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Baby names

Find baby name inspiration and advice on the Mumsnet Baby Names forum.

Original poster

Karla?

36 replies

CandCand · 26/04/2026 13:37

What are your thoughts on Karla? It's our favourite at the moment. I know that some will prefer Carla, but my DH is German, so we would spell it with a K (as that's the traditional spelling to him). I'm aware that there will still be people who will incorrectly assume that we were trying to be "unique" when they see the spelling. 😅

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HelenaWilson · 26/04/2026 14:34

It makes me think of Le Carre but this will mean very little to her peers.

My first thought too!

Loures · 26/04/2026 14:29

I actually prefer Karla. It is the original spelling of the name and comes from the Germanic male name Karl. Carl and Carla are variants that came later but are more common/popular in some countries.

ToadRage · 26/04/2026 14:05

I don't like it but that's probably the memories i have of a girl called Carla, I do however like Carly.

Upin · 26/04/2026 13:59

Either spelling is fine. The people that shout about it being unacceptable to spell a name with a K are typically snobs. They think that K names are chavvy and too associated with the Kardashians (actual things that I have seen MN posters say).

PurpleNightingale · 26/04/2026 13:59

Is your surname german sounding? I think say Karla Schmidt would make much more sense than say Karla Smith.

StrictlyAFemaleFemale · 26/04/2026 13:58

Tis the name of my most wonderful girl guide leader colleague!

Cornishmumofone · 26/04/2026 13:56

I have a Spanish colleague called Karla, so I’m assuming the spelling isn’t uncommon elsewhere in Europe.

CeleriacRoot · 26/04/2026 13:55

It makes me think of Le Carre but this will mean very little to her peers.

Pugglywuggly · 26/04/2026 13:53

I had that exact thought (incorrect spelling, trying to be different, lovely name but needs a C) when I saw the title of your thread. I understand the logic of a K, but she'll spend her whole life correcting people.

Enko · 26/04/2026 13:44

Karla is great and people will learn to spell it with a K.

Its in my opinion absolutely toss its preferable in the UK with a C . People learn how to spell childrens names even with bog standard names like Claire/Clare/Clair or Kathleen/Kathlynn/Katheryn /Katharine and Kathrine,

Keeping her German roots imo is also important and the K is a good nod to this.

Myfridgeiscool · 26/04/2026 13:39

Carla with a C preferable if you live in the UK, if you’re living in Germany K.