massive comeback. Addie is just too sweet.

16. Beatrice

• Meaning: She who brings happiness
• The Vibe: Bea is a snappy, modern nickname for a name that feels like antique furniture.

17. Clara

• Meaning: Bright, clear
• The Vibe: Simple elegance. Reminds everyone of Christmas and the Nutcracker.

18. Josephine

• Meaning: Jehovah increases
• The Vibe: Joey and Josie give this grand name a little bit of a tomboy edge.

19. Louisa

• Meaning: Renowned warrior
• The Vibe: It sounds literary. Like she’s going to grow up and write the next great American novel.

20. Matilda

• Meaning: Battle-mighty
• The Vibe: Don’t let the meaning scare you; Tillie is about as cute as it gets.

How do you pull off the Double Name without it sounding clunky?

Here’s the truth I learned the hard way: two names are better than one, but you gotta stick the landing. The flow is everything. You can’t just glue two random names together.

My cousin named his girl Mary-Clare. I slipped up once at a family BBQ and called her “Mary.” She was maybe three. She put her hands on her hips, glared at me, and said, “It’s Mary-Clare.” I stood corrected. That’s the power of the double name.

21. Mary-Kate

• Meaning: Bitter/Beloved + Pure
• The Vibe: The classic. The standard everyone else is trying to live up to.

22. Anna-Lee

• Meaning: Grace + Meadow
• The Vibe: Sounds like a melody. Very soft, very lyrical.

23. Sarah-Jane

• Meaning: Princess + God is gracious
• The Vibe: Wholesome. Like apple pie on a windowsill.

24. Mary-Grace

• Meaning: Bitter/Beloved + Grace
• The Vibe: Polite. Deeply religious vibes here.

25. Emma-Jo

• Meaning: Universal + God will increase
• The Vibe: Spunky. Get this girl a pair of cowboy boots immediately.

26. Lily-Rose

• Meaning: Flower + Flower
• The Vibe: Double the floral, double the charm.

27. Mary-Beth

• Meaning: Bitter/Beloved + Pledged to God
• The Vibe: The girl next door. Everyone loves a Mary-Beth.

28. Anna-Claire

• Meaning: Grace + Bright
• The Vibe: Sounds expensive. Sophisticated.

29. Ella-Mae

• Meaning: All/Completely + Bitter/Pearl
• The Vibe: Vintage and cozy. Sounds like someone’s sweet great-aunt.

30. Sarah-Beth

• Meaning: Princess + Pledged to God
• The Vibe: Friendly. The kind of name you trust instantly.

31. Ava-Grace

• Meaning: Life + Grace
• The Vibe: A modern spin on the classic structure.

32. Mary-Alice

• Meaning: Bitter/Beloved + Noble
• The Vibe: Sounds like a character from a mystery novel.

33. Katie-Lee

• Meaning: Pure + Meadow
• The Vibe: High energy. Ready to run.

34. Laura-Kate

• Meaning: Bay laurel + Pure
• The Vibe: Preppy. Polished.

35. Maggie-Mae

• Meaning: Pearl + Bitter/Pearl
• The Vibe: Playful. A little bit folksy.

Can the outdoors actually inspire a good name?

Look around. The South is green. We’ve got magnolias the size of dinner plates and weeping willows that look like they’re crying into the river. Naming your daughter after that stuff grounds her. It gives her roots.

I took my daughter fishing when she was five. We were sitting on the dock, feet dangling. She asked why we named her Willow. I pointed to the tree on the bank, bending way over the water but never snapping in the wind. I told her, “Because that tree is tough and flexible, just like I want you to be.” She just went back to watching her bobber, but I think it stuck.

36. Magnolia

• Meaning: Magnolia flower
• The Vibe: The big one. Maggie or Nola makes it easy to wear.

37. Willow

• Meaning: Willow tree
• The Vibe: Graceful but tough as nails.

38. Ivy

• Meaning: Ivy plant
• The Vibe: Short. Punchy. Climbs over everything.

39. Hazel

• Meaning: The hazelnut tree
• The Vibe: Earthy. A little bit hipster these days, but still classic.

40. Olive

• Meaning: Olive tree
• The Vibe: Peaceful. Ancient.

41. Daisy

• Meaning: Day’s eye
• The Vibe: Happy. You can’t be mad at a Daisy.

