Pantone Colour of the Year 2026: Cloud Dancer

Loren 2 Seater Sofa - www.furniturechoice.co.uk 

“Pantone may be telling us they’re now in their soft era, with the announcement of its Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer. Described as a ‘lofty white that serves as a calming influence’, it signals the promise of fresh starts and a blank canvas as we head into the new year. Like a white cloud greeting us on a sunny day, Cloud Dancer is a reminder that being soft and gentle can still make a statement. 

As a white tone, Cloud Dancer brings its own brand of light and airy feel to its surroundings. Cloud Dancer has a light off-white tinge, reflecting the move away from cool whites with blue undertones to warmer, natural white tones. It feels more restorative instead of stark and highlights the many subtle forms of white that we can choose from. 

White tones open up the possibilities for experimentation while offering a point of reflection. Its serene vibe attracts clean, uncomplicated style when used as a standalone colour or when paired with other colours for contrast. Cloud Dancer’s light, floaty and clean palette makes it a soft base for pastel colours like baby blue, millennial pink, mint green and lavender. 

When it comes to interiors, Cloud Dancer is an easy pick for the walls. Its tranquil vibe pairs well with tactile fabrics like velvet, plush fabric, linen, boucle, chenille and wool. With the clever use of texture, you can’t go wrong with a monochrome all-white room. We have been gravitating towards softer textures over the past few years, not just in terms of upholstery but also on our walls and floors, with the rise of textured wallpaper. The possibilities are endless with white walls — we may see the return of minimalist interiors, colour blocking with bold sofa colours, monochrome interiors, black and white décor or Art Deco-inspired interiors.

However, even though white is a versatile and timeless choice, many people online have polarising views on Cloud Dancer. As much as white tones bring a cosy vibe, they can also feel clinical if not styled correctly. The comments on social media reflect disappointment among many, as Pantone is the most famous colour institute. 

Does Cloud Dancer have to be the colour of choice when we’re all looking for pops of colour to add joy to our lives? The past few years have seen colour trends shift towards warmer neutrals and the rise of dopamine decor. Will this reflect in a shift of colour trends? Only time will tell.”

For more tips on how to style a white living room, check out our guide for inspiration.