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Hello! I'm incredibly excited to find out what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, because every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a signature color. This selection is a reflection of the spirit of the times—influencing everything from how we feel and what we wear to home decor. 2025's hue was the darker neutral "Mocha Mousse," which came after the gentle and peachy "Peach Fuzz."

The latest announcement, though, is particularly baffling. It is "Cloud Dancer," described by a "billowy, balanced white."

Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute, stated that it is "a key structural color … enabling all colors to shine."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a proper color?

Can you even describe the color of clouds? A blank page? While some consider white as a color, all color is at its core a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a child's crayon box, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is out of touch is harder to determine. The company states, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes refined calm.

Responses from critics, in contrast, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have accused Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee labeled it "a let-down." Others have drawn parallels to implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in other media.

I see, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that now is a sensitive time to be overly emphasizing the color white... Anyway, how might someone who doesn't follow a runway incorporate this trend in daily life? My kitchen ceiling is my ceiling in white paint, does that qualify?

Yes, that certainly counts. So would your wireless speakers, tiles, or linen sheets.

It's interesting you mention runways, because many recent shows have been bold and fuzzy, featuring eco-friendly fabrics on the catwalk.

The color white were present, as always, in high-fashion looks—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. Celebrities and public figures have also been spotted in monochromatic white ensembles at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: you probably already own items in this "subtle" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a eco-friendlier decision for the environmentally aware," which essentially suggests skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a design directive for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of monochromatic zen against the chaos. Okay, I'm on board. Will you be creating a all-white theme for your personal style?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to clean red wine stains from a white fabric? I'm not seeking extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do own a pair of once-white Birkenstocks, and this classic footwear never go out of style.