10 Italian Names You Never Thought of Using: Boys

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Today's Italian boys names aren't quite Romeos, but they have something even better--scarce usage. That being said, they do have their charms, and some are quite romantic. Take a look, and let me know what you think.

Alessio- Alessio is the Italian form of Alexis. He's not quite as dramatic as Alessandro, although if you like both, Alessio would work as a nickname.

Aurelio- You've likely heard of Aurelia, the Latin girls name steadily rising up the charts, but what about Aurelio? This just as attractive Italian name hasn't caught on for the boys yet. If you're a fan of color related names, Aurelio means "the golden one."

Brio- Brio is a unisex name in Italy, but the -o ending (rather than an "A") sounds more masculine to the American ear. Brio is a musical name, the definition being "vigor or vivacity of style or performance." He's an uncommon yet alluring music name--a difficult combination to find.

Carlo- With the popularity of Charlie, Charles, and Carlos being so high, it baffles me that Carlo isn't even in the top 1000. That puts him in the "uncommon yet familiar" category--a sacred place of baby name gems. Use them, and nobody will call you crazy, but there also won't be another one on your block.

Cassio- Cassio is a handsome Shakespearean name, coming from the play Othello. He's the Italian version of Cassius, so Cash could be a nickname if you so choose. Cassio's feminine form is Cassia--a cinnamon-like spice and modern day Cassandra.

Cecilio- Like his sister name Cecilia, Cecilio unfortunately means "blind." But that hasn't stopped thousands of parents each year from using them. Meanings aren't often talked about--or even known--so this is a minor issue, at most. Cecilio is very fashionable, and has a gentlemanly Italian feel.

Cosimo- Cosimo is a charming, sophisticated name waiting to be discovered. He comes from Cosmo, a more antiquated Italian choice. Cosimo means "the universe," perfect for night-sky loving parents.

Nino- Ooh, Nino! Ever since I watched the movie Amelie (one of my favorites) I swoon every time I see the name. Nino is a lovely, nickname style name that's gaining favor in many European countries (#26 in Switzerland!). He works as a nickname for any -nino name, but is just as delightful on his own.

Pellegrino- Pellegrino may remind people of the elegant bubbly water, but is that such a terrible association? He comes from Peregrine, which means "traveller" or "pilgrim," and is also a type of bird. Nino would make a cute nickname. If you need convincing, see above.

Silvio- Silvio is a common name in many parts of Europe, but unsurprisingly is most used in his country of origin--Italy. With Sylvia and Silvia increasing in popularity in the U.S., Silvio makes a friendly and usable option for a boy.

10 B Names You Never Thought of Using: Boys

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Time for the boys! None of these are in the top 1000, which is perfect if you are looking for a unique name. In my opinion, some of the best boys names are short and sweet, which is what many of the names listed turned out to be. I tried to include something for everybody, but they all turned out to be two syllables or fewer. Oh well, enjoy!

Baird- A lovely choice, so long as you don't call your daughter Bird.

Banning- It's not often that you find a name ending in -ing. Banning is one that works.

Barlow- Marlowe, Harlow, Charlot, all the -low names are coming back, why not add Barlow to the list?

Bauer- An occupational surname meaning farmer that would make a good choice regardless of your job.

Beacon- He shares sounds with Reese Witherspoon's Deacon, yet has a calming, nature-ish feel.

Beal- It will remind people of Ally McBeal, but that's not a bad thing.

Birch- Hands down the best tree name.

Boone-A fun hero name. Decorate his nursery with a woodland theme.

Brio- Brio fits in with names like Leo and Theo, but is way more unique.

Burke- Preppy names are coming back, Burke should be in consideration.