🔗 Share this article

Greetings! I'm so eager to find out what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Get ready, because every year since 1999, Pantone announces a Color of the Year. This pick seeks to represent the spirit of the times—shaping everything from how we feel and fashion choices to interior styling. The previous year's color was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," following the subtly inviting "Peach Fuzz."

The latest announcement, however, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," labeled as a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, the vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "a pivotal neutral tone … allowing all colors to shine."

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… hold on, just white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a proper color?

Can you even characterize the color of clouds? Fresh snow? While some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is essentially a perception of light wavelengths. It appears in a box of crayons, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is being provocative is trickier to figure out. The company states, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and projects refined calm.

Responses from critics, however, has proven more critical. A number of observers have accused Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee labeled it "a let-down." Critics have drawn parallels to implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in recent advertising.

I see, hopefully they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be pointedly celebrating pure white... So, how can a regular person rarely near a catwalk incorporate this trend in everyday routine? I just painted my ceiling with white, does that count?

That definitely qualifies. The same goes for your earbuds, tiles, or favorite mug.

The timing is curious you mention runways, as many collections this year have been exceptionally bright, featuring plant-based fabrics on the runway.

White ensembles were present, as per usual, in luxury shows—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. High-profile figures have also been spotted in monochromatic white ensembles at prestigious shows.

The positive takeaway is: you probably already possess something in this "understated" color of the year. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a greener option for the environmentally aware," which essentially suggests not having to buy fresh products at all.

SO, a design directive for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, if you will. A sanctuary of monochromatic zen against the noise. I'm convinced, I'm sold. Do you intend a monochrome palette for your closet?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to remove red wine stains from a light garment? I could do without more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of once-white sandals, and such staples are always in vogue.