🔗 Share this article

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

Get ready, because every year since 1999, Pantone announces a Color of the Year. This choice seeks to represent the spirit of the times—informing everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to interior styling. 2025's hue was the rich tan "a coffee-inspired shade," which came after the soft and warm "a delicate peach tone."

This year's selection, in contrast, is particularly baffling. It is "an airy shade," described by a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, commented that it is "an essential foundational hue … allowing all colors to be highlighted."

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

Can you even characterize the color of clouds? Milk? Even though 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 for practical purposes the answer is yes.

If Pantone is out of touch is harder to determine. The company states, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, isn't overstimulating, declares simplicity, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Responses from critics, on the other hand, has been less complimentary. Several voices have declared Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Others have drawn parallels to coded promotion of controversial ideas seen in recent advertising.

Okay, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be overly emphasizing whiteness... Anyway, how can a regular person not exactly adjacent to a fashion show use this news in my world? I recently coated my ceiling with white, does that count?

It absolutely counts. The same goes for your wireless speakers, bathtub, or favorite mug.

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

All-white outfits featured prominently, as per usual, in high-fashion looks—from structured tops to sleek suits. Celebrities and public figures have also been photographed in monochromatic white ensembles at major events.

The good news is: you probably already own something in this "discreet" color of the year. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a greener option for the eco-conscious," which could mean avoiding the need to purchase fresh products at all.

SO, a design directive for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of monochromatic zen within the chaos. I'm convinced, I'm sold. Will you be creating a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Absolutely not. Have you ever tried to get out grass stains from a white shirt? I'm not seeking extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

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