Louisville, Kentucky — The 2025 Kentucky Derby Weekend kicked off with a touching tribute to the past, as 18-year-old Dannielynn Birkhead donned a stunning black halter dress originally worn by her mother, the late Anna Nicole Smith, at the same event in 2004. The emotional moment underscores the bond between Dannielynn and her late mother, who passed away in 2007.
Dannielynn’s father, Larry Birkhead, shared the moment on social media, expressing his pride and nostalgia as they attended the Barnstable-Brown Gala. “Life full circle,” he captioned a picture of the duo. Dannielynn explained her choice, stating she felt a connection to her mother through the dress, describing it as “super cool.”
The gown features a plunging neckline with sparkling embellishments, perfectly complementing Dannielynn’s soft updo, reminiscent of her mother’s iconic early 2000s style. As she walked the red carpet, the resemblance to Anna Nicole drew heartfelt comments from fans, highlighting how the young woman has blossomed into a beautiful young girl, echoing her mother’s signature glam.
Larry described the experience as deeply emotional, recalling the significance of the dress. He noted that he had kept it for years, reminiscing about the last time he saw it on Anna. The realization that his daughter could now wear it felt surreal for him. “It was a special moment,” he emphasized, reflecting on how this connection helps Dannielynn understand her mother’s legacy.
As part of their annual tradition, the father-daughter duo has attended the Derby together every year since Dannielynn was three. This tradition blossomed from a last-minute babysitter cancellation, ultimately evolving into a cherished yearly outing. Larry mentioned that attendees look forward to seeing them at the event, often admiring their outfits, which have become increasingly elaborate over the years.
Larry has meticulously preserved all of Anna Nicole’s belongings, spending substantial sums on storage to ensure that all of her clothes are available for Dannielynn. “It’s really meaningful for her to wear,” he stated, showcasing his hopes that she appreciates her mother’s fashion choices. As Dannielynn begins to explore the world of fashion, Larry is delighted that she is curious about her mother’s iconic looks.
The emotional significance of wearing her mother’s dress resonates deeply with Dannielynn. In an interview, she expressed that the dress provided a sense of closeness to Anna Nicole, describing it as “the closest to a hug I can get from her.” This sentiment illustrates the powerful impact of memory and legacy in their lives.
Louisville’s Derby weekend not only celebrates horse racing but also serves as a reminder of family bonds. Years after Anna Nicole’s untimely passing, her influence lives on through Dannielynn, who is beginning to define her own identity while honoring her mother’s legacy. Despite the challenges and losses, this weekend’s festivities showcased the enduring connection of a family that continues to celebrate love, memory, and tradition.