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Greetings! I can't wait to discover what color will define 2026. What's the scoop?

Brace yourself, since every year for over two decades, Pantone chooses a defining hue. This choice is a reflection of the zeitgeist—influencing everything from our collective sentiment and fashion choices to home decor. Last year's selection was the rich tan "a creamy brown," which came after the subtly inviting "a fuzzy pastel."

The latest choice, in contrast, is particularly baffling. It is "an airy shade," described by a "soft and structural white."

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

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… wait, white? Could they be trolling us? Can white truly be considered a distinct hue?

What is the best way to characterize the color of clouds? Fresh snow? Even though people often think of white as a color, the entire spectrum is at its core a range of visible light. It's present in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms 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, provides a calm backdrop, declares simplicity, and exudes subtle elegance.

Feedback online, on the other hand, has been less complimentary. A number of observers have declared Pantone of being completely "Pantonedeaf." Fashion and trend forecaster Mandy Lee called it "disappointing." Others have compared it with coded promotion of controversial ideas seen in popular culture.

Right, it's to be hoped they're happily ignorant that the timing is awkward to be pointedly celebrating the color white... Therefore, how might someone rarely near a runway incorporate this news in daily life? I recently coated my ceiling with white, does that count?

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

The timing is curious you mention fashion shows, because many recent shows have been bold and fuzzy, featuring naturally dyed feathers on the runway.

All-white outfits were present, as always, in luxury shows—from simple silk T-shirts to tailored gowns. Well-known individuals have also been seen in crisp all-white ensembles at public appearances.

The positive takeaway is: chances are you already possess pieces in this "understated" chosen hue. According to Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a eco-friendlier decision for the eco-conscious," which could mean avoiding the need to purchase new items at all.

FINALLY, a fashion trend for the truly minimalist. A blank page, in a manner of speaking. A sanctuary of serene simplicity against the chaos. Alright, I'm on board. Are you planning a all-white theme for your personal style?

Absolutely not. Do you know how hard it is to clean tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I'm not seeking more laundry disasters in 2026.

I do possess a pair of now off-white sandals, and this classic footwear never go out of style.