The announcement of Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, has sparked considerable discussion among design enthusiasts and the general public alike. This shade, identified as PANTONE 11-4201, is being described as a versatile white, a choice some critics deem uninspired. Pantone argues that Cloud Dancer serves as a foundational color, allowing other hues to shine while providing a sense of airy lightness across various applications.
While Pantone emphasizes the adaptability of Cloud Dancer, many Austin residents are questioning the selection and its relevance to local trends. As the city continues to evolve in its aesthetic preferences, here are eight places where this controversial color can be seen or experienced in Austin.
1. Minimalist Mugs and Local Brands
For those looking to incorporate Cloud Dancer into their daily lives, options are available from local retailers. A simple white mug from Pantone retails for around $30, but consumers can find similar alternatives at H-E-B for less than $4. Austin-based cookware company Made In offers a set of four Cloud Dancer mugs for $40, with additional color options for those seeking more character.
2. Real Estate Trends Post-Pandemic
The Austin housing market, particularly notable for its white multistory townhouses, reflects the city’s architectural choices. Reports indicate that a third of homes purchased during the pandemic are now at risk of selling at a loss, marking this as the highest rate among major metropolitan areas. As the market stabilizes, homeowners who embraced the Cloud Dancer aesthetic may find themselves reassessing their investments.
3. Coffee Culture and Alternative Milks
Austinites have a well-deserved reputation for their love of alternative milks. Desnudo, a popular coffee shop, offers oat milk options at no extra charge. Their charming blue-and-white coffee trailers have become a local fixture, making them a perfect spot to experience Cloud Dancer in a delicious beverage.
4. Giving Back with HAAM
Those interested in supporting the community can make donations to the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) in honor of friends or family. Donors will receive a receipt printed on Cloud Dancer paper, combining a trendy color with a meaningful contribution to local artists.
5. Artisan Flour from Barton Springs Mill
Barton Springs Mill offers a premium all-purpose flour that is stone-milled to a superfine texture, giving it a Cloud Dancer-like appearance. This flour is free from bleaching agents, making it an ideal choice for baking delicious holiday treats that will impress friends and family.
6. Driverless Technology in Austin
Waymo’s driverless vehicles have become a familiar sight in Austin, their neutral white color embodying the city’s mixed feelings about technological advancements. Recent controversies include incidents where Waymo cars allegedly passed school buses illegally, prompting scrutiny from local authorities.
7. Specialty Groceries and Farewell Sales
As Hana World prepares to close its doors on December 15, 2023, shoppers can still pick up Cloud Dancer-colored monosodium glutamate granules, adding umami flavor to their culinary creations. The owners have stated that proceeds from final sales will support their staff during the holiday season.
8. Aromatherapy and Calming Influences
For those seeking tranquility, Parker + Scott offers candles designed to foster a calming atmosphere. Their aptly named “Smells Like Five Minutes of Peace” candle blends scents like cactus flower and jade amber, providing an aromatic escape that contrasts with the overwhelming pace of modern life.
As Austin grapples with the implications of Pantone’s Cloud Dancer, it remains to be seen how this color will influence local design trends. While some may view it as a lackluster choice, others may embrace its potential for versatility and personal expression across various facets of life.
