It’s that time of year! Major brands in the design industry are releasing their predictions for next year’s trending color. To keep all of the information in one place, we’ve rounded up all of the announcements released for 2026 thus far. Check back frequently for updates!
Pantone: Cloud Dancer
Pantone
On Dec. 4., Pantone introduced PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, as its pick for 2026. The billowy white hue is meant to evoke a feeling of serenity, according to Pantone, and serves as a “symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection.”
In a nod to personal wellness, Pantone further describes Cloud Dancer as a blank canvas, a fresh start, and a color that quiets the mind and encourages relaxation and focus, giving creativity room to breathe.
“At this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “The cacophony that surrounds us has become overwhelming, making it harder to hear the voices of our inner selves. A conscious statement of simplification, Cloud Dancer enhances our focus, providing release from the distraction of external influences.”
“We are living in a transitional time where people are seeking truth, possibility, and a new way of living,” added Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute. “PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is an airy white hue that exemplifies our search for balance between our digital future and our primal need for human connection—a liminal space that is a launchpad for creative expression—as individuals and communities are experimenting beyond traditional boundaries, opening the door to increased imagination and innovation.”
Behr Paint Company: Hidden Gem
Courtesy of Behr Paint Company
One of the first to announce its pick for color of the year, Behr Paint Company has selected Hidden Gem, a smoky jade. “Now more than ever, there’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces,” said Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint. “Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color—its depth and refinement meets the desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish.”
The color is part of the company’s 2026 Color Trends Palette—a collection of trend-forward colors that reflect a significant shift toward embracing warmth, comfort, and a hint of playfulness. The palette consists of grounding earth tones, deep jewel tones, and relaxed pastels.
Benjamin Moore: Silhouette
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
In October, Benjamin Moore revealed Silhouette AF-655 as its color of the year for 2026. The shade is a rich mix of espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal. “Silhouette embodies a renewed interest in suiting and classic silhouettes, the resurgence of timeless pieces, and a growing appreciation for the brown color family—rich with depth and a luxurious blend of burnt umber and delicate charcoal undertones,” says Andrea Magno, color marketing and development director at Benjamin Moore.
The color is part of its Color Trends 2026 palette of eight:
- Silhouette AF–655
- Raindance 1572
- Swiss Coffee OC–45
- First Crush CSP–310
- Batik AF–610
- Narragansett Green HC157
- Southwest Pottery 048
- Sherwood Tan 1054
Clark+Kensington: Hazelnut Crunch
Courtesy of Clark+Kensginton
In September, Clark+Kensington unveiled “Hazelnut Crunch” as its pick for 2026’s color of the year. The hue was chosen in collaboration with color trend forecaster Colour Hive, and reflects growing consumer trends toward “biophilic design, cozy minimalism, and nature-inspired living.” The color will be exclusively available at Ace Hardware, and anchors two new palettes:
- Tranquil: A collection of softly shaded mineral hues such as Frost (CW-C3), Mysterious Gray (N-C19), and Wood Smoke (37B-1), meant to evoke peace and well-being through subtle elegance.
- Grounded: A series of warm, neutral shades like Morning Coffee (N-W24), Candied Ginger (N-W28), and Farmers Market (24A-4) that draw inspiration from organic elements and nostalgic comfort.
Dutch Boy Paints: Melodious Ivory
Dutch Boy Paints
Dutch Boy Paints has announced Melodious Ivory as its choice for 2026. Describing the shade as “a soft, versatile neutral inspired by simplicity, nostalgia, and emotional connection,” the soft, creamy beige is a warm, timeless color that can complement a wide range of interior styles.
Three color palettes were announced as well:
- Heartland: Featuring Old Chaparral (402-7DB), a rich, earthy red; Melodious Ivory (313-2DB); and Blue Laguna (432-5DB), a faded denim blue, this palette captures a nostalgia and pays tribute to traditional craftsmanship and influenced by the revival of classic decor.
- Rekindle: Melodious Ivory (313-2DB), the organic warmth of 10 Gallon Hat (413-3DB), soothing Cypress Garden (424-4DB), reflect wellness, nature, and sustainable living.
- Serendipity: This palette, comprised of Melodious Ivory (313-2DB), Simply Yellow (115-3DB), and Nice Nectarine (210-4DB), brings retro-inspired energy to interiors and infuses some playfulness into modern, minimalist spaces.
Krylon: Matte Coffee Bean
Courtesy of Krylon
Spray paint brand Krylon has picked Matte Coffee Bean as its color of the year, channeling tranquility and “speaking to the growing preference for spaces that feel both calm and connected to nature.” The brand encourages DIYers to pair the color with organic materials like wood, stone, and marble to create timeless, calming living spaces.
The color has a complementing palette that combines neutrals with warm accents, including Krylon Fusion All-In-One colors Satin Khaki, Hammered Black, and Metallic Gold.
Sherwin-Williams: Universal Khaki SW 6150
Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams has picked the “easygoing neutral” Universal Khaki SW 6150 as its color of the year. Presented as an everyday classic and essential color for every home, this shade is a mid-tone neutral with yellow undertones. Sue Wadden, director of color marketing and Trendsight Team leader for Sherwin-Williams, says the color makes “Every room feel pulled together. Its warm, earthy tone works with natural finishes, crisp whites, or bold pops of color—bringing timeless style to your home.”
Look back at 2025’s color of the year.
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