Upworthy
Professional baby namer lists the most popular '80s girls' names that did not a…
Bad news for the Heathers and Ashleys of the world.
3k
18k
1k
982k
From Heather to Jennifer: Unpacking the 80s Girl Names That Did (and Didn't) Stand the Test of Time
A recent social media video by popular name consultant Colleen, known as NamingBebe, has sparked a lively discussion by examining the shifting landscape of popular baby names. The video highlights girl names from 1986 that have dramatically fallen out of favor, with many no longer ranking in the top 1,000. Colleen meticulously reviewed the top 100 girl names from 1986, identifying those that have become 'time-stamped.' Among the names she singled out for their steep decline were Heather, Tiffany, Erica, Courtney, Shannon, Tara, Crystal, Casey, Brandy, and Dana. 'Sorry Heathers,' Colleen quipped, noting that Heather is now 'officially out.' Conversely, she pointed out names like Jennifer, Jessica, Ashley, and Stephanie, which, despite their 1980s peak, have demonstrated remarkable staying power, still ranking within the top 1,000, and some even in the top 500. Jennifer, for instance, was a top 100 name until 2008 and still ranks at 502. Andrea, surprisingly, ranks high at 155. The video has resonated with many, prompting viewers to share their own experiences. One commenter, a '1985 Jessica,' noted, 'Every girl in my class was either Jessica, Jennifer, or Ashley.' Another, born in 1981, recalled, 'You don’t understand how BADLY I wanted to be a Heather when I was little.' The discussion underscores the cyclical nature of name trends and the nostalgic sentiments they evoke.
