Anna Nicole Smith and Larry Birkhead’s Daughter Dannielynn Wears Black-and-White Look at Kentucky Derby to Match ‘Edgy’ Hairstyle

**Dannielynn Birkhead Dazzles at the 2026 Kentucky Derby with Edgy New Look**

Dannielynn Birkhead, the 19-year-old daughter of the late model Anna Nicole Smith and Larry Birkhead, made a striking appearance at the 2026 Kentucky Derby held on 2 May in Louisville, Kentucky. Choosing a truly contemporary style, Danneylin unveiled a bold platinum blonde hairstyle accented with black tips, perfectly complementing her elegant black-and-white floral dress by designer Mac Duggal.

The young fashionista, who has frequently showcased her individuality, expressed her excitement about her new hairstyle in an interview with PEOPLE. “It’s probably going to be cool and crazy for the rest of my life,” she declared, highlighting her desire to embrace unique and striking looks as she matures.

Speaking to reporters on the red carpet, her father, Larry Birkhead, shared that the decision for Dannielynn’s outfit was far from straightforward. With “a million” ideas in mind, she had to make her final choices amid the stress of upcoming college final exams. Larry, sporting a white suit paired with a black shirt, jokingly remarked that he was merely an accessory to his daughter’s ensemble. “I think she pulled it off,” he added, impressed by Dannielynn’s ability to blend her edgy hairstyle with an equally chic dress.

Dannielynn’s confidence in her bold look was evident, as she indicated her intention to continue exploring unconventional styles. “I got a lot of compliments on my hair, and it made me happy because I don’t mean to offend anyone, but a lot of people are kind of boring,” she said jokingly. Her views signal a desire to express her personality through her appearance, unafraid of standing out in a crowd.

In the lead-up to the derby, Dannielynn had the chance to rub shoulders with some of her favourite celebrities. She enthusiastically shared moments spent with the likes of Brian “Q” Quinn from “Impractical Jokers” and legendary singer Patti LaBelle. Interestingly, the night’s entertainment saw Patti calling Larry on stage, leading to some humorous banter about his singing abilities. “She’s given me a lot of grief today, and told me I need to improve on my singing and dancing,” Larry quipped, reflecting the playful dynamic of their father-daughter relationship.

The fashionable duo also attended the Barnstable Brown Derby Eve party, where both showcased their punk-inspired outfits. For the event, Dannielynn wore a stunning Gothic dress from Punk Rave, featuring a strapless embroidered corset coupled with a flowing sheer skirt. Larry sported an eye-catching black suit adorned with rhinestones and a lightning bolt motif, emphasising their coordinated aesthetic.

Larry noted that this year’s Derby was significant for Dannielynn, signalling a moment of personal expression beyond the legacy of her mother. “People are always looking for her to wear something of her mum, and she’s done that a couple of times,” Larry mentioned. “But this is kind of Dannielynn showing off her own sense of style, and she said it’s a goth-rock theme.” This well-defined personal style marks a clear evolution in Dannielynn’s journey toward self-identity.

In discussing her future ambitions, Dannielynn, who has recently completed her final exams, revealed her plans to pursue a degree in forensic science. She expressed interest in possibly doubling her major to include culinary studies, particularly due to her passion for baking. “I might double major, possibly, in something regarding culinary, because I love baking,” she elaborated enthusiastically.

Proud of her daughter’s academic achievements, Larry expressed his full support of her choices, whether that includes following in her mother’s footsteps or forging her own path in fields of her choosing. “I’m excited for her to just follow any path that she wants,” he stated, underscoring a supportive and nurturing parental approach.

As Dannielynn continues to navigate her formative years amidst public attention, her unique style and ambitious academic plans depict a young woman determined to carve out her own identity, blending individuality with respect for her family’s legacy. The 2026 Kentucky Derby not only showcased her chic fashion sense but also highlighted a bright future ahead filled with creativity and ambition.