My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses – a celebration of memory, fabric and fragrance – returns to Brixton Library on Windrush Day 2026
This Mother’s Day, a reminder of a Brixton project celebrating the dresses, memories and stories of the Windrush generation, with its second outing confirmed at Brixton Library on Monday 22nd …
Black News 
This Mother’s Day, a reminder of a Brixton project celebrating the dresses, memories and stories of the Windrush generation, with its second outing confirmed at Brixton Library on Monday 22nd June for National Windrush Day.
My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses is curated by former Lambeth Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture Sonia Winifred, and centres on the life and memory of Girleyvine, known as ‘Girly’, who arrived from Jamaica to West Norwood in 1958.
Girly’s collection of dresses from the 1950s to 1970s, along with her perfumes, combs, photographs and personal belongings, form the heart of the afternoon, exploring how scent, touch and shared storytelling can help reconnect families and revive fading memories.
The project was inspired by the care Girly received from her son Charlie, who looked after her through five years of Alzheimer’s until her death in 2022.
Sonia Winifred told Brixton Buzz: “We have already lost too much. I want people to bring your own photographs, bring the family and that favourite dress, come along and share your memories, share your stories.”
More Info
- My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses, Windrush Day, Monday 22 June 2026, 2pm–5pm
- Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, London SW2 1J
- Free entry. All welcome.
