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Pantone’s announcement of its 2026 Colour of the Year has sparked significant discussion, as the chosen hue is a shade of white called Cloud Dancer. This choice marks the first time white has ever been named Pantone’s Colour of the Year, a decision that has surprised many and drawn a range of reactions. Described by Pantone as “lofty” and “billowy,” Cloud Dancer is positioned as a symbol of calmness in a society seeking quiet reflection after prolonged sensory overload. Pantone emphasizes that this colour represents more than just an aesthetic; it embodies a mindset aimed at slowing down and finding peace.
Despite Pantone’s intentions, the selection of white has not been universally embraced. Critics have argued that promoting a minimalist white aesthetic feels disconnected from most people’s lived realities, particularly since many dwellings are smaller and less pristine than the idealized, clean white spaces often depicted in design magazines. Additionally, some voices highlight the potential racial implications of elevating white as aspirational, especially amid ongoing cultural and political discussions surrounding race and representation.
Designer Chris Beaumont points out that white is rarely neutral in cultural terms, noting its association with minimalist celebrity interiors that symbolize wealth, order, and distance from chaos. He describes Cloud Dancer as embodying a sense of austerity and moral minimalism, a colour choice that signifies virtue through neutrality rather than inspiration. He also sees a disconnect between this choice and the recent shift in how people use their homes as emotional sanctuaries, suggesting that white might instead amplify feelings of bleakness when paired with stark lighting. Interior designer Lara Clark echoes this sentiment, arguing that white often reads as clinical rather than calming in real home environments, sometimes evoking “hospital vibes” instead of warmth or comfort.
On the other hand, some experts view Cloud Dancer positively. Style and trend expert Victoria Robinson describes it as a “beautiful choice,” elegant and soft rather than harsh, suitable for creating serene bedrooms or living spaces. Interior designer James Mellan-Matulewicz likens white to vanilla ice cream—safe and widely liked though not a favorite—and points out that white backgrounds can highlight architectural features, a trend gaining popularity. Luxury stylist Oriona Robb discusses how white in fashion
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