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Greetings! I'm incredibly excited to find out what color is set to be 2026. What's the scoop?

Prepare yourself, as every year beginning in 1999, Pantone chooses a defining hue. This choice aims to capture the spirit of the times—informing everything from our collective sentiment and our wardrobe selections to home decor. Last year's selection was the darker neutral "Mocha Mousse," following the gentle and peachy "a fuzzy pastel."

The new selection, in contrast, is particularly baffling. It is "an airy shade," described by a "ethereal and neutral white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "an essential foundational hue … enabling all colors to be highlighted."

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a proper color?

What is the best way to characterize the shade of milk? A blank page? While some consider white as a color, all color is fundamentally a perception of light wavelengths. It appears in a child's crayon box, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

If Pantone is out of touch is harder to determine. They claim, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, makes a minimalist statement, and projects quiet sophistication.

Responses from critics, in contrast, has not been as kind. A number of observers have declared Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee labeled it "disappointing." Others have likened it to implied endorsement of controversial ideas seen in other media.

Okay, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be pointedly celebrating pure white... So, how can a regular person who doesn't follow a runway use this news in everyday routine? I just painted my ceiling with white, is that enough?

That definitely qualifies. The same goes for your earbuds, bathtub, or ceramic plate.

It's funny you mention fashion shows, as many collections this year have been exceptionally bright, featuring plant-based fabrics on the stage.

The color white featured prominently, as per usual, in high-fashion looks—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. Celebrities and public figures have also been seen in monochromatic white ensembles at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: chances are you already own something in this "discreet" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a eco-friendlier decision for the eco-conscious," which essentially suggests avoiding the need to purchase fresh products at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the truly minimalist. An empty canvas, so to speak. A cocoon of serene simplicity against the clutter. I'm convinced, I get it. Do you intend a whiteout for your personal style?

Absolutely not. Have you ever tried to get out red wine stains from a white fabric? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do have a pair of formerly pristine Birkenstocks, and such staples are always in vogue.