Cloud Dancer & the Colours of 2026

You may have seen the buzz by now: Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year is Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201). It’s a soft, airy off white and, according to Pantone, it reflects a collective craving for calm, clarity and a fresh start - a symbolic “blank canvas” after years of upheaval and sensory overload.

I’ll be honest: I’m personally far more drawn to—well—colour. And Cloud Dancer has copped a fair bit of flak online already. Some have called it bland, safe, unimaginative… even “the colour of printer paper that’s been through a few rainy markets.” But there’s still something to be said for the role of softness in our surroundings. We can't all live in a maximalist colour explosion so in terms of interiors and decor, calm tones can offer breathing room. They create visual stillness and balance, allowing bolder elements in a space to shine. Think of the ongoing love for Japandi style - clean, quiet, pared back, and intentional. Not every room needs an exclamation mark; sometimes it needs a pause.

Some works from my Variegated series play beautifully into this. These pieces explore gentle shifts in tone, subtle movement, and quiet detail that fit naturally alongside these calm, reflective palettes.

What Other Forecasters Are Saying About 2026

Pantone is far from the only authority in the colour world these days. Here's a few predictions: 

Valspar 'Warm Eucalyptus'

A grounded, earthy green with warm undertones. It leans into nature, restoration and slow living - a gentle contrast to Pantone’s airy neutrality.

Graham & Brown 'Divine Damson'

A deep, dramatic plum cherry tone. Moody, intimate and rich - the opposite end of the spectrum to Cloud Dancer. It speaks to interiors embracing depth, character and emotional warmth.

Dulux 2026 Forecast Palettes

Rather than a single colour, Dulux offers full palettes:

• Elemental - soft greys, warm taupes, grounded neutrals

• Evoke - expressive warm tones: muted oranges, blush, mustard, jewel-like reds and blues

• Ethereal - light, dreamy pastels and softly diffused colour