Sherwin-Williams and Valspar announce upcoming color trends

Major paint brands have announced their color trends and selections for upcoming years, signaling a shift toward warmer and more personalized palettes.

Sherwin-Williams has named Universal Khaki as its 2026 Color of the Year. Described as a warm, earthy mid-tone neutral, the color is intended to be timeless rather than trendy. Recommended schemes for 2026 emphasize three-color combinations, such as pairing Universal Khaki with Alabaster trim and Iron Ore accents to provide architectural definition without harsh contrast.

Looking further ahead to 2027, Valspar has selected Cottage Door as its Color of the Year. This mid-tone blue is positioned as a ‘colorful neutral’ that balances warm and cool undertones. The shade is designed to support a sense of comfort and authenticity, pairing with warm gray and muted creamy pink to create inviting, lived-in spaces.