Cool blue could dethrone Pantone’s Color of the Year

Pinterest Predicts, the annual trend forecast, is based on real data, as it analyzes billions of searches, saves (“pins”), and user interactions, using advanced analytics to identify the trends that have genuine potential to shape the direction of the coming year. Their analysis outlines which themes, aesthetics, colors, concepts, and habits are expected, according to their predictions, to emerge and grow over the next year. Their forecasts are highly reliable, as the trends they identify often become significant across all sectors, from fashion and beauty to interior design and gastronomy. Among them is a trending shade so refined and elegant that it will send a chill down your spine.

Related: 7 dress styles that will dominate trends in 2026

Straight from the glaciers

Cool blue, or icy blue, is, according to Pinterest’s analysis, the cool shade of 2026, and if Pantone has chosen the dreamy Cloud Dancer for 2026, then icy blue is its cool, eclectic sister. This light, almost pastel blue shade, flirting with Nordic minimalism and the beauty of glaciers, is taking over global searches, with a 35 percent increase in searches for “glacier aesthetic,” a 55 percent rise in blue drink aesthetics, the same increase for icy blue wedding dresses, and a 150 percent surge for “frosted makeup.” Cold has never been so cool.

Photo: color-hex.com

Gucci, Spring 2026, Courtesy of Gucci

Related: The Pantone 2026 shade is here and these are the home pieces I am choosing

Blue has long been known to reduce stress and blood pressure. Today, pastel shades of blue communicate calm, slowness, and introspection, so with the rise of the wellness and self-care industry, it comes as no surprise that Cool Blue will be the next it shade, one that, unlike classic navy or bold cobalt blue, feels sophisticated, minimalist, and futuristic. Beyond cocktails, this on-trend shade will color the lace of glamorous brides this year, bring cool confidence to the eyes of beauty enthusiasts, and flutter across the chicest dresses.

The icy beauty

Pull out your pastel blue tones, pearlescent cream eyeshadows, and shimmering highlighters that sparkle like freshly fallen snow, because this year we are radiating the cool confidence of snow queens. Whether you gravitate toward softer pastel shades in the spirit of slumbering frozen beauties, glamorous glitters that revive the spirit of disco divas, or bold, eccentric, funky makeup looks, every beauty enthusiast will find their own icy inspiration.

 

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From icy blue runways into spring

Runways have also announced the icy blue shade in their pre-fall and spring 2026 collections, with almost every show featuring at least one look in this frosty hue. The reason we are especially drawn to this shade is its versatility. If this season you prefer to flirt with the past in dreamy, sensual dresses, look to Altuzarra’s slip dress or the resort fairytale of Erdem for inspiration. Sexier and more elegant silhouettes were offered by Acne Studios, Valentino, and Coperni.

In addition to dresses, we also spotted this bold icy shade on tailored suits, statement coats, and blouses. Until temperatures rise, and even after, we will be wearing cool blue this year in monochromatic looks or pairing it with other pastel and contrasting shades.