Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper

Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper

As a lifestyle expert with a keen eye for fashion and empathy for personal struggles, I admire Kate Garraway’s resilience and grace in the face of adversity. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook while navigating the complexities of life is truly commendable.


Despite it being just October, Kate Garraway is already embracing the holiday cheer for a Christmas-themed photo session.

As I gracefully donned a series of stylish ensembles, I found myself sharing heartfelt thoughts with Woman & Home regarding my mission to ensure our family’s first Christmas without my dear husband, Derek Draper, is filled with joy and merriment for the sake of our cherished children.

Former political lobbyist Derek died in January at the age of 56 from COVID-19 complications, almost four years after he was taken ill with the respiratory virus. 

In the photos chosen for the December edition, Kate dazzled, highlighting her silhouette in a soft cream gown and leaving spectators amazed in a shimmering silver jumpsuit.

She, the beloved figure on TV, was seen sporting lively party gowns while enjoying a cocktail nearby a festive Christmas tree, striking various poses.

Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper

Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper
Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper

Even though everyone was enjoying the celebration, Kate candidly discussed the hardships that the family would encounter during the holiday season following Derek’s passing. However, she remains optimistic about forming fresh memories together with their children, Darcey aged 18, and Billy aged 15.

This year’s Christmas may prove challenging, given that it’s filled with firsts, yet she encouraged her children by saying, “Let’s go with what feels best, let’s try something new and create fresh memories.

‘You’ve got to try and let things evolve into new memories, and I’m going to be led by them.’

The beloved character reminisced about the past Christmases leading up to Derek’s sad demise, a time that proved difficult because of his ongoing health issues.

This year marks our initial Christmas without Derek, yet it’s important to acknowledge that the past few festive seasons have presented difficulties for us. However, amidst those challenges, we were fortunate to celebrate with Derek by our side.

I don’t anticipate spending the entire day crying, but there might be some emotional instances. Yet, I really want the day to be filled with joy and happiness for Darcey and Billy because they’ve had a difficult time lately. Perhaps their thoughts will be, “At least Dad is no longer in pain.

I can’t help but cherish those delightful Christmas moments we spent together as a family, like the thrilling drives to Derek’s parent’s place, where we’d rate each house’s Christmas illuminations as we passed by, transforming our journey into a magical holiday tour.

Previously, Kate had acknowledged Darcey following her success with her A-Level results in August, which occurred seven months after Derek’s passing.

Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper
Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper
Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper
Kate Garraway cuts a glamorous figure as she gets into the festive spirit ahead of her first Christmas without husband Derek Draper

Darcey made sure she had items that reminded her of her father, such as a family picture taken before his illness in March 2020 and one of his beloved Panama hats, to keep him close during her journey.

On Instagram, Kate posted a video showing her teenage friend’s goodbye, casually displaying an uncollaged photograph and a hat that once belonged to Darcey at Wimbledon, which were placed in the backseat of her car parked on the sidewalk outside their residence in north London.

In the caption, she expressed: “Leaving us behind with a swift start, it’s our little, once dependent baby who needed help 18 years ago, now embarks on their university journey!

Over the weekend, just like countless other parents, I was attempting to fit everything into the car, much like a challenging game of Jenga. Fortunately, my trusty Victor’s spacious trunk came in handy!

She added: ‘Such an emotional moment on so many levels & boy is the house quiet. But Darcey we couldn’t be prouder of you starting this new chapter in your life & know your Dad is with you all the way.’ 

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2024-10-19 14:48

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