A new year calls for new colors of the year. While last year’s colors made some bold statements, this year’s mark a return to focusing on rest and relaxation. These colors are dreamy, gentle, timeless and grounding.
What’s dreamier than a cloud? This warm, off-white hue promises clarity and signifies a fresh start – perfect for the new year.
Pantone describes Cloud Dancer as “a lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.”
Sherwin-Williams – Universal Khaki
As the name implies, Sherwin-Williams’ color of the year is a neutral brown with a slight yellow undertone. It’s a warm, earthy shade, inspired by nature and offering a timeless style.
“Find strength in simplicity with Universal Khaki SW 6150, an essential neutral selected by our color experts for its beautiful balance of livability and longevity,” Sherwin-Williams says.
Another brown, Benjamin Moore’s choice for 2026 is a mix of burnt umber and charcoal – cool, neutral and graceful.
“Reminiscent of tailored suiting, this elegant color weaves rich espresso hues with refined notes of charcoal,” the company notes.
Bolder than many of the others this year, Behr’s Hidden Gem stands out as a cool jade green that’s both eye-catching and tranquil.
According to Behr, this color is “a smoky jade with an air of mystery and sophistication” that “exudes quiet confidence.”
Although Glidden also selected a bolder hue for the new year, Warm Mahogany still evokes similar calming, restorative feelings through its rich, grounded red shade.
“This year, return to what truly matters: rest, connection and creativity,” Glidden encourages. “We’re embracing hues that feel honest, personal and just a little dreamy.”
“Sometimes a color gives you a warm feeling inside,” Valspar says of their color of the year, Warm Eucalyptus, which is described as “naturally restorative and serene.”
This warm green is a grounding neutral that encourages people to slow down and appreciate the small moments. It’s a color that, according to Valspar, is “restful to the eye and restful to the soul.”
Speaking of nature, Krylon says their color of the year “creates a sense of calm and a lovely connection to nature,” bringing timeless luxury and modern sophistication.
This cool, dark brown is rich, earthy and understated, and Krylon credits it with inviting serenity into calming and contemplative sanctuaries.
Another brown rounds out the list of 2026’s colors of the year. Like many of the others, Minwax’s Special Walnut wood stain is a calming color that implores people to rest, relax and reflect.
“Inspired by the comfort of familiar spaces and the charm of reclaimed materials, Special Walnut helps you slow down, try something new and create with confidence,” Minwax states.
Feature photo credit: Pantone Media Kit
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