Sherwin-Williams’s 2026 Color Of The Year Spotlights A Classic

Starting off 2026 with a fresh slate, Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams team up for the first time to unveil the Sherwin-Williams’s 2026 Color of the Year: Universal Khaki. An earthy and timeless mid-tone tan with a slight yellow undertone, the color channels a return to fundamentals—revealing a new era of functionality and practicality.

“Khaki is more than just a neutral—it’s a timeless, go-anywhere shade that brings a sense of grounded elegance to any space,” shares Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “With its warm, earthy undertones, Universal Khaki SW 6150 effortlessly complements a wide range of colors, creating a rich, inviting backdrop that can transform an entire design with quiet confidence.”

Sherwin-Williams’s 2026 Color of the Year Reflects A New Era

Due to its understated elegance and everyday versatility, Universal Khaki is a restorative neutral for thoughtful spaces, encouraging users to slow down, reset, and design with purpose. Like a blank canvas or a well-worn jacket, Universal Khaki is extremely versatile for any space—whether it’s serving as a beautiful backdrop to a pop of color in the dining room or giving the living room a touch of sophisticated simplicity.

Balanced and confident, Universal Khaki pairs well with other shades from Sherwin-Williams’s Colormix Forecast 2026, Anthology: Volume Two, which consists of shades that also reflect the shift to a future of curated contrast and complexity. Meanwhile, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams just launched its Honest Essentials 2026 color collection, anchored by Universal Khaki and featuring 10 thoughtfully curated hues that draw inspiration from nature, offering a sense of grounding and ease.

“The Honest Essentials collection is a reflection of consumer desire for clean lines, minimalist decor and a more intentional approach to design and life,” says Ashley Banbury, color marketing manager of HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. “Honest Essentials represents a new era where purpose and simplicity are the ultimate luxuries.” Cheers to that.

Universal Khaki Encourages a More Intentional Approach to Design