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Pantone's 'Cloud Dancer' Sparks Controversy Amid Criticism

1/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pantone selected "cloud dancer," an off-white shade, as its color of the year for 2026.
The decision has sparked criticism, with some labeling it a "white supremacist dog-whistle" amid rising white nationalism and backlash against diversity initiatives.
Critics argue the choice reflects a disconnect from societal issues and associate it with a "clean-girl aesthetic" that promotes conformity.
Pantone defends the selection, stating that skin tones did not influence the decision.

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Story summary

Pantone selected "cloud dancer," an off-white shade, as its color of the year for 2026.
The decision has sparked criticism, with some labeling it a "white supremacist dog-whistle" amid rising white nationalism and backlash against diversity initiatives.
Critics argue the choice reflects a disconnect from societal issues and associate it with a "clean-girl aesthetic" that promotes conformity.
Pantone defends the selection, stating that skin tones did not influence the decision.