Dannielynn Birkhead appears at the Kentucky Derby with a bold new hairstyle and stylish outfit, drawing attention as she showcases her unique fashion sense at the popular annual event. Getty Images
Dannielynn Birkhead, daughter of Anna Nicole Smith and Larry Birkhead, made a striking appearance at the 2026 Kentucky Derby with a bold new look that drew attention on and off the red carpet.
A Fresh and Edgy Look
The 19-year-old arrived at Churchill Downs on May 2 wearing a black-and-white floral dress designed by Mac Duggal. She paired the outfit with a dramatic new hairstyle—platinum blonde hair with black tips—which added a sharp, modern edge to her overall appearance.
Speaking at the event, Larry Birkhead shared that his daughter had many ideas for her look this year. He said she finalized her outfit while managing her college exams, showing her commitment to both her studies and personal style.
“I guess she was going for what could she do with her dark, edgy hairstyle and still make it match,” he said. “I think she pulled it off.”
Larry, dressed in a white suit with a black shirt, joked that he was “just an accessory” to his daughter’s standout look.
Expressing Individual Style
Dannielynn explained that she enjoys experimenting with her appearance and plans to continue doing so. She said she loves trying “cool and crazy” hairstyles and does not intend to return to her previous look anytime soon.
“It’s probably going to be cool and crazy for the rest of my life,” she said, adding that she was pleasantly surprised by the positive reactions she received.
She also joked that she did not expect so many people to like her bold style, saying that many people tend to play it safe with their appearance.
Derby Weekend Highlights
In addition to her appearance at the derby, Dannielynn attended the Barnstable Brown Derby Eve party on May 1 with her father. At the event, she wore a gothic-inspired outfit featuring a corseted gown and sheer skirt, continuing her edgy fashion theme.
Larry noted that this year marked a shift in his daughter’s style. While she has previously worn outfits inspired by her late mother, this time she chose to highlight her own personality and fashion sense.
“This is kind of Dannielynn showing off her own sense of style,” he said, describing it as a “goth-rock theme.”
Celebrity Encounters
During the derby weekend, Dannielynn also met several well-known personalities, including Brian Quinn and Patti LaBelle.
Larry shared a lighthearted moment about being invited on stage by Patti LaBelle to sing and dance. He joked that his daughter teased him about his performance, saying he needed to improve his skills.
“She’s given me a lot of grief today,” he said with a laugh. “Teenagers—you just can’t catch a break.”
A Growing Public Presence
Dannielynn, who was born in 2006, has attended the Kentucky Derby with her father for several years. Her appearance continues to draw public interest, as many follow her journey and evolving personal style.
