The Pantone Color Institute says this year’s selection signifies people’s desire for a fresh start.
WASHINGTON — Pantone has unveiled Cloud Dancer, a shade of white, as its Color of the Year for 2026.
Officially named PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer “serves as a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection.”
The Pantone Color Institute is considered a top authority on color and forecasts trends and advises brands. The organization says this year’s selection “quiets the mind, encouraging true relaxation and focus that allows the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, making room for innovation.”
According to the New York Times, this is the first time Pantone has chosen a shade of white in the 26 years it has been picking a color of the year.
“Similar to a blank canvas, Cloud Dancer signifies our desire for a fresh start. Peeling away layers of outmoded thinking, we open the door to new approaches,” the group said in Thursday’s announcement.
The institute makes its annual color of the year selection after digging into current cultural references and then focusing on a color family.
“At this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity,” Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, said. “The cacophony that surrounds us has become overwhelming, making it harder to hear the voices of our inner selves. A conscious statement of simplification, Cloud Dancer enhances our focus, providing release from the distraction of external influences.”
Some of the past Pantone colors of the year included Mocha Mousse in 2025, Peach Fuzz in 2024 and Viva Magenta in 2023.
CNN Newsource contributed to this report.