🔗 Share this article

Hi there! I'm so eager to discover what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, because every year since 1999, Pantone chooses a Color of the Year. This pick is a reflection of the zeitgeist—influencing everything from how we feel and what we wear to home decor. Last year's selection was the deep beige "a coffee-inspired shade," which came after the subtly inviting "a delicate peach tone."

This year's choice, in contrast, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," described by a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, commented that it is "a key structural color … permitting all colors to shine."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… hold on, just white? Is this a prank? Is white even a proper color?

Can you even define the shade of milk? Milk? While some consider white as a color, every hue is fundamentally a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a child's crayon box, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is pulling our leg is trickier to figure out. They claim, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, declares simplicity, and radiates subtle elegance.

The public reaction, in contrast, has not been as kind. Some commentators have declared Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee called it "a let-down." Some have even compared it with coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in other media.

I see, hopefully they're blissfully unaware that this isn't the best moment to be explicitly championing whiteness... So, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a catwalk apply this trend in my world? I just painted my kitchen ceiling white, does that count?

That definitely qualifies. The same goes for your white headphones, bathtub, or linen sheets.

It's funny you mention runways, since many collections this year have been exceptionally bright, featuring eco-friendly feathers on the stage.

All-white outfits were present, as always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to collared dresses. High-profile figures have also been seen in monochromatic white outfits at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: you likely already own items in this "understated" chosen hue. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a more sustainable choice for the sustainability-minded," which essentially suggests not having to buy new items at all.

FINALLY, a design directive for the truly minimalist. A fresh start, if you will. A haven of serene simplicity amid the chaos. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

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

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