Sherwin Williams’ 2026 Color of the Year Is ‘Universal Khaki’

“Universal Khaki” (SW 6150) is an “essential neutral” selected by Sherwin Williams’ color experts for its balance of livability and longevity. Far from a trendy, bright color, the Sherwin Williams team says it “embodies the satisfying simplicity at the core of contemporary comfort” and is “tailored and timeless.” It’s a color that pairs perfectly with the “quiet luxury” trend—the choice not to display wealth through lavish consumption or flashy status symbols, but rather to prioritize clean lines, neutral colors and luxe materials.

Universal Khaki on kitchen cabinets / Photo courtesy Sherwin Williams

Ashley Banbury, HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams’ color marketing manager, which also chose Universal Khaki as its color of the year, says that the color is also deeply soothing. “We’re in this world that’s full of stresses and we just want to come home and be comforted,” she explains. She recommends pairing the color with browns, whites, or yellow and red; because the color is so neutral, it can take some personality in the form of accents, making the “universal” part of its name ring true.