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

Get ready, because every year for over two decades, Pantone selects a Color of the Year. This choice is a reflection of the zeitgeist—influencing everything from our collective sentiment and our wardrobe selections to interior styling. 2025's hue was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," which came after the subtly inviting "a fuzzy pastel."

This year's selection, however, is particularly baffling. It is "Cloud Dancer," described by a "billowy, balanced white."

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

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Are they joking? Can white truly be considered a real color?

What is the best way to define the shade of milk? Milk? Even though many view white as a color, every hue is essentially a perception of light wavelengths. You can find it in a box of crayons, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is pulling our leg is more difficult to ascertain. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, declares simplicity, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Responses from critics, on the other hand, has not been as kind. Several voices have declared Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee called it "disappointing." Others have compared it with coded promotion of certain ideologies seen in popular culture.

Right, it's to be hoped they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be overly emphasizing whiteness... So, how can a regular person rarely near a catwalk apply this trend in daily life? I recently coated my kitchen ceiling white, is that enough?

It absolutely counts. The same goes for your earbuds, tiles, or favorite mug.

It's interesting you mention fashion shows, because many collections this year have been bold and fuzzy, featuring plant-based fabrics on the catwalk.

The color white featured prominently, as per usual, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to collared dresses. Celebrities and public figures have also been photographed in crisp all-white attire at prestigious shows.

The good news is: chances are you already possess items in this "subtle" color of the year. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a more sustainable choice for the eco-conscious," which could mean not having to buy anything new at all.

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of serene simplicity against the noise. Alright, I'm on board. Do you intend a whiteout for your closet?

Absolutely not. Have you ever tried to clean grass stains from a white fabric? I could do without additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

I do have a pair of formerly pristine comfort shoes, and this classic footwear never go out of style.