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

Brace yourself, because every year for over two decades, Pantone selects a signature color. This selection is a reflection of the zeitgeist—informing everything from how we feel and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. Last year's selection was the darker neutral "a coffee-inspired shade," which came after the gentle and peachy "a fuzzy pastel."

This year's choice, though, is even more puzzling. It is "Cloud Dancer," which Pantone calls a "billowy, balanced white."

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

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

How does one define the shade of milk? Fresh snow? While many view white as a color, every hue is essentially a spectrum of light waves. It appears in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

If Pantone is being provocative is harder to determine. According to their release, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, embodies understated style, and radiates quiet sophistication.

Feedback online, however, has not been as kind. A number of observers have accused Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Some have even drawn parallels to coded promotion of controversial ideas seen in recent advertising.

I see, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be overly emphasizing the color white... Therefore, how should I not exactly adjacent to a runway use this trend in everyday routine? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, does that qualify?

It absolutely counts. The same goes for your earbuds, sink, or ceramic plate.

The timing is curious you mention runways, since many collections this year have been vibrantly colorful, featuring eco-friendly feathers on the runway.

All-white outfits were present, like always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to sleek suits. Well-known individuals have also been seen in crisp all-white ensembles at public appearances.

The good news is: you probably already possess something in this "subtle" chosen hue. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a eco-friendlier decision for the sustainability-minded," which essentially suggests not having to buy anything new at all.

AT LAST, a fashion trend for the deeply unmotivated. A blank page, so to speak. A sanctuary of calming neutrality within the clutter. Okay, I'm on board. Do you intend a all-white theme for your personal style?

Definitely not. Attempting to get out tomato sauce stains from a white fabric? I could do without more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of once-white Birkenstocks, and those remain perpetually fashionable.