WHITER shade of pale

How to style Pantone's Colour of the Year 2026, Cloud Dancer - a calming white hue that's a win-win with creatives and decor enthusiasts, says SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

- SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

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SOFT, graceful and easy on the eye, the background behind Pantone's Colour of the Year for 2026, Cloud Dancer, is about providing a sense of calm and cited as a "perfect blank slate" in the worlds of interiors, fashion and design.

Described as a "billowy, balanced white imbued with a feeling of serenity," experts at the colour institute describe Cloud Dancer as a "symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection".

Similar to a blank canvas, Jane Boddy, creative director of Pantone Colour Institute says one of the key strengths of Pantone 11-4201 is its versatility.

"It can be used to make a big statement or to create a more understated, calming environment," says Jane.

"Unlike older approaches to all white interiors, which often felt stark or overly pure, the focus now is on softness that's why a soft neutral white works so well."

It's important to build texture into it, too, underlines Jane. "Think of an interior that layers soft clays, textured walls, natural cottons, pulled concrete or warm woods."

"The interest comes from the materials, all working within one gentle colour family," she explains.

"The shade also works beautifully on a single standout piece.