🔗 Share this article

Hi there! I'm incredibly excited to learn what color is set to be 2026. Tell me everything!

Prepare yourself, as every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a defining hue. This selection is a reflection of the zeitgeist—informing everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to home decor. 2025's color was the deep beige "Mocha Mousse," which came after the gentle and peachy "a fuzzy pastel."

This year's choice, however, is somewhat unexpected. It is "Cloud Dancer," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute, stated that it is "a pivotal neutral tone … enabling all colors to stand out."

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Does white qualify as a real color?

How does one characterize the color of clouds? Fresh snow? While some consider white as a color, every hue is fundamentally a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. The company states, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, isn't overstimulating, declares simplicity, and radiates refined calm.

The public reaction, however, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "disappointing." Others have compared it with implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in recent advertising.

I see, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be pointedly celebrating the color white... Anyway, how might someone who doesn't follow a fashion show apply this news in daily life? I just painted my ceiling with white, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. This applies equally to your white headphones, sink, or ceramic plate.

It's interesting you mention runways, as many this season's presentations have been exceptionally bright, featuring plant-based materials on the catwalk.

The color white featured prominently, as per usual, in luxury shows—from structured tops to tailored gowns. Well-known individuals have also been seen in crisp all-white outfits at major events.

On the bright side is: chances are you already possess something in this "discreet" designated shade. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a more sustainable choice for the sustainability-minded," which could mean skipping the requirement for fresh products at all.

SO, a fashion trend for the truly minimalist. A blank page, if you will. A sanctuary of monochromatic zen within the noise. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Do you intend a monochrome palette for your closet?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to clean red wine stains from a white shirt? I could do without extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do possess a pair of once-white comfort shoes, and those never go out of style.