Pantone has selected “Cloud Dancer,” a shade of white, as its 2026 Color of the Year, sparking backlash on social media and in some media outlets. Critics have accused the company of “whitewashing” and being out of touch, particularly given the current political discourse and rollback of DEI programs. Some have also suggested the color signals wealth and elitism. Pantone’s executive director, Leatrice Eiseman, defended the choice in a statement, saying it was based on emotional and creative resonance, not politics or ideology, and that the color represents relaxation, reflection, and creativity.
This controversy matters because it highlights how color choices in the design world can become entangled with broader cultural and political debates. The Pantone Color of the Year is a highly anticipated annual announcement that influences branding, fashion, and interior design globally. The selection of white for the first time in the program’s history, and the ensuing criticism, reflects heightened sensitivity around symbolism and inclusivity in consumer culture. The debate also underscores the power of social media to challenge corporate decisions and force companies to defend their creative processes.