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

Brace yourself, as every year for over two decades, Pantone selects a signature color. This selection aims to capture the spirit of the times—informing everything from our emotions and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. 2025's selection was the darker neutral "a coffee-inspired shade," preceded by the soft and warm "a fuzzy pastel."

The latest selection, however, is even more puzzling. It is "Cloud Dancer," labeled as a "billowy, balanced white."

Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute, stated that it is "a pivotal neutral tone … enabling all colors to stand out."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a proper color?

How does one define the color of clouds? Milk? Although many view white as a color, every hue is at its core a perception of light wavelengths. It's present in a box of crayons, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. They claim, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, provides a calm backdrop, makes a minimalist statement, and projects subtle elegance.

The public reaction, however, has proven more critical. A number of observers have declared Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Style expert Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Others have compared it with implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in other media.

I see, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing whiteness... Anyway, how should I who doesn't follow a catwalk incorporate this information in daily life? I just painted my ceiling with white, does that qualify?

That definitely qualifies. This applies equally to your earbuds, bathtub, or favorite mug.

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

White ensembles featured prominently, as always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to sleek suits. Celebrities and public figures have also been seen in monochromatic white ensembles at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: you probably already own items in this "subtle" color of the year. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a more sustainable choice for the eco-conscious," which might translate to skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a design directive for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A haven of calming neutrality amid the chaos. I'm convinced, I get it. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to remove tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I'm not seeking additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

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