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Hi there! I'm incredibly excited to find out what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, since every year for over two decades, Pantone announces a signature color. This choice seeks to represent the spirit of the times—informing everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to how we design our living spaces. The previous year's color was the darker neutral "Mocha Mousse," following the subtly inviting "Peach Fuzz."

The new choice, however, is particularly baffling. It is "Cloud Dancer," described by a "ethereal and neutral white."

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

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Is this a prank? Is white even a real color?

What is the best way to characterize the shade of milk? A blank page? Even though some consider white as a color, all color is essentially a range of visible light. It appears in a set of colored pencils, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

If Pantone is pulling our leg is trickier to figure out. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, isn't overstimulating, declares simplicity, and radiates refined calm.

The public reaction, however, has not been as kind. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "a let-down." Some have even drawn parallels to coded promotion of problematic concepts seen in other media.

Okay, hopefully they're happily ignorant that this isn't the best moment to be pointedly celebrating pure white... So, how can a regular person not exactly adjacent to a runway incorporate this news in daily life? I recently coated my ceiling with white, does that count?

That definitely qualifies. This applies equally to your earbuds, bathtub, or ceramic plate.

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

White ensembles made appearances, as per usual, in high-fashion looks—from elegant blouses to sleek suits. Celebrities and public figures have also been photographed in monochromatic white attire at prestigious shows.

On the bright side is: chances are you already own items in this "subtle" chosen hue. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "embodies a greener option for the sustainability-minded," which might translate to skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

SO, a style movement for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, if you will. A sanctuary of serene simplicity against the noise. I'm convinced, I'm sold. Are you planning a monochrome palette for your closet?

Not a chance. Attempting to get out grass stains from a white fabric? I'm not seeking additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

I do possess a pair of once-white Birkenstocks, and this classic footwear remain perpetually fashionable.