Who choosesthe Color of the Year?

The Color of the Year is “Cloud Dancer,” described as a soft, neutral off-white shade, airy and light, chosen by the Pantone Color Institute. It is designed to evoke a sense of calm, clarity, and simplicity, and is used as a base or background in design, fashion, and interiors.

As we look at Pantone’s Color of the Year being literally white for the first time, the question arises who actually chooses the color that “defines” the year?

Every year, the design and marketing world eagerly awaits what seems like a simple decision the selection of the Pantone Color of the Year. While it may seem at first glance like an aesthetic choice or a trend that “comes out of nowhere,” this decision is the result of a serious, long-term, and strategic process.

The choice is made by the Pantone Color Institute, a team of experts dedicated to researching colors and predicting global trends. The team consists of designers, analysts, and creatives who track changes across industries all year long from fashion and art to technology, economics, and social developments.

The selection process doesn’t happen overnight, it’s based on continuous observation of the world around us. The team analyzes fashion runways, films, social media, new products, and even political and economic circumstances. All of this helps them understand the bigger picture the global “mood” and what people are feeling, wanting, or needing at that moment.

For this reason, the Pantone Color of the Year is not just a visual trend, but a reflection of the time we live in. During uncertain periods, calmer, more neutral shades tend to dominate, while brighter and more energetic colors emerge in more optimistic times. In other words, the choice is guided not only by aesthetics but also by symbolism.

After months of research, the team meets to narrow down the options through discussion and analysis. They consider how relevant a color is, how applicable it is across different industries, and whether it has the potential to be “translated” through fashion, design, marketing, and everyday life.

Once the final decision is made, the color is presented globally, along with a clear explanation of why it was chosen and what it symbolizes. This narrative is as important as the color itself, as it provides context and shapes how it will be used.

The influence of the Pantone Color of the Year is significant. It often sets the direction for brand visual identities, fashion collections, product design, and even interiors. While it is not a rule that must be followed, it serves as a strong guide for the creative industry.

Ultimately, it might be simplest to say that Pantone doesn’t just choose a color, they attempt to capture the spirit of the times and translate it into a visual language that everyone can understand.