Should we choose a gender-neutral name?
The case for picking a name that lets your child grow into who they are.
Gender-neutral names — Avery, Sage, Quinn, Rowan, River, Wren — have surged for a reason. They work for any child, and they free your kid from being slotted into a category before they take their first breath.
Flexibility for an entire life
A name is the first thing on every résumé, application, and email signature your child will ever send. A neutral name reads professional regardless of who's reading it, and it lets your child shape their own identity without the friction of changing names later. Names like Harper and Ellis have crossed comfortably between boy and girl lists for years.
Reduced bias in hiring
Multiple studies have shown that recruiters make snap assumptions based on a name alone — about gender, ethnicity, age. Neutral names sidestep some of that, giving the résumé itself a chance to speak first.
Style and originality
Many of the most beloved literary and cinematic characters carry neutral names. They sound modern without trying too hard. Browse the nature category for a steady supply — Sage, River, Wren, and Rowan all live there.
The popularity story
Neutral names are climbing. Compare the top neutral names in 2021 with 2025 and you'll see steady momentum, not a fad. Quinn in particular has crossed gender lines decisively.
Ready to browse? Start with our full gender-neutral collection.