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Hello! I'm incredibly excited to learn what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Get ready, since every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a Color of the Year. This choice is a reflection of the current cultural mood—shaping everything from our emotions and fashion choices to home decor. Last year's color was the deep beige "Mocha Mousse," following the soft and warm "a delicate peach tone."

The new selection, in contrast, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Are they joking? Is white even a proper color?

What is the best way to describe the hue of a cloud? Milk? Even though many view white as a color, all color is at its core a range of visible light. You can find it in a child's crayon box, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is pulling our leg is trickier to figure out. The company states, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, isn't overstimulating, embodies understated style, and exudes subtle elegance.

The public reaction, on the other hand, has proven more critical. Several voices have suggested Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee described it as "disappointing." Others have likened it to subtle advocacy of problematic concepts seen in popular culture.

Okay, one would hope they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be explicitly championing whiteness... Therefore, how can a regular person rarely near a fashion show incorporate this trend in my world? I recently coated my ceiling with white, is that enough?

Yes, that certainly counts. So would your wireless speakers, tiles, or ceramic plate.

It's funny you mention fashion shows, since many recent shows have been vibrantly colorful, featuring eco-friendly feathers on the catwalk.

All-white outfits were present, as always, in luxury shows—from simple silk T-shirts to sleek suits. Well-known individuals have also been spotted in monochromatic white ensembles at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: chances are you already have items in this "subtle" color of the year. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a greener option for the eco-conscious," which could mean not having to buy anything new at all.

SO, a design directive for the truly minimalist. A fresh start, if you will. A haven of monochromatic zen amid the noise. Okay, I get it. Do you intend a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

Absolutely not. Do you know how hard it is to clean red wine stains from a light garment? I'm not seeking additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

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