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

Get ready, because every year beginning in 1999, Pantone selects a defining hue. This pick aims to capture the spirit of the times—influencing everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to how we design our living spaces. 2025's color was the darker neutral "a coffee-inspired shade," following the subtly inviting "a fuzzy pastel."

The new choice, however, is even more puzzling. It is "a billowy white," labeled as a "soft and structural white."

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

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Is this a prank? Is white even a distinct hue?

What is the best way to characterize the hue of a cloud? Milk? Even though some consider white as a color, every hue is essentially a spectrum of light waves. You can find it in a box of crayons, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is out of touch is trickier to figure out. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and projects subtle elegance.

Responses from critics, however, has proven more critical. A number of observers have accused Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Style expert Mandy Lee called it "disappointing." Some have even likened it to implied endorsement of controversial ideas seen in popular culture.

I see, it's to be hoped they're blissfully unaware that the timing is awkward to be pointedly celebrating pure white... Anyway, how might someone who doesn't follow a catwalk use this news in my world? I recently coated my ceiling with white, is that enough?

That definitely qualifies. So would your white headphones, sink, or linen sheets.

The timing is curious you mention catwalks, because many this season's presentations have been vibrantly colorful, featuring naturally dyed materials on the stage.

White ensembles featured prominently, like always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to sleek suits. Celebrities and public figures have also been photographed in pristine white ensembles at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: you probably already possess items in this "subtle" designated shade. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a greener option for the environmentally aware," which might translate to skipping the requirement for fresh products at all.

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, if you will. A cocoon of monochromatic zen amid the chaos. Okay, I'm sold. Do you intend a monochrome palette for your wardrobe?

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

I do own a pair of formerly pristine Birkenstocks, and such staples never go out of style.