Pantone responds to _Colour of the Year_ controversy

Since 2000_ Pantone has selected an animated red_ a periwinkle blue_ a warm and soft brown hue_ as well as a cosy peach_ a rose quartz_ a tranquil blue_ an earthy wine red_ and a radiant orchid_ all selected to serve as an expression of a mood or attitude_ but none has been as controversial as this year_s selection of _Cloud Dancer__ a colour described as “a billowy_ balanced white imbued with a feeling of serenity”.

Laurie Pressman_ executive director of Pantone Color Institute_ said in a statement: “We are living in a transitional time where people are seeking truth_ possibility_ and a new way of living.

“Pantone 11-4201 _Cloud Dancer_ is an airy white hue that exemplifies our search for balance between our digital future and our primal need for human connection_ a liminal space that is a launchpad for creative expression_ as individuals and communities are experimenting beyond traditional boundaries_ opening the door to increased imagination and innovation.”

Pantone went on to add that the white hue was chosen as a “blank canvas” to signify “desire for a fresh start_” while also opening “the door to new approaches” as _Cloud Dancer_ allows all colours to shine.

“Cloud Dancer quiets the mind_ encouraging true relaxation and focus that allows the mind to wander_ and creativity to breathe_ making room for innovation_” explains Pantone. “In a world where colour has become synonymous with personal expression_ this is a shade that can adapt_ harmonise_ and create contrast_ bringing a feeling of airy lightness to all product applications and environments_ whether making a stand-alone statement or combined with other hues.”

Pantone _Cloud Dancer_ colour of the year met with criticism

However_ while Pantone states the colour is calming and relaxing_ the global colour authority has been met with a backlash_ from colour enthusiasts stating that white isn_t a colour and a boring choice_ to others labelling _Cloud Dancer_ everything from “dystopian” to tone-deaf_ given the current political climate.

In response to the criticism_ Pressman told FashionUnited in a statement over e-mail: “This year_s _Colour of the Year_ has appeared in many different conversations. We understand that people bring different feelings to its meaning; colour shifts depending on context and perspective. “Cloud Dancer is a colour about relaxation_ reflection_ and creativity.

“The Pantone Colour of the Year selection process is rooted in an understanding of humanity_ drawing on close observation and global trend analysis to recognise what is emerging across the design landscape. It considers the moods a colour can evoke and the experiences it can shape in design. The global team at the Pantone Color Institute selected this colour for its emotional and creative resonance_ not as a statement on politics_ ideology_ or race. Pantone does not assign political narratives to colour; to select or avoid a hue on that basis would give such narratives a significance they do not hold in this process.”

For many online_ the colour choice was called “Pantonedeaf_” as the colour was accused of evoking white supremacy_ given the current political discourse in many countries across the world_ where right-wing politics has been on the rise_ and diversity_ equity_ and inclusion measures have been cut. There was also speculation that the white hue signals wealth and elitism_ while others drew comparisons to the American Eagle advert campaign in the summer with actress Sydney Sweeney that referenced “good genes_” which had critics stating that it had racist undertones.

Pressman added: “Cloud Dancer visually represents a space to create_ like a blank page ready for you to turn your inspiration into reality. It gives us the ability to become receptive both to what can be and what_s ahead_ as Cloud Dancer suggests_ the inner peace we feel after clearing the noise around us. As a colour_ it was chosen for its calming presence_ its ability to inspire reflection_ and its versatility across design. It offers an open foundation for creative exploration with colour.

“The name of the colour is a large part of the selection process_ and the name _Cloud Dancer_ reflects a universally shared experience: wherever we are in the world_ we all look up to the clouds for inspiration and wonder. In the simple act of looking up_ we_re connected by the drifting lightness of clouds. That universality is a huge part of why _Cloud Dancer_ was selected as the Pantone Colour of the Year 2026.”

When it comes to whether white is a colour?

Pressman said: “It_s an interesting conversation to have_ because we understand that white isn_t always the first thing people think of when they hear the word “colour”. Still_ it plays an essential role in every colour spectrum_ and especially in design. Every hue carries a psychological message_ and white is no exception.

“Scientifically_ the definition of white shifts depending on context. In light_ as demonstrated by Sir Isaac Newton_s prism experiments_ white contains all colours_ every wavelength combined. In pigment_ it_s often described as the absence of colour_ but that_s simply terminology. For anyone who perceives colour_ white is experienced as a presence with real visual impact.

“And in design_ white has to be treated with the same intentionality as any other hue. When colour must live across digital and print environments_ span different materials_ and translate consistently_ white needs to be specified. Its undertone_ how it interacts with surfaces_ and how it responds to light can dramatically change the experience.

“That_s exactly why we selected Cloud Dancer. It isn_t an optic white - it's a lofty white_ carefully balanced with both warm and cool undertones. That balance gives it exceptional versatility_ allowing it to harmonise with a full range of colours without leaning too creamy or too stark. Cloud Dancer was chosen as it works seamlessly with everything around it_ offering a refined neutrality that feels intentional and adaptable.”

How to use _Cloud Dancer_ in fashion

When it comes to utilising _Cloud Dancer_ in apparel_ Pantone adds that it is the “perfect anchor for monochromatic dressing_” as the “discrete white” has an understated presence. _Cloud Dancer_ can act as “a conscious statement of simplification_” whether worn in a classic button-down_ T-shirt_ or jeans_ or in activewear and suiting.

The white colour also lends itself to various fabrications from down- and foam-filled cloth_ to fluffy and hairy furs_ to plush and lofty wools gently swaddle_ as well as floaty chiffons and fluid jersey fabrics.

Cloud Dancer_s ability to mix effortlessly with every colour also makes it perfect for fashion accessories and footwear_ as the hue infuses ensembles with a “quiet sophistication and comfortable elegance_” without overstimulation.