Carried by more than 107,000 French women in 2025, Colette is an emblematic first name of the 20th century which again seduced by its musicality and its strength. Celebrated on March 6, this pioneer of the Belle Époque returns in grace, haloed by history, literature and character.
A historical and bright first name
According to The first names 2025 (First Éditions), Colette is one of those so -called “Belle Époque” names, in the same way as Louise, Marguerite or Apolline. Derived from Nicole, it means “victory of the people” in Greek, and imposed itself in the 1930s as one of the most popular female names in France. In 1937, he reached 6th place in the charts, before gradually fading from the 1950s, like many first names at the end -ette. However, like Violette or Juliet, Colette finds a new breath today.
The revenge of first names in -ette
The retro charm of these ancient names again appeals to young parents. Guillemette, Paulette, Suzette or Odette find their place in the birth registers. Colette, she, is illustrated by her sober elegance and her sound, both sweet and guaranteed. With more than 107,000 people named in France in 2025, she still appears in the top 400 female first names. And for good reason: its aura is carried by strong values, such as leadership, ardor and strategy – so many character traits noted in its characterology.
A literary and female icon
Impossible to speak of Colette without evoking the illustrious figure of the French novelist of the same name. Author of Dear And Budding wheatthis free and rebellious woman alone embodies the spirit of her first name. In turn journalist, Mime, actress, Colette led her life on the sidelines of conventions, carried by an unquenchable thirst for freedom. She is also the first woman to have received national funerals in France – an honor at the height of her literary heritage and her influence.