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Hello! I can't wait to discover what color has been chosen for 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, as every year for over two decades, Pantone announces a defining hue. This selection is a reflection of the spirit of the times—informing everything from our collective sentiment and our wardrobe selections to interior styling. Last year's selection was the rich tan "a coffee-inspired shade," following the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

This year's selection, in contrast, is particularly baffling. It is "Cloud Dancer," described by a "soft and structural white."

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

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a distinct hue?

How does one describe the hue of a cloud? Fresh snow? Although people often think of white as a color, all color is essentially a perception of light wavelengths. You can find it in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is pulling our leg is harder to determine. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, declares simplicity, and radiates refined calm.

The public reaction, on the other hand, has not been as kind. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Some have even drawn parallels to coded promotion of controversial ideas seen in recent advertising.

Okay, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that this isn't the best moment to be overly emphasizing whiteness... So, how can a regular person not exactly adjacent to a fashion show use this information in daily life? I recently coated my ceiling with white, does that count?

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

It's funny you mention fashion shows, because many this season's presentations have been vibrantly colorful, featuring plant-based feathers on the stage.

All-white outfits made appearances, as always, in high-fashion looks—from simple silk T-shirts to tailored gowns. High-profile figures have also been photographed in crisp all-white attire at prestigious shows.

The good news is: you likely already possess pieces in this "subtle" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a more sustainable choice for the sustainability-minded," which might translate to avoiding the need to purchase anything new at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, so to speak. A haven of calming neutrality within the chaos. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Will you be creating a all-white theme for your personal style?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to remove tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of formerly pristine sandals, and this classic footwear remain perpetually fashionable.