Pantone Unveils Its Softest (And Most Divisive) Shade Yet: Cloud Dancer

Light, tranquil and intentionally understated, Cloud Dancer has already stirred debate.

Solaqua (Credit: @aideen_cd)

The Pantone Colour of the Year 2026 has landed, and honestly it’s not what we were expecting.

Cloud Dancer has been described as a soft, airy white (do we even call that a colour?) that taps into our collective craving for calm. A hue that supposedly embodies quiet reflection in an increasingly noisy world.

A lovely sentiment, but a far cry from the bold, bright shades trend forecasters have been predicting. Safe to say, the internet has thoughts.

The term “recession indicator” has been thrown around in the comments. Others have likened the announcement to Sydney Sweeney’s controversial “good jeans” campaign with American Eagle. Yes, it seems Pantone has gone political.

Last year’s Mocha Mouse proved to be spot on, and remains one of the most popular shades of the moment, so has Pantone just missed the mark this year? Have they just discovered rage baiting? Or can fashion’s favourite neutral genuinely define the year? That’s still up for debate.

One thing’s for sure, we are already seeing the soft-focus trend come through in fashion. It’s less about colour, more about feel. Sheer layers, lace details and fluid silks—an ethereal, dreamy look that feels modern yet timeless. Ready to embrace the soft-focus trend? Our curated Cloud Dancer edit is below.

Saba Dharma Off Shoulder Drape Top, $229

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Net-a-porter

Ganni Eyelet Lace-Up Ballerinas, $441 (was $734)

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Sir

Sir Blanca Top ($240) & Skirt ($290)

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Oroton

Oroton Clara Mini Bag, $399

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The Iconic

Lover Layla Asymmetric Sheer Top, $120

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The Iconic

Reliquia Cocoon Pearl Earrings, $199

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Noah The Label

Noah the Label White Scarf, $89

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Assembly Label

Assembly Label Lola Barrel Leg Pant In White, $100

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The Iconic

Witchery Asymmetrical Lace Camisole, $139

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Meshki Bianca Satin Halter Top in Ivory, $159

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Perfect Stranger

Perfect Stranger Calliope Bralette ($50) & Bloomers ($25)

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Posse Pearl pant and top (Credit: @satyff)

Posse Pearl Pants, $349

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The Iconic

Miu Miu 0MU 07ZS, $417.20 (was $596)

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Blanca

Blanca Delmare Ivory Skirt ($330) & Top ($320)

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Solaqua’s Aurora Tunic in Ivory pictured on Fredrika Akander (Credit: @fakander)

Solaqua’s Aurora Tunic in Ivory, $320

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St Agni

St Agni Halter Wrap Dress in White, $549

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Bec + Bridge

Bec + Bridge Finley Mini Dress, $300

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Harris Tapper

Harris Tapper Beru Top in Silk Embroidery, $429 NZD

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Chulle

Chulle Lila Top ($189) & Flow Skirt ($179)

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Maison Essentiele

Maison Essentiele Lace Pants, $295

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Adore our selection of mocha mousse-inspired clothing and accessories, perfectly aligned with the Pantone Colour of the Year? You’ll also fall for our Sitchu Picks series and these effortlessly sophisticated workwear brands

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