42. Violet

• Meaning: Purple
• The Vibe: Soft, but don’t underestimate it.

43. Juniper

• Meaning: Young
• The Vibe: Spunky. A modern take on the nature name.

44. Pearl

• Meaning: Pearl
• The Vibe: Precious. Ocean-inspired but elegant.

45. Ruby

• Meaning: Deep red precious stone
• The Vibe: Fire. Full of life.

46. Rosemary

• Meaning: Dew of the sea
• The Vibe: Kitchen garden vibes. Romy is a cute nickname.

47. Clementine

• Meaning: Mild, merciful
• The Vibe: Sweet. Distinct.

48. Wren

• Meaning: Small bird
• The Vibe: Tiny but loud.

49. Azalea

• Meaning: Dry
• The Vibe: If you watch the Masters, you know this one. Very Southern.

50. Camellia

• Meaning: Kamel’s flower
• The Vibe: Alabama’s state flower. Underrated and beautiful.

51. Delta

• Meaning: Mouth of a river
• The Vibe: Swampy in a good way. Bluesy.

52. River

• Meaning: Stream of water
• The Vibe: Flows easy. Works for boys or girls.

53. Savannah

• Meaning: Treeless plain
• The Vibe: (Yeah, it’s here again. It’s a place and a nature name. Deal with it.)

54. Summer

• Meaning: Season
• The Vibe: Warm sunshine.

55. Birdie

• Meaning: Bird
• The Vibe: Grandma cute.

56. Clover

• Meaning: Key
• The Vibe: Lucky. Green.

57. Fern

• Meaning: Fern
• The Vibe: Quiet. A little mysterious.

58. Flora

• Meaning: Flower
• The Vibe: Goddess of flowers. Classic.

59. Iris

• Meaning: Rainbow
• The Vibe: Colorful.

60. Jasmine

• Meaning: Gift from God
• The Vibe: Smells amazing in the summer evening.

61. Laurel

• Meaning: Bay laurel tree
• The Vibe: Dignified.

62. Lily

• Meaning: Pure
• The Vibe: Popular for a reason.

63. Myrtle

• Meaning: The tree
• The Vibe: “Grandma chic” to the max.

64. Poppy

• Meaning: Red flower
• The Vibe: Plucky. High energy.

65. Rose

• Meaning: Rose
• The Vibe: The middle name champion, but works as a first name too.

66. Sage

• Meaning: Wise
• The Vibe: Smart. Herbal.

67. Stella

• Meaning: Star
• The Vibe: A beauty.

68. Sylvia

• Meaning: Spirit of the wood
• The Vibe: Sounds like she lives in an enchanted forest.

69. Zinnia

• Meaning: Zinn’s flower
• The Vibe: Zesty. Unexpected.

70. Blossom

• Meaning: To bloom
• The Vibe: Sweet as sugar.

71. Coral

• Meaning: Marine invertebrate
• The Vibe: Beachy. Vintage.

72. Fawn

• Meaning: Young deer
• The Vibe: Gentle.

73. Holly

• Meaning: Holly tree
• The Vibe: Born in December? Here you go.

74. June

• Meaning: Month of June
• The Vibe: Retro sunshine.

75. May

• Meaning: The fifth month
• The Vibe: Simple spring.

Is it okay to use a last name as a first name?

Okay, this is a massive trend down here. It used to be you’d use your mama’s maiden name for your son. Now? All bets are off. We love giving girls names that sound tailored, professional, and a little preppy.

It works because it sounds established. A girl named Parker? She sounds like she’s already captain of the debate team. A girl named Sutton? She sounds like she owns the building.

76. Harper

• Meaning: Harp player
• The Vibe: Harper Lee wrote the book on the South. Literally. It’s royalty.

77. Parker

• Meaning: Park keeper
• The Vibe: Sporty. Upscale.

78. Sawyer

• Meaning: Woodcutter
• The Vibe: Tom Sawyer vibes. Adventurous.

79. Sutton

• Meaning: Southern homestead
• The Vibe: Trendy. Polished.

80. Collins

• Meaning: Son of Colin
• The Vibe: Huge right now. Reminds people of The Blind Side.

81. Kennedy

• Meaning: Misshapen head (Ignore that meaning; focus on the vibe)
• The Vibe: Presidential. Classic.

82. Carter

• Meaning: Transporter of goods
• The Vibe: Traditionally for boys, but adorable on a girl.

