The Color of the Year has everyone raising eyebrows.
Travel back to the days of asking someone “What’s your favorite color?” The answer is entirely subjective—with infinite options. So, naturally, Pantone’s Color of the Year pick is rarely to everyone’s taste. But this year, the selected tone has been deemed downright tone-deaf.
Cloud Dancer—a shade of white with the tiniest hint of yellow—sparked discourse among color enthusiasts dissatisfied with the selection amid ongoing political dialogue surrounding race and the rollback of DEI programs. Some say it also signals wealth and elitism, noting that other years boasting true neutrals—Sand Dollar in 2006 and Ultimate Gray in 2021—arrived in similarly fraught political moments.
Despite the in-depth theories—and some even going so far as to propose an entirely different deep green hue—Pantone attempted to shut down the chatter immediately.
“The global team at the Pantone Color Institute selected this color for its emotional and creative resonance, not as a statement on politics, ideology or race,” the brand said in a statement. “Pantone does not assign political narratives to color; to select or avoid a hue on that basis would give such narratives a significance they do not hold in this process.”
Others argue Cloud Dancer is simply a dull pick for a year that could use bold color and brighter energy—and not “the exact shade of a white shirt after 20 washes.” And if that sentiment sounds familiar, it’s because the internet said the same thing about 2025’s Mocha Mousse. The only thing every Pantone pick has in common? Someone will always be displeased—and vocal—about it.
Like sun-kissed cheeks after that first glass of rosé, Pantone Color of the Year Peach Fuzzat once radiates tender and timeless. “Subtly sensual,” the velvety soft pinkish-orange shade feels like a gentle hug in cozy season while emanating a soft sunny vibe that ushers in warmth year-round. “The heartfelt peach hue brings a feeling of kindness and tenderness, communicating a message of caring and sharing, community and collaboration,” said Pantone Color Institute Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman of the perennial pick that likewise leans into our collective urge for stillness and sanctuary. “An idea as much as a feeling,” the calming tone is pure poetry—a call to the senses that enlivens the mind, body and soul with its vintage-meets-modern vibe. It’s giving “I got my peaches out in Georgia—oh, yeah,” and Biebs would be so proud.
That Fuzzy Feeling
We tapped a trio of local designers for riffs on getting that warm fuzzy feeling of Pantone Color of the Year Peach Fuzz so you can give peace—ahem, peach—a chance.
“Farrow and Ball’s Faded Terracotta is my favorite peach shade. Peaches can be hard sometimes because you don’t want them to be too pink, too red or too orange—it has to be that perfect combo. I think peach can make a room not only feel lively, but it has a calming and grounding effect with its warm undertones. Peach also can be used with so many colors, and one of my favorite combinations is peach with a warm turquoise/green. If you’re looking for a calmer palette, peach looks amazing with grays and browns. This particular shade from Farrow and Ball really makes a statement with a dark red or calming blueish gray—there are so many different moods you can create with peach color pairings.” ▪Grey Joyner, Grey Joyner Interiors, greyjoyner.com
“A charming color that brings a touch of history and sophistication to your space, this warm orange-pink hue is typical of 19th century interiors, adding a timeless elegance to your home. Paired with muted grays, soft creams and tonal browns, Ointment Pink creates a harmonious and balanced palette that feels like a comforting embrace. We love this color paired with the natural patina of aged brass, whether it’s through picture frames, lighting or mirrors.” ▪Orshi Wren, Astral House Mindful Interior Design, theastralhouse.com
“Fresh Peach is a color that embodies a subtle blend of soft pinks and warm oranges. It imparts a warm and inviting atmosphere, bringing a touch of warmth and elegance to any space. I prefer to use this color only as a light accent—[like] on accent pillows in a children’s room.” ▪Tula Summerford, Design by Tula, designbytula.com
“Embracing Apéro Lime Paint’s playful and punchy peach shade, you’ll discover yourself captivated by the transformative power of this color. The velvety matte finish of limewash not only provides a rich aesthetic, but also delivers a natural and nontoxic paint, ensuring a healthy and sustainable choice. Apéro’s lively hue acts as an inviting canvas—especially suitable for plant enthusiasts—contrasting the matte walls with glossy green leaves and introducing an old-world charm traditional paint can’t replicate.”
