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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 beginning in 1999, Pantone announces a defining hue. This choice seeks to represent the zeitgeist—influencing everything from our emotions and our wardrobe selections to interior styling. 2025's hue was the darker neutral "a creamy brown," which came after the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

The new selection, though, is somewhat unexpected. It is "a billowy white," labeled as a "ethereal and neutral white."

Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "a key structural color … allowing all colors to shine."

Hmm, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Is white even a distinct hue?

Can you even define the hue of a cloud? A blank page? Although many view white as a color, every hue is fundamentally a range of visible light. You can find it in a child's crayon box, so I'd argue the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is pulling our leg is harder to determine. According to their release, Cloud Dancer combines easily with other colors, isn't overstimulating, makes a minimalist statement, and radiates quiet sophistication.

The public reaction, however, has proven more critical. Some commentators have accused Pantone of being completely "out of touch." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "underwhelming." Critics have likened it to implied endorsement of problematic concepts seen in recent advertising.

Right, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that now is a sensitive time to be overly emphasizing the color white... So, how should I rarely near a catwalk apply this trend in daily life? My kitchen ceiling is my kitchen ceiling white, is that enough?

It absolutely counts. So would your white headphones, bathtub, or linen sheets.

It's funny you mention runways, since many collections this year have been vibrantly colorful, featuring eco-friendly feathers on the catwalk.

All-white outfits featured prominently, like always, in high-fashion looks—from structured tops to sleek suits. High-profile figures have also been spotted in crisp all-white attire at public appearances.

On the bright side is: you likely already possess items in this "understated" color of the year. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a greener option for the sustainability-minded," which might translate to not having to buy anything new at all.

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the truly minimalist. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A haven of calming neutrality amid the clutter. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Do you intend a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Definitely not. Have you ever tried to clean tomato sauce stains from a white fabric? I could do without more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of now off-white Birkenstocks, and such staples remain perpetually fashionable.