83. Emerson

• Meaning: Son of Emery
• The Vibe: Intellectual.

84. Avery

• Meaning: Ruler of the elves
• The Vibe: Gender-neutral favorite.

85. Quinn

• Meaning: Descendant of Conn
• The Vibe: Short. Smart.

86. Reese

• Meaning: Ardor
• The Vibe: Witherspoon. Enough said.

87. Taylor

• Meaning: Cutter of cloth
• The Vibe: 90s classic that stuck around.

88. Morgan

• Meaning: Sea circle
• The Vibe: Steady. Strong.

89. Jordan

• Meaning: Flowing down
• The Vibe: Athletic.

90. Peyton

• Meaning: Fighting-man’s estate
• The Vibe: Football country loves this name.

91. Hadley

• Meaning: Heather field
• The Vibe: Preppy fun.

92. Presley

• Meaning: Priest’s meadow
• The Vibe: Elvis. It’s always about Elvis.

93. Shelby

• Meaning: Willow grove
• The Vibe: Steel Magnolias made this a legend.

94. Ainsley

• Meaning: One’s own meadow
• The Vibe: Scottish roots, Southern heart.

95. Bailey

• Meaning: Bailiff
• The Vibe: Cheerful.

96. Cassidy

• Meaning: Curly-headed
• The Vibe: Cowgirl cool.

97. Delaney

• Meaning: Dark challenger
• The Vibe: Spunky Irish influence.

98. Ellis

• Meaning: Benevolent
• The Vibe: Soft and chic.

99. Finley

• Meaning: Fair warrior
• The Vibe: Playful.

100. Greer

• Meaning: Watchful
• The Vibe: Hollywood glamour.

101. Hayden

• Meaning: Hay field
• The Vibe: Nature-adjacent.

102. Kendall

• Meaning: Valley of the River Kent
• The Vibe: Sleek.

103. Lane

• Meaning: Small path
• The Vibe: Simple. Great middle name.

104. Leighton

• Meaning: Meadow town
• The Vibe: Sounds wealthy.

105. Madison

• Meaning: Son of Matthew
• The Vibe: Still going strong.

106. Merritt

• Meaning: Boundary gate
• The Vibe: Uncommon sophistication.

107. Palmer

• Meaning: Pilgrim
• The Vibe: The “It” girl name in Charleston right now.

108. Piper

• Meaning: Pipe player
• The Vibe: Energetic.

109. Reagan

• Meaning: Little King
• The Vibe: Political but popular.

110. Riley

• Meaning: Rye clearing
• The Vibe: Carefree.

111. Sloane

• Meaning: Raider
• The Vibe: Cool and serious.

112. Spencer

• Meaning: Steward
• The Vibe: Elegant.

113. Tatum

• Meaning: Tate’s homestead
• The Vibe: Channing Tatum put it on the map; works for girls too.

114. Teagan

• Meaning: Little poet
• The Vibe: Artsy.

115. Waverly

• Meaning: Meadow of quivering aspens
• The Vibe: Lyrical.

Why are we obsessed with “Old Lady” names?

Yes. 100% yes. If a name sounds like it belongs to a woman who knits afghans and bakes rhubarb pie, it is officially cool again. We call this the “Vintage Revival.” These names have texture. They feel lived-in.

I have a buddy named Mike. Big guy, drives a truck, looks like he could wrestle a bear. He named his daughter Hattie. I scratched my head at first. But then I met little Hattie, and she was a total firecracker. The name fit. It wasn’t dusty; it was classic.

116. Hattie

• Meaning: Estate ruler
• The Vibe: Vintage sass.

117. Mabel

• Meaning: Lovable
• The Vibe: Soft and cozy.

118. Elsie

• Meaning: Pledged to God
• The Vibe: Cute alternative to Ellie.

119. Ada

• Meaning: Noble
• The Vibe: Short, strong, palindrome.

120. Cora

• Meaning: Maiden
• The Vibe: Downton Abbey vibes.

121. Dorothy

• Meaning: Gift of God
• The Vibe: Dottie is an irresistible nickname.

122. Eleanor

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: First Lady energy.

123. Florence

• Meaning: Flourishing
• The Vibe: Flossie makes a great nickname.

124. Frances

• Meaning: From France/Free man
• The Vibe: Frankie is the coolest girl nickname around.

125. Helen

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: Serious classic.

