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Greetings! I'm incredibly excited to find out what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, since every year since 1999, Pantone selects a signature color. This choice aims to capture the spirit of the times—influencing everything from our collective sentiment and what we wear to interior styling. The previous year's selection was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," following the subtly inviting "Peach Fuzz."

The new selection, in contrast, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," described by a "ethereal and neutral white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "an essential foundational hue … allowing all colors to stand out."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Could they be trolling us? Does white qualify as a proper color?

How does one define the hue of a cloud? Milk? Even though people often think of 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.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. They claim, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, makes a minimalist statement, and projects refined calm.

The public reaction, on the other hand, has been less complimentary. Several voices have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee described it as "a let-down." Some have even likened it to 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 pointedly celebrating pure white... So, how might someone not exactly adjacent to a fashion show apply this news in my world? I recently coated my kitchen ceiling white, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. The same goes for your earbuds, bathtub, or linen sheets.

The timing is curious you mention catwalks, because many collections this year have been bold and fuzzy, featuring plant-based feathers on the runway.

The color white featured prominently, like always, in high-fashion looks—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. Well-known individuals have also been photographed in crisp all-white ensembles at prestigious shows.

The good news is: chances are you already have items in this "discreet" color of the year. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a eco-friendlier decision for the eco-conscious," which could mean avoiding the need to purchase fresh products at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the inherently lazy. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A haven of serene simplicity within the noise. Alright, I'm on board. Will you be creating a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to clean tomato sauce stains from a light garment? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

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