Pantone’s colour for 2026 is Cloud Dancer, a billowy white that closely resembles one of the most popular manicure colours. Editor Trudi Brewer highlights the ‘now’ nail lengths and how this shade will benefit your summer style.
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When Pantone announced their new colour of the year, ‘Cloud Dancer’, our style director, Louise Hilsz, was less than impressed. “A lofty white neutral whose aerated presence acts as a whisper of calm and peace in a noisy world,” Pantone posted on Instagram. They added: “It symbolises a calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.” While it’s not inspiring when it comes to interior inspiration, perhaps the Pantone team chose that neutral hue as a “blank slate”, the colour of peace, and a refresh for the new year, back to this shade for mani inspiration. This milky hue suits any nail length or shape and can make your hands look tanned and more youthful. So here are the Cloud Dancer-look-alike polishes to wear this summer.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish Get Mod, $18
Mid-Length Almond
This mid-length, almond-shaped nail elongates your fingers and is ideal for those who love a clean, minimalist look. Painted in sheer white, this manicure is perfect for lasting through the holiday season and pairs well with any beach style.
Long Stiletto
If you like length, long stiletto nails are both elegant and bang-on-trend. They are made for intricate nail art, with pops of colour. But just as glamorous and statement-making in a sheer neutral white, think tasteful and oh-so-flattering.
Short Oval
If you like to wear your nails short, you are in good company. First, this is one of the most popular nail shapes because it makes your fingers look longer and slimmer, and it’s low-maintenance. Less prone to snagging or breaking, once painted, in this cloudy colour with extra shine, it’s simple but perfect.
Short and square
Dressing short nails in a cloudy pearl, chrome, or shimmer finish adds a touch of festive sparkle on a nail shape that is both chic and practical. An upgrade on neutral white, this nail shape with straight edges balances out longer fingers and makes them look elegant rather than overly long.
French Polish
It’s been around since 1975, thanks to nail brand Orly, and while the French claimed this look, it was actually a nail fashion trend born in Hollywood. This natural style, adopted by brides worldwide, suits any nail shape or length, for any occasion. The best news is that, with practice, it’s a look you can perfect at home.
Discover the best milky manis here.