126. Ida

• Meaning: Industrious
• The Vibe: Hardworking.

127. Lillian

• Meaning: Lily
• The Vibe: Formal beauty.

128. Louise

• Meaning: Renowned warrior
• The Vibe: Lulu makes it fun.

129. Martha

• Meaning: Lady
• The Vibe: Traditional.

130. Maude

• Meaning: Battle-mighty
• The Vibe: Bold.

131. Minnie

• Meaning: Of the mind/intellect
• The Vibe: Adorable.

132. Nora

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: Elegant simplicity.

133. Opal

• Meaning: Jewel
• The Vibe: 1920s gem.

134. Ruth

• Meaning: Companion
• The Vibe: Ruthie is darling.

135. Thea

• Meaning: Goddess
• The Vibe: Stands alone well.

136. Vera

• Meaning: Faith
• The Vibe: Serious beauty.

137. Viola

• Meaning: Violet
• The Vibe: Musical.

138. Willa

• Meaning: Resolute protection
• The Vibe: Gentle strength.

139. Winnie

• Meaning: Holy peacemaking
• The Vibe: Whimsical.

140. Etta

• Meaning: Estate ruler
• The Vibe: Soulful (Etta James).

141. Mamie

• Meaning: Pearl
• The Vibe: Very Southern.

142. Effie

• Meaning: Well-spoken
• The Vibe: Pure vintage.

143. Alma

• Meaning: Nourishing
• The Vibe: Deep soul.

144. Bessie

• Meaning: Pledged to God
• The Vibe: Cowgirl retro.

145. Bonnie

• Meaning: Pretty
• The Vibe: Gone with the Wind connection.

146. Dixie

• Meaning: Tenth
• The Vibe: Tied to the region.

147. Dolly

• Meaning: Gift of God
• The Vibe: The Queen Parton herself.

148. Esther

• Meaning: Star
• The Vibe: Biblical.

149. Faye

• Meaning: Loyalty
• The Vibe: Middle name magic.

150. Goldie

• Meaning: Made of gold
• The Vibe: Sunny.

What about naming her after a place on the map?

We love our land. We love our towns. Naming a kid after a Southern city or state is a solid way to pay homage to your roots without stealing your cousin’s last name.

151. Alabama

• Meaning: Vegetation gatherers
• The Vibe: Bold choice, deeply Southern.

152. Carolina

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: North or South, it works.

153. Charlotte

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: The Queen City.

154. Austin

• Meaning: Great
• The Vibe: Texas cool.

155. Dallas

• Meaning: Meadow dwelling
• The Vibe: Big hair, big dreams.

156. Houston

• Meaning: Hugh’s town
• The Vibe: Distinct.

157. Raleigh

• Meaning: Roe deer’s meadow
• The Vibe: Soft.

158. Augusta

• Meaning: Great, magnificent
• The Vibe: Golf and old money.

159. Alexandria

• Meaning: Defender of men
• The Vibe: Virginia classic.

160. Abilene

• Meaning: Grass
• The Vibe: Country song.

161. Macon

• Meaning: Mason/Worker
• The Vibe: Georgia gem.

162. Monroe

• Meaning: Mouth of the river
• The Vibe: Louisiana style.

163. Montgomery

• Meaning: Man power
• The Vibe: Monty is cute.

164. Nola

• Meaning: White shoulder (New Orleans)
• The Vibe: Jazz and beignets.

165. Selma

• Meaning: Helmet of God
• The Vibe: Historic.

166. Tennessee

• Meaning: Meeting place
• The Vibe: Reese Witherspoon’s pick.

167. Virginia

• Meaning: Pure
• The Vibe: For lovers.

168. Helena

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: Arkansas capital.

169. Katy

• Meaning: Pure
• The Vibe: Texas town.

170. Marietta

• Meaning: Star of the sea
• The Vibe: Lovely Atlanta suburb.

Want something with a little kick to it?

Sometimes you don’t want a “Belle.” You want a firecracker. You want a name for a girl who is going to climb the magnolia tree in her Sunday best and not care if she rips her tights.

171. Scout

• Meaning: To listen
• The Vibe: To Kill a Mockingbird. The ultimate tomboy name.

172. Tallulah

• Meaning: Leaping water
• The Vibe: Dramatic fun.

173. Dixie

• Meaning: Tenth
• The Vibe: Sassy.

