Sonia Winifred’s My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses returns to Brixton Library for Windrush Day – bring your stories and your dresses: Monday 22nd June
Following the success of last year’s debut event during Black History Month, the celebration of Windrush heritage through fabric, fragrance and shared memory is back – and this time, everyone …
Black News 
Following the success of last year’s debut event during Black History Month, the celebration of Windrush heritage through fabric, fragrance and shared memory is back – and this time, everyone is invited to bring something of their own.
My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses is dedicated to the memory of Girleyvine – a Windrush pioneer who arrived from Jamaica to West Norwood in 1958. Looked after by Sonia’s husband Charlie through years of Alzheimer’s until her passing in 2022, her dresses were later discovered in her grip – the suitcase she carried from Jamaica – beautifully wrapped in tissue on top of her wardrobe.
“She obviously wanted to preserve them, so how could I throw them away?” Sonia told Brixton Buzz.
“Girley died of Alzheimer’s, which takes away your memory, your family, let alone your dresses.
It seemed a shame she died having forgotten her dresses, and I thought, why not exhibit her clothes and bring her memory back to life.”
– Sonia Winifred, Girley’s Daughter-in-Law
The first event drew a warm and emotional response, and this time Sonia is inviting the whole community back. The afternoon will also be filmed for inclusion in a memorial documentary celebrating Girleyvine’s life and the stories of the Windrush generation.
Come along and share your own story. Bring that special dress. Let’s share our memories on Windrush Day.
More Info
- My Mother-in-Law’s Dresses, Windrush Day, Monday 22 June 2026, 2–5pm
- Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, London SW2 1JQ
- Book on Eventbrite – Free entry. All welcome.
A few pics from the first event
