1953
Born in rural Dowlais, South Wales, Laura Ashley experienced firsthand the practicality and necessity of textiles in everyday life. Growing up, she developed a deep appreciation for fabric and design, which later led her to work at the Women’s Institute. Inspired by this experience, she was eager to reinvent the tradition of patchwork quilting.
1954
The Ashley's invested £10 in wood for a screen, fabric and dyes. At her kitchen table, Laura began screen printing tea towels and headscarves by hand - the first step in building their business.
1955
Over the next few years, Laura and Bernard Ashley produced about 300 yards of fabric a day. This neoclassical hand printed table cloth was produced during this period.
1959
In the late 50’s Laura decided to produce a gardening apron and smock. The success of which landed Laura Ashley a mention in The London Sunday Times, opening the brand up to the fashion industry.
1960's
With the success of the apron, Laura Ashley expanded into fashion, blending the popular styles and patterns of the ’60s and ’70s with classic English romance—a reflection of her country upbringing. As their business and family continued to grow, the Ashleys decided to move to Carno, Wales, near Laura’s childhood home.
1971
In 1971 The Ashley's daughter Jane Ashley took over as the in-house photographer for Laura Ashley. She shot some of the brand’s most iconic imagery, some of which are still used in contemporary collections.
1980's
In 1981 the first Home catalogue was published. The mail-order catalogue was multi-lingual, a sign of the brand’s growing international popularity. In 1983 The Laura Ashley Book of Home Furnishings was published and became hugely influential in home interiors globally. Sadly in 1985 Laura Ashley passed away. She is sorely missed by family, friends and all who loved Laura Ashley. Her creative vision is still very much a part of the work today, a testament to our success and longevity.
2000
In 2000 the Laura Ashley website launched and the archive was established. The Laura Ashley archive showcases the brand’s rich heritage and holds hundreds of thousands of Laura Ashley treasures.
2019-Present
In 2019, iconic Laura Ashley fashion from the ’70s and ’80s was revived through a collaboration with Urban Outfitters. The brand's heritage and authenticity were further celebrated in Rag & Bone and Barbour partnerships in 2020. In 2021, Laura Ashley launched an exciting collaboration with New York designer Batsheva, who was inspired to pursue a career in fashion after visiting a dressmaker to recreate her favorite Laura Ashley dress.
2023 Through Present
In 2023, Laura Ashley celebrated 70 years of heritage with a special edition collection inspired by its rich archives. In January 2025, the iconic British brand was acquired by Marquee Brands, joining a prestigious portfolio that includes Martha Stewart, Sur La Table, and more than a dozen other renowned lifestyle brands.