Dannielynn Birkhead, the daughter of late model Anna Nicole Smith and photographer Larry Birkhead, is making waves with her unique sense of style. The 19-year-old showcased her fresh look at the annual Barnstable Brown Derby Eve party, where she delighted attendees with a striking gothic ensemble.
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Accompanied by her father, Larry Birkhead, Dannielynn turned heads in a sophisticated Gothic dress from Punk Rave. The stunning outfit featured a strapless corseted gown adorned with embroidery and complemented by a sheer draped skirt. Her hair was equally striking, styled in “super iced platinum with jet black tips,” creating an edgy appeal that resonated with the goth rock theme she embraced for the occasion.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Larry expressed his admiration for his daughter’s evolving identity. “People are always looking for her to wear something of her mum. She’s done that a couple of times, but this is really about Dannielynn showcasing her own style,” he explained, noting that this particular outfit offered a significant departure from the bright colours she has previously donned at similar events.
Dannielynn has been crafting her own image, and both she and Larry described her latest look as a reflection of her personality. Larry recounted how Dannielynn approached him about wanting a style that was “edgy and cool.” To achieve this, they enlisted the help of one of her mother’s former friends, who is a hairstylist. “She chopped it all off and put some wild colours in it,” Larry said, revealing his initial hesitation but ultimately supporting his daughter’s choices.
This year marks a pivotal moment in Dannielynn’s style journey. Larry noted, “This year is a different style for her. It’s sort of her coming into her own.” He mentioned the challenges of coordinating her look as she was also focused on her schooling, especially with final exams on the horizon. “I had to help send pictures back and forth, and eventually, she emphatically told me, ‘Quit bothering me, I’m in finals!’” he recalled with a chuckle.
In a role reversal, Dannielynn took on the role of stylist for her father as well. Larry arrived at the event wearing a flamboyant black blazer embellished with crystals and featuring glittering lightning bolt lapels, courtesy of designer Philipp Plein. “She said I needed to up my fashion game and that I had no sense of style,” Larry joked, highlighting the playful dynamic between them.
Larry’s outfit was a bold choice compared to his previous ensembles. “It’s very wild for me,” he admitted, showcasing how Dannielynn’s influence is shaping not just her style but also the fashion choices of those around her.
Dannielynn’s life has been shaped by the legacy of her mother, who passed away from an accidental drug overdose in 2007. Despite the tragic loss, she has found ways to honour Anna Nicole’s memory, such as wearing her mother’s gowns to prominent events like the Derby. Larry has previously emphasised the importance of remembering Anna as a caring and generous person, adding depth to the public’s understanding of her legacy.
In a heartfelt interview in 2021, on the 14th anniversary of Anna Nicole Smith’s death, Larry underscored the significance of both preserving and celebrating his daughter’s heritage. He spoke warmly of Anna Nicole, describing her as a “beautiful lady who loved her fans and family.”
As Dannielynn steps into adulthood, she is not only discovering her own style but also paying tribute to the complex narrative of her family’s journey. The Barnstable Brown Derby Eve party served as an avenue for this young woman to express her individuality and assert her identity, all while carrying the enduring spirit of her mother with her.