Paint companies such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore announce their “Color of the Year” picks in fall or winter of each year, leading into the New Year. Maybe it’s just me but seems like the announcements come out earlier every year. Keen competition and marketing strategy, for sure! Sherwin-Williams has already revealed its selection for 2026 and it’s lovely. “Universal Khaki” may have a practical and utilitarian sounding name, but it’s a beautiful, warm neutral that can be applied to many interior settings. It’s dark enough to add true color, contrast nicely with off-white or cream millwork and trim, and make a statement. Yet, it’s light enough to provide an easy-going background color that can last for years, plus support a wide range of accent colors.
Applications for Universal Khaki. Photo courtesy of Sherwin-Williams
Per Sherwin-Williams’ Director of Color Marketing and Trendsight Team Leader, Sue Wadden “Universal Khaki is the easygoing neutral that makes every room feel pulled together. Its warm, earthy tone works with natural finishes, crisp whites or bold pops of color – bringing timeless style to your home.” Sherwin-Williams has created a beautiful color palette with accent colors that complement Universal Khaki. Really nice!
Universal Khaki and coordinating accent colors. Photo courtesy of Sherwin-Williams
“Universal Khaki” also signals a shift away from grays that have dominated the color scene for years. For the past ten years or so, gray has been everywhere, from paint colors to cabinets, tile and countertop materials, and textiles and rugs. Perhaps beige is back! I’ve always been a fan of warm neutral colors and even during the gray craze, I’ve specified beiges and tans plenty of times. It really depends on what clients like and prefer, and I’m a well-versed guide for the color selection process for design projects.
I’m sure I’ll be blogging about Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year soon!
Blog title/feature photo and all photos courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.