Pantone has announced its 2026 colour of the year: 'Cloud Dancer', a shade of white described as 'billowy, balanced' and 'a key structural color'. The choice has sparked confusion and criticism, with some branding it 'Pantonedeaf'.
Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Color Institute, said the colour 'allows all colors to shine' and represents a minimalist statement of quiet sophistication. However, fashion forecaster Mandy Lee called it 'disappointing', while others drew comparisons to controversial advertising.
Despite the backlash, white remains a staple on runways, appearing at Chanel, Givenchy and on celebrities like Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Melania Trump. Pantone also highlighted the shade's sustainability, suggesting consumers may already own items in this colour.
For the unmotivated, Cloud Dancer offers a trend that requires no new purchases. But for those wary of stains, it may be a laundry risk not worth taking.
