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Hello! I'm incredibly excited to discover what color is set to be 2026. Tell me everything!

Brace yourself, since every year since 1999, Pantone chooses a Color of the Year. This choice is a reflection of the spirit of the times—influencing everything from how we feel and our wardrobe selections to how we design our living spaces. Last year's color was the deep beige "a coffee-inspired shade," following the soft and warm "Peach Fuzz."

This year's choice, though, is particularly baffling. It is "an airy shade," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, the vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, stated that it is "an essential foundational hue … allowing all colors to shine."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… hold on, just white? Is this a prank? Can white truly be considered a real color?

Can you even characterize the color of clouds? A blank page? While many view white as a color, the entire spectrum is at its core a spectrum of light waves. You can find it in a box of crayons, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. The company states, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, embodies understated style, and exudes subtle elegance.

Feedback online, however, has proven more critical. Some commentators have declared Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "a let-down." Some have even compared it with coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in popular culture.

I see, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing the color white... So, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a catwalk apply this trend in everyday routine? I recently coated my kitchen ceiling white, does that qualify?

Yes, that certainly counts. The same goes for your earbuds, sink, or favorite mug.

It's interesting you mention fashion shows, because many recent shows have been exceptionally bright, featuring plant-based feathers on the catwalk.

The color white were present, like always, in luxury shows—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. Celebrities and public figures have also been seen in crisp all-white attire at public appearances.

The good news is: you likely already own something in this "discreet" chosen hue. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a greener option for the environmentally aware," which could mean skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a design directive for the truly minimalist. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of calming neutrality against the noise. Alright, I get it. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your personal style?

Not a chance. Have you ever tried to clean grass stains from a light garment? I don't need extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do own a pair of formerly pristine sandals, and this classic footwear never go out of style.