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Hi there! I'm so eager to find out what color has been chosen for 2026. What's the scoop?

Get ready, because every year since 1999, Pantone chooses a Color of the Year. This selection is a reflection of the spirit of the times—influencing everything from how we feel and our wardrobe selections to home decor. The previous year's selection was the deep beige "a coffee-inspired shade," preceded by the gentle and peachy "a fuzzy pastel."

The new choice, however, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "billowy, balanced white."

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

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… hold on, just white? Could they be trolling us? Does white qualify as a distinct hue?

What is the best way to characterize the shade of milk? A blank page? Even though some consider white as a color, all color is at its core a perception of light wavelengths. It's present in a child's crayon box, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is trickier to figure out. According to their release, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, provides a calm backdrop, declares simplicity, and exudes subtle elegance.

Responses from critics, in contrast, has proven more critical. A number of observers have accused Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee described it as "a let-down." Some have even likened it to subtle advocacy of certain ideologies seen in popular culture.

Right, one would hope they're blissfully unaware that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing pure white... Therefore, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a catwalk incorporate this trend in my world? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, does that count?

That definitely qualifies. So would your white headphones, sink, or ceramic plate.

It's funny you mention catwalks, because many collections this year have been bold and fuzzy, featuring naturally dyed fabrics on the stage.

All-white outfits featured prominently, as per usual, in high-fashion looks—from structured tops to tailored gowns. High-profile figures have also been photographed in pristine white outfits at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: chances are you already possess something in this "discreet" color of the year. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a greener option for the sustainability-minded," which could mean skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of calming neutrality amid the noise. I'm convinced, I'm sold. Are you planning a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Absolutely not. Attempting to get out red wine stains from a white fabric? I don't need additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

I do own a pair of once-white comfort shoes, and such staples are always in vogue.