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

Brace yourself, as every year since 1999, Pantone announces a Color of the Year. This pick aims to capture the spirit of the times—shaping everything from our emotions and what we wear to home decor. Last year's hue was the deep beige "Mocha Mousse," which came after the soft and warm "Peach Fuzz."

The latest choice, though, is particularly baffling. It is "a billowy white," described by 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."

Well, Cloud Dancer sounds… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a real color?

Can you even define the color of clouds? A blank page? While some consider white as a color, all color is at its core a spectrum of light waves. It appears in a box of crayons, so for practical purposes the answer is yes.

The question of whether Pantone is pulling our leg is trickier to figure out. According to their release, Cloud Dancer mixes well with other colors, avoids sensory overload, declares simplicity, and projects subtle elegance.

Feedback online, however, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have suggested Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "a let-down." Some have even likened it to subtle advocacy of certain ideologies seen in popular culture.

I see, it's to be hoped they're blissfully unaware that this isn't the best moment to be explicitly championing whiteness... Therefore, how might someone who doesn't follow a fashion show incorporate this trend in daily life? I recently coated my ceiling with white, is that enough?

That definitely qualifies. The same goes for your wireless speakers, tiles, or favorite mug.

It's funny you mention catwalks, since many collections this year have been exceptionally bright, featuring eco-friendly fabrics on the runway.

All-white outfits were present, as always, in designer collections—from elegant blouses to collared dresses. Celebrities and public figures have also been spotted in crisp all-white outfits at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: you likely already own items in this "subtle" color of the year. As Pressman, Cloud Dancer "signifies a more sustainable choice for the sustainability-minded," which might translate to avoiding the need to purchase fresh products at all.

FINALLY, a style movement for the inherently lazy. A fresh start, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of serene simplicity within the chaos. I'm convinced, I'm sold. Do you intend a all-white theme for your wardrobe?

Not a chance. Attempting to remove red wine stains from a white fabric? I don't need additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

I do own a pair of formerly pristine comfort shoes, and such staples remain perpetually fashionable.