🔗 Share this article

Hello! I'm so eager to find out what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, as every year since 1999, Pantone chooses a defining hue. This pick aims to capture the current cultural mood—influencing everything from our collective sentiment and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. The previous year's selection was the darker neutral "a coffee-inspired shade," preceded by the gentle and peachy "a fuzzy pastel."

The latest choice, however, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "billowy, balanced white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, stated that it is "an essential foundational hue … enabling all colors to stand out."

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… wait, white? Is this a prank? Is white even a real color?

Can you even define the hue of a cloud? Milk? Although some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is at its core a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is trickier to figure out. They claim, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, isn't overstimulating, declares simplicity, and radiates refined calm.

Feedback online, in contrast, has been less complimentary. A number of observers have suggested Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Style expert Mandy Lee described it as "underwhelming." Others have likened it to implied endorsement of controversial ideas seen in other media.

Okay, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be overly emphasizing the color white... So, how should I not exactly adjacent to a fashion show apply this information in my world? I recently coated my kitchen ceiling white, does that qualify?

That definitely qualifies. The same goes for your wireless speakers, bathtub, or ceramic plate.

It's funny you mention runways, as many this season's presentations have been bold and fuzzy, featuring plant-based feathers on the catwalk.

All-white outfits featured prominently, as per usual, in luxury shows—from structured tops to collared dresses. High-profile figures have also been photographed in monochromatic white ensembles at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: you likely already have items in this "discreet" chosen hue. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a eco-friendlier decision for the environmentally aware," which essentially suggests not having to buy fresh products at all.

FINALLY, a style movement for the truly minimalist. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of monochromatic zen against the chaos. Okay, I'm on board. Are you planning a whiteout for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to get out tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I don't need extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do have a pair of once-white sandals, and those remain perpetually fashionable.