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Greetings! I'm so eager to discover what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, as every year since 1999, Pantone selects a signature color. This selection is a reflection of the spirit of the times—shaping everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to home decor. Last year's color was the deep beige "a creamy brown," following the subtly inviting "Peach Fuzz."

This year's selection, though, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls 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 stand out."

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a proper color?

How does one describe the shade of milk? A blank page? Although some consider white as a color, all color is at its core a spectrum of light waves. It's present in a set of colored pencils, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is trickier to figure out. The company states, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and radiates quiet sophistication.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has proven more critical. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Trend analyst Mandy Lee described it as "a let-down." Critics have likened it to subtle advocacy 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 overly emphasizing whiteness... Therefore, how should I who doesn't follow a catwalk use this information in everyday routine? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, does that qualify?

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

The timing is curious you mention runways, as many collections this year have been bold and fuzzy, featuring plant-based fabrics on the stage.

All-white outfits featured prominently, like always, in luxury shows—from structured tops to sleek suits. Well-known individuals have also been seen in crisp all-white ensembles at prestigious shows.

The good news is: you likely already own something in this "understated" chosen hue. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a eco-friendlier decision for the environmentally aware," which essentially suggests avoiding the need to purchase new items at all.

AT LAST, a style movement for the inherently lazy. An empty canvas, if you will. A cocoon of calming neutrality against the clutter. Okay, I'm sold. Will you be creating a all-white theme for your closet?

Not a chance. Do you know how hard it is to remove tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I'm not seeking extra stain-removal drama in 2026.

I do own a pair of once-white Birkenstocks, and those are always in vogue.