Ashley Williams Fall 2026 Collection: A Whimsical Ode to Retro Domesticity

Last season, Ashley Williams took provinciality and transformed it into something extraordinary. However, for fall 2026, she delved even deeper into the realm of domesticity, quite literally immersing her cast of characters in the everyday scenes they once inhabited. Headboards transformed into plasticky skirts, toilet paper bangles adorned wrists, and bedspreads inspired silky and scalloped designs on cardigans and dresses. Williams drew inspiration from the character Carol Anne in the 1982 horror film Poltergeist, connecting with spirits through household items.

The London designer also found influence in ’80s bedrooms and whimsical children’s furniture, creating a collection that was both covetable and fantastical. She explored the concept of make-believe that follows us into adulthood, manifesting in our work, social interactions, and personal spaces. Williams explained, “I am always interested in a person’s different ‘versions’ and how that shows up in physical spaces.”

This eclectic mix of ideas, showcased in a vibrant color palette reminiscent of a smeared VHS tape from decades past, unfolded through a series of character studies. From a nurturing grandparent in a faux-fur lined jacket to a girl dressed for a ballet recital in skull and crossbones mittens and vibrant tulle skirts, each look told a unique story. Playful prints, including Williams’s iconic “I <3 ME” motif, adorned hospital gowns, tracksuits, dresses, and coats. Floral patterns, sleeping cats, centaurs in a woodland setting, and pill motifs added to the whimsical charm. Signature pieces like the “bedtime trousers” were reimagined in lace-lined satin and mint-colored fabric sourced from prestigious mills.

In addition to luxurious textures and heavy wool, Williams embraced synthetic fibers like shiny polyester reminiscent of ’80s lingerie, fleece, and reflective strips. Stylist Danny Reed maintained the collection’s whimsical aesthetic, pairing velcro cut-out boots with thick socks and blue-rinse shag wigs. Toy-like jewelry and hair accessories from the collaboration with YVMIN added a playful touch, clipped to bangs and draped over shoulders. Following a successful partnership with Starface pimple patches, Williams and her characters embarked on a journey from London to Paris and Shanghai for fashion week.