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Hi there! I'm incredibly excited to learn what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, since every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a signature color. This selection is a reflection of the zeitgeist—influencing everything from how we feel and what we wear to interior styling. 2025's selection was the deep beige "a coffee-inspired shade," which came after the subtly inviting "a delicate peach tone."

The new announcement, in contrast, is even more puzzling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Are they joking? Does white qualify as a distinct hue?

How does one characterize the hue of a cloud? A blank page? Even though people often think of white as a color, the entire spectrum is at its core a range of visible light. It appears 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 mixes well with other colors, provides a calm backdrop, embodies understated style, and radiates refined calm.

The public reaction, on the other hand, has proven more critical. Some commentators have accused Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Style expert Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Others have drawn parallels to implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in popular culture.

I see, it's to be hoped they're blissfully unaware that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing whiteness... Anyway, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a catwalk apply this information in my world? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, is that enough?

Yes, that certainly counts. So would your white headphones, sink, or linen sheets.

It's interesting you mention fashion shows, because many this season's presentations have been exceptionally bright, featuring eco-friendly materials on the catwalk.

White ensembles featured prominently, as always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to collared dresses. High-profile figures have also been seen in pristine white ensembles at major events.

On the bright side is: you likely already possess something in this "subtle" designated shade. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a eco-friendlier decision for the eco-conscious," which might translate to skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a style movement for the truly minimalist. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of monochromatic zen amid the noise. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to get out tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I don't need extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do have a pair of formerly pristine sandals, and such staples remain perpetually fashionable.