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Greetings! I can't wait to learn what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, because every year for over two decades, Pantone announces a defining hue. This choice seeks to represent the spirit of the times—informing everything from our collective sentiment and fashion choices to how we design our living spaces. The previous year's hue was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," which came after the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

This year's choice, however, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," labeled as a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Is this a prank? Can white truly be considered a proper color?

How does one characterize the shade of milk? Fresh snow? While many view white as a color, all color is essentially a range of visible light. It appears in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is being provocative is trickier to figure out. The company states, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes subtle elegance.

Responses from critics, however, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Others have drawn parallels to coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in recent advertising.

Right, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that the timing is awkward to be explicitly championing whiteness... So, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a runway incorporate this trend in everyday routine? My kitchen ceiling is my ceiling in white paint, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. This applies equally to your wireless speakers, sink, or ceramic plate.

The timing is curious you mention catwalks, since many collections this year have been vibrantly colorful, featuring plant-based feathers on the stage.

The color white were present, as per usual, in luxury shows—from structured tops to sleek suits. High-profile figures have also been spotted in crisp all-white attire at prestigious shows.

The good news is: you likely already have pieces in this "discreet" designated shade. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a greener option for the eco-conscious," which could mean not having to buy anything new at all.

SO, a fashion trend for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, if you will. A haven of calming neutrality within the chaos. I'm convinced, I get it. Do you intend a monochrome palette for your closet?

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

I do possess a pair of now off-white Birkenstocks, and such staples are always in vogue.