| Defchamp: |  Pam Shriver |
| Champ: | Pam Shriver |
| Runner: | Manuela Maleeva |
| Score: | 6–2, 7–6 |
| Draw: | 56 |
| Seeds: | 14 |
| Type: | singles doubles |
| After Name: | Dow Chemical Classic |
| Main Name: | Birmingham Classic (tennis) Birmingham Classic |
See main article: 1986 Edgbaston Cup. Pam Shriver was the two-time defending champion and won in the final against Manuela Maleeva, 6–2, 7–6.
The top eight seeds receive a bye into the second round.
Pam Shriver (Champion)
Wendy Turnbull (third round) Kathy Jordan (semifinals)
Jo Durie (second round) Anne White (second round) Robin White (second round) Kate Gompert (second round) Elise Burgin (first round) Alycia Moulton (quarterfinals) Susan Mascarin (first round) Debbie Spence (first round)