Pantone’s Colour of the Year For 2026 Announced as Cloud Dancer: A Light, Lofty White

It seems as though Pantone has their head in the clouds for this year’s anointed “Colour of the Year”. The lofty-white colour is called Cloud Dancer, said to reflect our collective need to step back from the chaos of 24/7 life. Pantone says this choice reflects our need to “look for respite and relief from emotional and physical stimulation by disconnecting and stepping away from the incessant demands of daily life to deeply rejuvenate mentally, physically, and emotionally”... But is it all just fluff? 

Photo credit to Pantone.

Finding Joy in Simplicity With Cloud Dancer

This Colour of the Year choice is certainly proving divisive, which seems to be the opposite effect of Pantone’s plan. While last year’s warm-neutral Mocha Mousse was all about rich indulgence, Cloud Dancer is meant to take a gentler approach, serving as “a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection”. This soft, pillowy white is grounding, restorative, and serene. 

It’s a contrast to the past year, where we’ve seen some of the biggest interior trends focus on bold colour choices and maximalist ideals, from Dopamine Decor to Colour Drenching. Pantone says they have released this colour as a response to this “overstimulation”, aiming to instead, “allow the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, making room for innovation”. 

Photo credit to @ash.house.33 on Instagram featuring our Kollektion White Rug.

How to Style Cloud Dancer in Your Home 

When it comes to styling white, texture and quality are the key. Take inspiration from Sensorial Design and the Quiet Luxury trend for your neutral decor. Focus on timeless design, beautiful outlines, and comfortable textures to create a sophisticated, calming, and tranquil space. 

Photo credit to @emilymay_interiors on Instagram featuring our Maze Rama Ivory Rug.

Cloud Dancer also works as a structural, foundational colour that you can build upon with your own creativity. Some beautiful colour palettes, suggested by Pantone, include: 

Powdered Pastels 

Embrace restorative pastels as a way to uplift your home with calming, gentle colour. Pastel pins, blues, and purples are airy and inviting, pairing perfectly with the billowly Cloud Dancer. 

Featuring our Reef Blocks Pastel Rug.

Light & Shadow

Cloud Dancer “dissolves into shadowy shades” like fresh, light blue, powdered navy, and quiet violet for a sophisticated, refined colour palette. 

Featuring our Sanderson Anthea China Blue Rug.

Our Favourite Rugs Inspired by Cloud Dancer 

If you love the calming, light neutral that is Cloud Dancer and want to lift your home with it, here are our favourite rugs inspired by the Pantone Colour of the Year 2026. 

Photo credit to @ourruralnest on Instagram.

Our Finley Ivory Marl Rug is a gorgeous, woven rug in a neutral ivory. It is a timeless and versatile piece you can easily style your space around.

Our Wild Strawberry Tonal Rug by Wedgewood offers a cute, cottage-core take on Cloud Dancer with its floral and strawberry design. Pair it with rustic wooden furniture and comfortable furnishings for a sophisticated yet welcoming cottage vibe. 

Our Mirage Haze Beige rug by Asiastic is a more modern take on Cloud Dancer with its marble-like design. Pair with sleek furniture in neutral colours for a contemporary finished look. 

Our Romantic Magnolia Rug by Ted Baker is creamy and timeless. A beautifully versatile piece that will elevate any interior style and is made with 100% pure wool for long-lasting style. 

Embrace Pantone’s Colour of the Year in Your Home 

Uplift your space with airy delight by embracing Cloud Dancer in your interiors. Explore our stunning range of white rugs and find your dream piece today.