174. Roxy

• Meaning: Dawn
• The Vibe: Punchy.

175. Trixie

• Meaning: Bringer of joy
• The Vibe: Playful.

176. Lulu

• Meaning: Famous warrior
• The Vibe: High energy.

177. Jojo

• Meaning: God is gracious
• The Vibe: Fun nickname.

178. Sassy

• Meaning: Bold
• The Vibe: Literal sass.

179. Birdie

• Meaning: Bird
• The Vibe: Sweet but active.

180. Cricket

• Meaning: Insect
• The Vibe: Busy and loud.

181. Kit

• Meaning: Pure
• The Vibe: Sharp.

182. Pepper

• Meaning: Berry
• The Vibe: Spicy.

183. Sunny

• Meaning: Sun
• The Vibe: Optimistic.

184. Penny

• Meaning: Weaver
• The Vibe: Valuable.

185. Boots

• Meaning: Footwear
• The Vibe: Total Southern nickname.

What are the hidden gems? (Alphabetical Mix)

We are aiming for a massive list here, so let’s dive into the deep cuts. These are names you might hear shouted across a church picnic or read in the local paper. Some are Biblical, some are modern, but they all fit the bill for Southern girl names with meanings.

186. Adeline

• Meaning: Noble
• The Vibe: Sweet “Addie” works for a toddler or a grandma. Timeless.

187. Althea

• Meaning: With healing power
• The Vibe: A little mysterious, very elegant.

188. Amaryllis

• Meaning: To sparkle
• The Vibe: A showstopper flower name.

189. Anniston

• Meaning: Agnes’ town
• The Vibe: Modern surname style, made famous by Jennifer.

190. Arabella

• Meaning: Yielding to prayer
• The Vibe: Frilly, fancy, and beautiful.

191. Arden

• Meaning: Valley of the eagle
• The Vibe: Literary and outdoorsy.

192. Arlene

• Meaning: Pledge
• The Vibe: A total retro comeback waiting to happen.

193. Aspen

• Meaning: Quaking tree
• The Vibe: Nature name with a snowy edge.

194. Aubrey

• Meaning: Elf ruler
• The Vibe: Soft but strong. Very popular in the South.

195. Bama

• Meaning: Son of prophecy (short for Alabama)
• The Vibe: Roll Tide. That’s the vibe.

196. Bay

• Meaning: Sea inlet
• The Vibe: Short, beachy, and cool.

197. Belle

• Meaning: Beautiful
• The Vibe: The literal definition of a Southern name.

198. Bethany

• Meaning: House of figs
• The Vibe: Biblical classic that never goes out of style.

199. Betty

• Meaning: Pledged to God
• The Vibe: Reynolds. White. Icons only.

200. Billie

• Meaning: Resolute protection
• The Vibe: Boyish charm on a girl. Very trendy.

201. Blair

• Meaning: Dweller on the plain
• The Vibe: Preppy and polished.

202. Blake

• Meaning: Fair-haired / Dark
• The Vibe: Lively Lively made this huge for girls.

203. Blythe

• Meaning: Free spirit
• The Vibe: Happy and carefree.

204. Bobbie

• Meaning: Bright fame
• The Vibe: High ponytail energy.

205. Briar

• Meaning: Thorny patch
• The Vibe: Fairytale sleeping beauty vibes.

206. Brooke

• Meaning: Small stream
• The Vibe: 90s cool girl.

207. Cadence

• Meaning: Rhythm
• The Vibe: Musical and modern.

208. Calla

• Meaning: Beautiful
• The Vibe: Like the lily. Elegant.

209. Callie

• Meaning: Beautiful
• The Vibe: The ultimate friendly girl name.

210. Cambria

• Meaning: The people
• The Vibe: Unique place name.

211. Camille

• Meaning: Perfect
• The Vibe: French sophistication with Southern roots.

212. Campbell

• Meaning: Crooked mouth (Scottish surname)
• The Vibe: Forget the meaning; it sounds rich and established.

213. Casey

• Meaning: Vigilant
• The Vibe: Sporty and fun.

214. Cass

• Meaning: Man’s defender
• The Vibe: Short, punchy, no nonsense.

215. Celia

• Meaning: Heavenly
• The Vibe: Lighter than Cecilia, very sweet.

216. Charlene

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: A little bit country song.

217. Cheyenne

• Meaning: People of a different language
• The Vibe: Western cowgirl spirit.

