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Hello! I can't wait to discover what color is set to be 2026. Tell me everything!

Brace yourself, since every year for over two decades, Pantone selects a signature color. This selection is a reflection of the current cultural mood—influencing everything from our emotions and what we wear to home decor. 2025's hue was the deep beige "Mocha Mousse," preceded by the soft and warm "a delicate peach tone."

The latest selection, though, is even more puzzling. It is "Cloud Dancer," which Pantone calls a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

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

How does one characterize the shade of milk? A blank page? Even though many view white as a color, every hue is essentially a range of visible light. It appears in a set of colored pencils, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is pulling our leg is harder to determine. They claim, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, isn't overstimulating, declares simplicity, and radiates subtle elegance.

Feedback online, however, has been less complimentary. Several voices have suggested Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Style expert Mandy Lee called it "underwhelming." Some have even likened it to coded promotion of certain ideologies seen in recent advertising.

Okay, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be pointedly celebrating pure white... Therefore, how can a regular person not exactly adjacent to a runway use this news in daily life? I just painted my ceiling with white, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. This applies equally to your white headphones, tiles, or favorite mug.

It's funny you mention catwalks, as many this season's presentations have been exceptionally bright, featuring naturally dyed fabrics on the runway.

The color white featured prominently, like always, in luxury shows—from simple silk T-shirts to tailored gowns. Celebrities and public figures have also been photographed in pristine white outfits at major events.

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

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. A blank page, so to speak. A cocoon of calming neutrality amid the noise. Okay, I'm sold. Do you intend a all-white theme for your closet?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to get out grass stains from a white shirt? I could do without extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do possess a pair of now off-white Birkenstocks, and this classic footwear never go out of style.