When “Cloud Dancer” was first unveiled as Pantone's Colour of the Year for 2026, the announcement quickly ignited a flurry of comments across social media platforms. Critics online argued that the slightly off-white tone, characterised by subtle beige undertones and a muted, pastel-like appearance, was politically tone-deaf at best, and a subtle dog whistle promoting status quo conservatism at worst. Meanwhile, some users dismissed the choice as "boring” and labelled it a “colourless indicator of uncertain economic times," implying that the colour reflected societal stagnation and indecision. Pantone's subsequent response to the backlash, however, has itself stirred further controversy; some users implied that the entire campaign was a form of "rage bait," deliberately designed to provoke emotional reactions and amplify division. The core question remains: was Pantone genuinely trying to challenge perceptions by asking, "Is white really a colour?" or simply stoking controversy for publicity? Cloud Dancer Named Pantone Color of the Year 2026: What It Means and Represents.

So, what exactly is the Pantone Colour of the Year?

According to Pantone's website, the program was launched in 1999 to foster conversations about the connection between culture and colour. Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, explains, "We wanted to show how what’s happening in our global culture is expressed through the language of color.”

To do this, Pressman says they rely on a worldwide team of colour experts to find a hue that crosses all design disciplines; a colour that captures a mood or attitude that resonates globally. Essentially, they look for a shade that reflects what people seek and what they need.

In 2025, the Colour of the Year was Mocha Mousse, aligning with current fashion trends and showing the team’s finger on the pulse.

But why choose "Cloud Dancer" for 2026?

Pantone's official statement, released on December 3, describes Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201) as “an ethereal white hue" that symbolizes calmness amid a hectic society rediscovering the value of reflection and measured thought.

Many social media users didn’t feel the peace the colour was supposed to bring. Some argue that the choice echoes the rise of white nationalism in mainstream politics, making the almost-white shade seem tone-deaf amid broader cultural tensions. When white supremacy resurges loudly in leadership and policies, elevating white as the colour of the year can come across as insensitive. Colour choices aren’t made in a vacuum—they mirror societal dynamics, highlight who’s in the room, who’s missing, and what messages might be unintentionally reinforced. In this context, the decision indicates a certain awareness of the marginalized communities navigating everyday life.

One user claiming to teach colour theory remarked, “White, by definition, is the absence of colour. Pantone is a colour company. This choice shows a stunning lack of creativity and a disconnect from the artistic and design communities. In a time when colour is used to express culture, emotion, and innovation, choosing a white-based shade feels tone-deaf at best. At worst, it aligns with cultural and political symbolism that many find troubling.”

Across the internet, many shared similar sentiments, calling on the company to reconsider. But how did Pantone respond to these criticisms—and why did it provoke more backlash?

On December 4, Pantone President Sky Kelley addressed the controversy during a launch event, acknowledging she expected the choice to be “controversial." Her comments, posted on Instagram, suggest that Pantone was aware of the potential negative interpretations—perhaps even banking on it—making some accuse the company of “rage baiting" to generate free publicity. One Instagram user summed it up, saying, "They knew it would stir controversy. Looks like they wanted to ride a wave of free PR from the ongoing debates about colour earlier this year. Since Pantone isn’t part of Adobe palettes anymore, they need a new way to stay relevant." Google Year in Search 2025: Ceasefire, Mock Drill, Stampede and Ee Sala Cup Namde Among Top 10 Most Searched 'Meaning' by People in India.

While we can't know Pantone's true intentions, it’s clear that conversations about the Colour of the Year aren’t happening in a vacuum. As the Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute once said, "colour is the most powerful communication tool."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 08, 2025 01:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).