Pantone Unveils Its Softest (And Most Divisive) Shade Yet: Cloud Dancer
Light, tranquil and intentionally understated, Cloud Dancer has already stirred debate.
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
Ganni Eyelet Lace-Up Ballerinas, $441 (was $734)
Sir Blanca Top ($240) & Skirt ($290)
Oroton Clara Mini Bag, $399
Lover Layla Asymmetric Sheer Top, $120
Reliquia Cocoon Pearl Earrings, $199
Noah the Label White Scarf, $89
Assembly Label Lola Barrel Leg Pant In White, $100
Witchery Asymmetrical Lace Camisole, $139
Meshki Bianca Satin Halter Top in Ivory, $159
Perfect Stranger Calliope Bralette ($50) & Bloomers ($25)
Posse Pearl Pants, $349
Miu Miu 0MU 07ZS, $417.20 (was $596)
Blanca Delmare Ivory Skirt ($330) & Top ($320)
Solaqua’s Aurora Tunic in Ivory, $320
St Agni Halter Wrap Dress in White, $549
Bec + Bridge Finley Mini Dress, $300
Harris Tapper Beru Top in Silk Embroidery, $429 NZD
Chulle Lila Top ($189) & Flow Skirt ($179)
Maison Essentiele Lace Pants, $295
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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