JAKARTA - Pantone's decision to designate Cloud Dancer or a soft white as the Color of the Year 2026 has garnered harsh criticism. Pantone, which is an expert in color trends, is even considered tone deaf or insensitive to the tensions that have occurred recently.
As is known, Cloud Dancer refers to the white color coded 11-4201 in the Pantone catalog. Many consider the selection of the white color to be loaded with political and ideological meanings, especially in relation to discussions related to diversity, equality, and inclusion.
"At a time when color is used to express culture, diversity, emotion, and innovation, choosing white-based shades feels insensitive," an Instagram user said, quoted by People, on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
On social media, there was also a hashtag with the words "whitewashing" and "pantonedeaf", as a form of protest against the company for choosing Cloud Dancer as the 2026 color.
"Choosing white in the current social and political situation really conveys a certain message," added designer and creator at Rheefine Company, Jason Rhee.
English:
The current social and political issues that are the focus of criticism are related to the rise of white nationalism and debates about race and identity.
However, Pantone Color Institute Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman stressed that the Cloud Dancer voters as the 2026 color trend had nothing to do with politics. He also emphasized that there was no political narrative on color.
"The global team at the Pantone Color Institute chose this color based on its emotional and creative resonance, not as a political, ideological, or racial statement," said Eiseman.
"Choosing or avoiding colors on that basis will actually give a meaningless meaning in this process," he added.
Regarding various interpretations of Cloud Dancer, Eiseman said that the meaning of a color depends very much on the context and perspective of each individual. He also reiterated the meaning of the color from Pantone.
"Cloud Dance is a color about relaxation, reflection, and creativity," he concluded.
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