How Caitlyn Jenner chose her new name
What's in a name? For Caitlyn Jenner, it was years of consideration, research and consultation.
In a follow-up to her groundbreaking coming-out in July's Vanity Fair, VF.com queried another important question -- just how did Jenner go about replacing "Bruce" with the name "Caitlyn"?
"It was one of the hardest things in life--choosing your own name," Jenner said of her experience selecting the right first name, which began two years ago. She began by looking for inspiration among Miss America pageant contestants, searching for women whose profiles inspired her and reminded her of herself. Among some of the potential names were Heather and Cathy, but Caitlyn remained at the top of her list.
Then, one day, her assistant Rhoda independently suggested Caitlyn.
"I love that name, too!" Jenner said. The coincidence seemed fateful.
For the spelling of the name, the issue of using a "C" or "K" did not come lightly, due to Jenner's connection with the Kardashian family -- famous for their tradition of first names (and personal brands) beginning with "K."
Ultimately, Jenner opted to break with tradition and went with "C," asserting her independence and creating differentiation from the Kardashian's commercial brand.