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Greetings! I'm so eager to learn what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, as every year beginning in 1999, Pantone chooses a signature color. This pick is a reflection of the zeitgeist—shaping everything from our collective sentiment and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. The previous year's selection was the rich tan "a creamy brown," preceded by the subtly inviting "a delicate peach tone."

The new choice, however, is somewhat unexpected. It is "an airy shade," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, the vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "a pivotal neutral tone … enabling all colors to be highlighted."

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

How does one describe the color of clouds? Milk? While some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is essentially a range of visible light. It's present in a child's crayon box, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is pulling our leg is trickier to figure out. The company states, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, provides a calm backdrop, declares simplicity, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Responses from critics, however, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee described it as "underwhelming." Critics have drawn parallels to subtle advocacy of controversial ideas seen in popular culture.

Right, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that now is a sensitive time to be pointedly celebrating whiteness... Therefore, how might someone who doesn't follow a fashion show apply this news in everyday routine? My kitchen ceiling is my ceiling with white, is that enough?

It absolutely counts. This applies equally to your white headphones, sink, or favorite mug.

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

All-white outfits were present, like always, in high-fashion looks—from structured tops to sleek suits. Celebrities and public figures have also been seen in crisp all-white outfits at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: you likely already have something in this "subtle" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a more sustainable choice for the sustainability-minded," which essentially suggests not having to buy new items at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, so to speak. A cocoon of calming neutrality against the noise. Alright, I'm sold. Do you intend a all-white theme for your closet?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to get out red wine stains from a white fabric? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of now off-white sandals, and such staples never go out of style.