Why Pantone’s ‘Cloud Dancer’ Is the Shade of the Year

A fresh start, reimagined in colour

Nothing says resetting your life quite like January first. With every new year comes fresh energy, new intentions, and for the interiors world, a defining moment that sets the tone for the months ahead. New trends, new ideas, and of course, a new colour. The long-anticipated Pantone Colour of the Year has taken the interiors space by storm, and we are fully embracing it.

Cloud Dancer is a lofty white shade that symbolises calm, encouraging slowing down and rediscovery in a world that has become increasingly fast-paced. Designed to spark creativity through stillness, Cloud Dancer promotes true relaxation and focus, allowing the mind to wander freely. It forms the perfect foundation for ethereal, whimsical interiors. It’s no surprise that designers and interior enthusiasts alike are gravitating towards this shade. With its adaptability and clean base, Cloud Dancer allows other colours and textures to shine, creating a harmonious and balanced interior palette.

Canvas: Forma Panoramic

The rise of slow living and ‘anti-trends’

The overarching theme for 2026 is authenticity, wellness, and slow living. Interiors are shifting towards spaces that feel comfortable, wholesome, and deeply peaceful. Interestingly, the defining trend of the year is ‘anti-trends’, with homeowners choosing colours that reflect personal identity and individuality rather than fast, over-consumed design choices.

Consumers are increasingly drawn to brands rooted in craftsmanship and heritage, where quality and storytelling sit at the heart of the brand. This mindset translates directly into colour choices for 2026. Think classic, timeless shades such as warm earthy tones and jewel-like hues inspired by historic European interiors. As long as a colour supports emotional wellbeing, it’s a good choice. Calm restoration is key. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Colour Institute, describes the Colour of the Year as “a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society, highlighting the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection.”

Canvas: Coco Landscape

How to style Cloud Dancer

Perfect pairings with Cloud Dancer include powdered pastels that create a feeling of airy lightness. These shades are soft, pleasing, and understated. Pastel interiors were once overly sweet, but today’s interpretation is far more muted, cloudy, and refined. Our top choices are powder blue, lavender haze, and soft mint, all of which complement Cloud Dancer beautifully without overpowering a space.

Pantone isn’t the only influence shaping 2026’s colour direction. Etsy has also revealed its Colour of the Year, based on search data and cultural trends. For the first time, the decision was made in collaboration with its community, with 67% of voters choosing Patina Blue. This blue-green hue is inspired by the way copper naturally ages over time. Both Cloud Dancer and Patina Blue share the same underlying values of timelessness and authenticity.

For those drawn to richer palettes, deep wine tones and burgundy shades pair beautifully with Cloud Dancer. These colours add drama while still complementing the softness of the space. Whether introduced through a feature wall, a statement rug, or accents such as marble, stripes, or deep wood tones, these deeper hues bring contrast, depth, and a timeless sense of elevation.

Creating calm, room by room

Whether you’re refreshing a living room, hallway, or bedroom, Cloud Dancer’s warm undertones make it an ideal backdrop for creating inviting, grounded interiors. Neutral palettes like this work effortlessly to anchor architectural details and highlight natural textures, elevating the overall look of the space. On sofas, Cloud Dancer feels especially welcoming, blending seamlessly into any scheme while remaining a classic, long-lasting choice.

Canvas: Terres Panoramic

Cloud Dancer meets art and texture

Cloud Dancer is an incredibly versatile hue, enhancing Scandinavian, modern, and European-inspired interiors alike. It provides a subtle foundation that allows texture, shape, and wall art to take centre stage. Mala’s Reset Edit is designed to bring a sense of calm and clarity into the home. Inspired by soft neutrals, gentle textures, and the idea of slowing down, this curated edit focuses on artwork that creates balanced, peaceful spaces.

Our perfect pairing with Cloud Dancer is Dan Hobday’s Clouds, an ethereal composition delicately floating in a haze of mystery. Soft white tones blend seamlessly with muted grey hues, creating a serene artwork that invites wonder and ambiguity. Ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or any space where a sense of peace and stillness is desired.

Style the look with fresh flowers or greenery, warm brass accents, and playful shapes in vases and accessories. Add faux fur or tactile fabrics to introduce softness and depth, creating a layered, thoughtful interior that feels timeless, tranquil, and deeply restorative.