Dannielynn used her 2026 gala appearance to lean further into a look that reflected her personal taste rather than her mother’s legacy. Larry said the moment was about his daughter showing off her own sense of style. | Source: Getty Images
She continued, « Because it’s always like, ‘Anna Nicole Smith’s daughter,’ and never just Dannielynn. So I’m hoping my look right now will kind of help with that in a way. » Larry’s response was just as supportive: « I’m excited that she’s just being her own individual self. »
Dannielynn has said she feels more confident and more like herself than ever before. She has also made it clear that she does not want other people dictating how she should look or who she should become. | Source: Getty Images
A Bolder Look and a Newfound Confidence
That desire for individuality was particularly apparent when Dannielynn debuted a bold style change at the May 1 gala in Louisville, Kentucky.
As Hello! reported, she opted for an edgy platinum wolf cut with black tips and a floor-length black dress, embracing a noticeably different aesthetic from some of her previous Derby appearances. Dannielynn told Access Hollywood that college had helped her learn more about herself and her style.
Her evolving style has become part of a bigger effort to be recognized as Dannielynn, not only as Anna Nicole Smith’s daughter. She has said comparisons to her mom can feel flattering while still wanting space to establish her own name. | Source: Getty Images
« I learned to just be myself and not let anything stop me, » she said. She also had a clear response for anyone who thought they should have a say in her appearance.
« Someone’s like, ‘Hey, you actually can’t do your hair like that.’ Who cares! I’m doing it. I’m not gonna let someone dictate what I wanna do or who I wanna be, because life is short, and I think you should be who you wanna be, no matter what, » she said.
Larry has supported Dannielynn’s individuality while acknowledging that many people still expect her to follow Anna Nicole’s path. For now, he has said he is happy to let her explore whatever future feels right to her. | Source: Getty Images
Dannielynn added, « I probably feel the most confident and happy and like myself I’ve ever felt right now. » Larry similarly explained that the look represented something new for his daughter.