218. Clarabelle

• Meaning: Bright and beautiful
• The Vibe: Cow-bell cute. Very vintage.

219. Colette

• Meaning: People of victory
• The Vibe: Coco is a darling nickname.

220. Connie

• Meaning: Constancy
• The Vibe: Steadfast and retro.

221. Cordelia

• Meaning: Heart
• The Vibe: Anne of Green Gables fans, rise up.

222. Corinne

• Meaning: Maiden
• The Vibe: Soft and underused.

223. Dakota

• Meaning: Friend
• The Vibe: North or South, it’s a solid name.

224. Daphne

• Meaning: Laurel
• The Vibe: Bridgerton brought it back, but we always loved it.

225. Darlene

• Meaning: Darling
• The Vibe: It literally means darling. Can’t beat that.

226. Davina

• Meaning: Beloved
• The Vibe: Scottish flair.

227. Delilah

• Meaning: Delicate
• The Vibe: Beautiful song name (Hey There Delilah).

228. Dixie

• Meaning: Tenth
• The Vibe: Unapologetically Southern.

229. Dorothy

• Meaning: Gift of God
• The Vibe: Follow the yellow brick road.

230. Eden

• Meaning: Place of pleasure
• The Vibe: Paradise.

231. Edith

• Meaning: Prosperous in war
• The Vibe: Edie makes this vintage name feel fresh.

232. Eileen

• Meaning: Bright, shining one
• The Vibe: Classic warmth.

233. Elaine

• Meaning: Bright, shining one
• The Vibe: Seinfeld made it funny, but it’s actually elegant.

234. Eleanor

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: Serious, smart, and strong.

235. Elodie

• Meaning: Foreign riches
• The Vibe: Melodic and French.

236. Eloise

• Meaning: Healthy
• The Vibe: At the Plaza or on the porch.

237. Ember

• Meaning: Spark
• The Vibe: Fiery and modern.

238. Emery

• Meaning: Industrious
• The Vibe: Hardworking and stylish.

239. Emily

• Meaning: Rival
• The Vibe: A classic for a reason.

240. Etta

• Meaning: Estate ruler
• The Vibe: Short, soulful, perfect.

241. Eugenia

• Meaning: Well-born
• The Vibe: Skeeter from The Help.

242. Evangeline

• Meaning: Bearer of good news
• The Vibe: Long, romantic, and Cajun roots.

243. Evelyn

• Meaning: Desired
• The Vibe: Evie is the cutest nickname in the book.

244. Faith

• Meaning: Trust
• The Vibe: Simple virtue name.

245. Fallon

• Meaning: Leader
• The Vibe: Dynasty drama (the good kind).

246. Felicity

• Meaning: Happiness
• The Vibe: Spunky American Girl doll vibes.

247. Flannery

• Meaning: Red eyebrows
• The Vibe: Literary giant (O’Connor). Deeply Southern.

248. Genevieve

• Meaning: Tribe woman
• The Vibe: A mouthful of beauty.

249. Georgette

• Meaning: Farmer
• The Vibe: The feminine form of George. Very chic.

250. Ginny

• Meaning: Virgin/Maiden
• The Vibe: Harry Potter made it fiery.

251. Grace

• Meaning: Gracious
• The Vibe: The ultimate middle name, but strong alone.

252. Gracie

• Meaning: Gracious
• The Vibe: Just a little more playful than Grace.

253. Gwendolyn

• Meaning: White ring
• The Vibe: Gwen is cool; Gwendolyn is regal.

254. Hallie

• Meaning: Dweller at the meadow
• The Vibe: Parent Trap! Sweet and fun.

255. Hannah

• Meaning: Grace
• The Vibe: Palindrome perfection.

256. Harlow

• Meaning: Rock hill
• The Vibe: Hollywood glam.

257. Harmony

• Meaning: Perfect unity
• The Vibe: Musical and peaceful.

258. Hattie

• Meaning: Estate ruler
• The Vibe: Vintage sass bucket.

259. Haven

• Meaning: Safe place
• The Vibe: Gentle and protecting.

260. Heidi

• Meaning: Noble
• The Vibe: Swiss Alps or Southern hills.

261. Henrietta

• Meaning: Estate ruler
• The Vibe: Etta or Hattie hides inside this big name.

262. Hope

• Meaning: Expectation
• The Vibe: Optimistic virtue.

