I like
Alyssa. First heard it in the 80s when my neighbor named her baby
Alyssa. It was unheard-of, but never seemed trendy or made-up to me.
It's prettier than any short form of
Elizabeth ever. I guess it's supposed to be based on
Alicia, but to me, it seems as much based on
Elise.
Just a really pretty, modest name. I admire it on other people - I don't think I'd use it myself.
I think
Alyssa looks better than
Alissa. The -issa has a chillier feeling, less flower-y.
I love
Melissa as well. Overused, but gorgeous and sweet. Not as prissy as other -issa names.
- mirfak