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Hi there! I can't wait to find out what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, as every year beginning in 1999, Pantone chooses a signature color. This selection seeks to represent the current cultural mood—influencing everything from how we feel and our wardrobe selections to how we design our living spaces. 2025's color was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," following the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

The new selection, however, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

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

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… hold on, just white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a distinct hue?

How does one characterize the color of clouds? A blank page? Even though many view white as a color, the entire spectrum is essentially a perception of light wavelengths. It's present in a child's crayon box, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. The company states, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, isn't overstimulating, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes quiet sophistication.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has been less complimentary. A number of observers have accused Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Trend analyst Mandy Lee labeled it "a let-down." Critics have compared it with coded promotion of controversial ideas seen in other media.

Right, it's to be hoped they're cheerfully oblivious that this isn't the best moment to be overly emphasizing whiteness... Anyway, how might someone rarely near a runway apply this trend in daily life? I just painted my ceiling in white paint, is that enough?

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

It's funny you mention runways, since many collections this year have been bold and fuzzy, featuring naturally dyed materials on the runway.

All-white outfits featured prominently, as always, in designer collections—from simple silk T-shirts to sleek suits. High-profile figures have also been seen in monochromatic white ensembles at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: chances are you already own items in this "subtle" designated shade. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a eco-friendlier decision for the environmentally aware," which could mean not having to buy new items at all.

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the inherently lazy. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of calming neutrality amid the chaos. Alright, I'm on board. Do you intend a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Attempting to remove red wine stains from a white shirt? I don't need more laundry disasters in 2026.

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