At this year's Kentucky Derby, 16-year-old Dannielynn Birkhead honored her late mother, Anna Nicole Smith, by donning the iconic black gown from the 2004 Barnstable Brown Gala, evoking heartfelt memories.

The poignant tribute at the Derby not only commemorates Anna Nicole Smith, who died in 2007, but also highlights the enduring bond between Dannielynn and her father, Larry Birkhead. By choosing to wear her mother's treasured gown, Dannielynn connects with her heritage and reflects the family's ongoing tradition at the Derby, a sentimental event they have attended together yearly since she was three. Larry expressed that the gesture creates a profound sense of closeness to his late ex-partner, emphasizing the emotional significance of the occasion.

Dannielynn's dress, a floor-length black gown featuring crystal-adorned straps, was a standout at the event as it was originally worn by Smith at the very same Barnstable Brown Gala in 2004. The gown not only showcases an element of glamour but serves as a tangible piece of the mother-daughter connection, reinforced by Dannielynn's choice to wear it.

Larry Birkhead, who has made saving Anna Nicole's belongings a financial priority, revealed that he has spent over $200,000 in storage fees to preserve his late partner’s possessions, including her iconic fashion items. This financial commitment underscores the emotional weight these items hold for him and their daughter.

Speaking about the experience, Larry stated, "Wearing the dress is the closest to a hug I can get from her," reflecting on the bittersweet feelings that accompany their family traditions. He noted that seeing Dannielynn in the gown after years of storage was a surreal experience, filled with nostalgia and a deep sense of loss.

Adds Dannielynn, who described the dress as 'super cool', emphasizing its significance. Her hairstyle at the event, reminiscent of Anna Nicole's early 2000s style, further illustrated her intention to honor her mother's legacy. This detail showcases not only an appreciation of her mother’s fashion sense but also a celebration of her identity.

The Barnstable Brown Gala, a key part of the Kentucky Derby festivities, has raised over $21 million for diabetes research since its inception in 1989. This charitable aspect of the event adds layers to the occasion, linking the festivities with significant philanthropic efforts.

The tradition of attending the Kentucky Derby began for the Birkhead family after a babysitter canceled, resulting in a spontaneous trip to the renowned horse race. This event has since transformed into a cherished annual ritual, combining celebration with remembrance as it brings the father and daughter closer together.

Larry Birkhead's memories of Anna Nicole Smith are often intertwined with pivotal moments like the Kentucky Derby. The day serves as a backdrop for both celebrating her legacy and navigating the complexities of grief, as the family continues to create new memories while honoring past ones.

Anna Nicole Smith's life was marked by both media scrutiny and personal struggle. She died in 2007 from an accidental drug overdose, leaving behind a complicated legacy and a daughter who continues to navigate through both her memory and her own emerging identity.

The Birkhead family's ongoing devotion to honoring Anna Nicole through their shared experiences illustrates the enduring impact of her life on her daughter's upbringing and the way in which they commemorate her influence during significant family events like the Kentucky Derby.