263. Imogen

• Meaning: Maiden
• The Vibe: Distinctive and lovely.

264. India

• Meaning: From the River Indus
• The Vibe: Ashley Wilkes’ sister in Gone with the Wind.

265. Isla

• Meaning: Island
• The Vibe: Short, sweet, and incredibly popular.

266. Ivy

• Meaning: Vine
• The Vibe: Clings to your heart.

267. Jane

• Meaning: God is gracious
• The Vibe: Nothing plain about it.

268. Jean

• Meaning: God is gracious
• The Vibe: Denim or Marilyn. Both icons.

269. Jenna

• Meaning: White shadow
• The Vibe: Bush twin energy.

270. Jessie

• Meaning: Wealthy
• The Vibe: Toy Story cowgirl.

271. Jewel

• Meaning: Plaything/Delight
• The Vibe: Precious stone.

272. Jolene

• Meaning: God will increase
• The Vibe: Don’t let her take your man. (Dolly!)

273. Josie

• Meaning: Jehovah increases
• The Vibe: The pussycats. Fun and loud.

274. Joy

• Meaning: Happiness
• The Vibe: Short and sweet.

275. Judith

• Meaning: Woman of Judea
• The Vibe: Judy is a great retro nickname.

276. Julia

• Meaning: Youthful
• The Vibe: Designing Women. Classy.

277. June

• Meaning: Young
• The Vibe: June Carter Cash. Country royalty.

278. Kaylee

• Meaning: Crown/Beloved
• The Vibe: Modern country.

279. Lacey

• Meaning: From Lassy
• The Vibe: Delicate like lace.

280. Lady

• Meaning: Noblewoman
• The Vibe: A title as a name. Bold.

281. Lark

• Meaning: Bird
• The Vibe: Happy morning song.

282. Layla

• Meaning: Night
• The Vibe: Clapton rock anthem.

283. Leah

• Meaning: Weary
• The Vibe: Biblical and soft.

284. Leanne

• Meaning: Gracious meadow
• The Vibe: Country star vibes.

285. Leslie

• Meaning: Garden of holly
• The Vibe: Knope or generic, still solid.

286. Libby

• Meaning: Pledged to God
• The Vibe: The cutest short form of Elizabeth.

287. Lila

• Meaning: Night
• The Vibe: Southern belle classic.

288. Loretta

• Meaning: Laurel
• The Vibe: Lynn. Coal miner’s daughter. Legend.

289. Lorna

• Meaning: Fox
• The Vibe: Doone. Literary.

290. Lottie

• Meaning: Free man
• The Vibe: Short for Charlotte, stands alone nicely.

291. Lucinda

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: Williams. Americana music queen.

292. Lucy

• Meaning: Light
• The Vibe: I Love Lucy. Funny and red-headed energy.

293. Lydia

• Meaning: Woman from Lydia
• The Vibe: Biblical purple seller.

294. Lynn

• Meaning: Lake
• The Vibe: The universal middle name.

295. Madeline

• Meaning: High tower
• The Vibe: Old house in Paris, or a Southern mansion.

296. Maeve

• Meaning: She who intoxicates
• The Vibe: Irish warrior queen.

297. Maisie

• Meaning: Pearl
• The Vibe: Scottish sweetie.

298. Mallory

• Meaning: Unfortunate
• The Vibe: Ignore the meaning; it sounds rich.

299. Marcella

• Meaning: Warlike
• The Vibe: Unique and beautiful.

300. Marigold

• Meaning: Golden flower
• The Vibe: Sunny and bright.

So, how do you actually pick one?

Look, staring at 300 names is enough to make you cross-eyed. I get it. When we were narrowing it down, we printed our top ten out and taped them to the fridge. We lived with them for a week. We practiced shouting them up the stairs—that is a crucial test for any parent, by the way.

Ask yourself the hard questions: Does this name sound good with your last name? Does it honor a family member you actually like? Does it give you that warm, fuzzy feeling when you say it out loud?

For more data on which of these names are trending up or down, check out the Social Security Administration’s baby name database. It’s a great tool to see if “Harper” is too popular for your taste or if “Mabel” is just unique enough.

Naming a girl is big. You are defining her introduction to the world. But if you pick from this list, you are giving her a head start. You are giving her a name with roots, with charm, and with a whole lot of heart. And that, my friends, is what the South is all about.

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