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

Prepare yourself, since every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a signature color. This selection aims to capture the spirit of the times—informing everything from our collective sentiment and what we wear to home decor. Last year's hue was the rich tan "a creamy brown," which came after the gentle and peachy "Peach Fuzz."

The latest announcement, in contrast, is particularly baffling. 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 shine."

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a distinct hue?

Can you even describe the color of clouds? Fresh snow? While some consider white as a color, the entire spectrum is fundamentally a perception of light wavelengths. It's present in a set of colored pencils, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is out of touch is harder to determine. According to their release, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, makes a minimalist statement, and radiates refined calm.

Responses from critics, in contrast, has not been as kind. Several voices have declared Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Trend analyst Mandy Lee described it as "a let-down." Some have even compared it with coded promotion of certain ideologies seen in popular culture.

I see, hopefully they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be pointedly celebrating the color white... Anyway, how can a regular person rarely near a catwalk use this information in my world? I just painted my kitchen ceiling white, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. So would your white headphones, tiles, or favorite mug.

It's funny you mention fashion shows, because many recent shows have been exceptionally bright, featuring plant-based fabrics on the runway.

All-white outfits made appearances, as always, in luxury shows—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. High-profile figures have also been photographed in monochromatic white outfits at major events.

The good news is: chances are you already possess pieces in this "discreet" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a eco-friendlier decision for the environmentally aware," which could mean not having to buy new items at all.

SO, a style movement for the inherently lazy. An empty canvas, if you will. A cocoon of serene simplicity amid the chaos. I'm convinced, I get it. Do you intend a all-white theme for your personal style?

Definitely not. Attempting to clean grass stains from a light garment? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do have a pair of now off-white Birkenstocks, and such staples remain perpetually fashionable.