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Hi there! I can't wait to find out what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, since every year beginning in 1999, Pantone announces a Color of the Year. This choice seeks to represent the spirit of the times—shaping everything from how we feel and what we wear to interior styling. The previous year's color was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," preceded by the subtly inviting "a delicate peach tone."

The latest choice, in contrast, is particularly baffling. It is "Cloud Dancer," labeled as a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Are they joking? Can white truly be considered a distinct hue?

What is the best way to characterize the hue of a cloud? A blank page? Although some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is essentially a spectrum of light waves. It appears in a child's crayon box, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is pulling our leg is harder to determine. They claim, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and radiates subtle elegance.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has not been as kind. Several voices have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Style expert Mandy Lee described it as "underwhelming." Some have even drawn parallels to coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in popular culture.

I see, hopefully they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing the color white... So, how should I rarely near a fashion show use this trend in daily life? I recently coated my ceiling with white, does that qualify?

Yes, that certainly counts. The same goes for your white headphones, tiles, or favorite mug.

The timing is curious you mention runways, because many recent shows have been bold and fuzzy, featuring plant-based feathers on the runway.

All-white outfits were present, as always, in high-fashion looks—from structured tops to collared dresses. Well-known individuals have also been seen in monochromatic white outfits at major events.

On the bright side is: chances are you already own pieces in this "understated" chosen hue. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a greener option for the environmentally aware," which could mean avoiding the need to purchase anything new at all.

AT LAST, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of calming neutrality against the noise. I'm convinced, I get it. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your closet?

Not a chance. Attempting to get out red wine stains from a white fabric? I could do without more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do own a pair of once-white Birkenstocks, and this classic footwear are always in vogue.