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Hello! I'm so eager to learn what color will define 2026. Tell me everything!

Get ready, since every year since 1999, Pantone selects a Color of the Year. This choice is a reflection of the spirit of the times—influencing everything from our emotions and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. The previous year's color was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," which came after the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

The new choice, though, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a real color?

How does one define the color of clouds? Milk? Although some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is at its core a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a box of crayons, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

If Pantone is being provocative is more difficult to ascertain. According to their release, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has proven more critical. Several voices have accused Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee described it as "underwhelming." Some have even drawn parallels to coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in other media.

I see, it's to be hoped they're blissfully unaware that now is a sensitive time to be explicitly championing pure white... Anyway, how might someone not exactly adjacent to a fashion show apply this information in everyday routine? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, is that enough?

That definitely qualifies. So would your white headphones, bathtub, or linen sheets.

It's funny you mention fashion shows, as many recent shows have been bold and fuzzy, featuring eco-friendly feathers on the stage.

White ensembles were present, like always, in designer collections—from simple silk T-shirts to tailored gowns. High-profile figures have also been photographed in pristine white ensembles at public appearances.

The good news is: you likely already own something in this "subtle" designated shade. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a eco-friendlier decision for the sustainability-minded," which essentially suggests skipping the requirement for new items at all.

FINALLY, a design directive for the inherently lazy. An empty canvas, if you will. A sanctuary of serene simplicity amid the noise. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Will you be creating a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

Definitely not. Attempting to remove red wine stains from a light garment? I could do without more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do have a pair of formerly pristine comfort shoes, and those are always in vogue.