🔗 Share this article

Hello! I can't wait to discover what color is set to be 2026. Tell me everything!

Prepare yourself, because every year for over two decades, Pantone selects a signature color. This choice aims to capture the spirit of the times—influencing everything from our collective sentiment and our wardrobe selections to interior styling. The previous year's hue was the deep beige "a creamy brown," which came after the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

This year's selection, however, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," labeled as a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… hold on, just white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a proper color?

Can you even define the shade of milk? Fresh snow? Even though many view white as a color, all color is essentially a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a set of colored pencils, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is being provocative is more difficult to ascertain. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, provides a calm backdrop, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has been less complimentary. Several voices have declared Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Critics have compared it with implied endorsement of controversial ideas seen in other media.

I see, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that now is a sensitive time to be overly emphasizing pure white... So, how might someone rarely near a fashion show incorporate this news in my world? My kitchen ceiling is my ceiling in white paint, does that count?

That definitely qualifies. So would your white headphones, sink, or favorite mug.

It's interesting you mention catwalks, as many collections this year have been vibrantly colorful, featuring naturally dyed materials on the runway.

White ensembles were present, as always, in luxury shows—from simple silk T-shirts to collared dresses. Celebrities and public figures have also been spotted in crisp all-white ensembles at major events.

The good news is: chances are you already own items in this "subtle" color of the year. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a greener option for the environmentally aware," which could mean not having to buy fresh products at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the truly minimalist. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A haven of serene simplicity within the clutter. I'm convinced, I get it. Do you intend a all-white theme for your personal style?

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

I do have a pair of now off-white comfort shoes, and such staples remain perpetually fashionable.