Pantone has ignited debate with its selection of the 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, a shade described as a versatile white. While the announcement has drawn mixed reactions, many have labeled it a safe choice. Some critics liken it to a lack of creativity, drawing parallels to the infamous ad featuring actress Sydney Sweeney. Pantone’s official statement highlights the color’s adaptability, suggesting it can enhance the vibrancy of other hues while offering a sense of airy lightness.
As the color finds its way into various aspects of life in Austin, residents are discovering unique ways to incorporate Cloud Dancer into their surroundings. Here are some notable examples of how this hue is manifesting throughout the city.
Local Products and Experiences Featuring Cloud Dancer
A chic, minimalist mug has emerged as a popular item among Austin consumers. While a Pantone-branded white mug can retail for around $30, local options are available at a fraction of the cost. For example, H-E-B offers similar mugs for less than $4, and Made In, a cookware brand based in Austin, sells sets of four Cloud Dancer mugs for $40, with options for colorful rims to add flair.
The real estate market in Austin also reflects the embrace of this color. Many new-build homes purchased during the pandemic feature all-white exteriors, often paired with contrasting black trim. Recent reports indicate that a third of these homes may be sold at a loss, marking the highest rate of risk among major metropolitan areas.
Cultural Touchpoints and Community Engagement
In the realm of food and beverages, Desnudo coffee shop stands out. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to non-dairy options, Desnudo offers oat milk served from its eye-catching blue coffee trailers, making it a favorite among locals. The shop has received recognition as the Best Coffee Shop in Austin by CultureMap’s Tastemaker Awards, further establishing its reputation.
For those looking to contribute to the community while embracing the color trend, donations to the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) can be made in a friend’s name. Donors receive a practical receipt printed on Cloud Dancer-colored paper, combining philanthropy with style.
Baking enthusiasts can also join in on the trend with flour from Barton Springs Mill. The mill produces a premium all-purpose flour that achieves a silky appearance without bleaching agents, enhancing the quality of baked goods.
The tech landscape in Austin is also witnessing the influence of Cloud Dancer, particularly through the presence of Waymo driverless vehicles. These neutral white cars have sparked discussions about the future of technology in the city. Tensions have arisen, however, as the Austin Independent School District reported multiple incidents of Waymo vehicles illegally passing school bus stop arms, raising safety concerns.
As the festive season approaches, shoppers can find Cloud Dancer-colored monosodium glutamate granules at Hana World, a specialty Asian grocery store set to close permanently on December 15, 2023. The owners have committed to using final sales to support their staff during the holidays, adding a layer of community spirit to the shopping experience.
Lastly, for those seeking tranquility, Parker + Scott offers candles that embrace the essence of calm. Their “Smells Like Five Minutes of Peace” candle aims to foster relaxation through soothing scents, illustrating how the color can be interpreted in a more meaningful way.
In a city like Austin, where personal expression thrives, the incorporation of Cloud Dancer reflects both individual choices and broader trends. As the color permeates various aspects of life, it serves as a reminder of the diverse ways people engage with their surroundings and the ongoing dialogue about creativity and innovation in design.
