Am I still Mrs if I don't take my husband's last name?

Does "Mrs." Depend on Your Last Name?

Getting married doesn’t automatically mean you have to change your name—and just as importantly, it doesn’t affect your title. If you choose to keep your maiden name after marriage, you’re still perfectly entitled to be called “Mrs.” if that’s what you prefer.

Traditionally, “Mrs.” has been used as a formal title for married women, regardless of whether they adopt their spouse’s last name. The title itself signifies marital status, not a name change. So even if you continue using your birth name professionally or personally, “Mrs.” remains a valid and respectful option.

Many women maintain the title long after life changes—like divorce or the loss of a spouse—because it reflects their identity and history. Others might switch to “Ms.” for personal or philosophical reasons, especially if they value a title that doesn’t define them by marital status. But there’s no rulebook: it’s ultimately about personal choice.

What matters most is respect. If you're unsure how someone prefers to be addressed, the simplest approach is to ask. A quick, “How would you like to be addressed?” avoids assumptions and honors individual preference.

In a world where women’s roles and identities continue to evolve, so do the ways we use titles. Whether you're Mrs., Ms., or something else entirely, the right title is the one you choose to wear.