Gen Z is rejecting millennial beige and embracing the colorful ‘dopamine decor’ trend. Designers say it’s a coping mechanism
Source: Fortune ·
Pinterest searches for the “gummy bears aesthetic” are up 50% as younger shoppers trade serene minimalism for squishy textures, saturated color, and rounded edges.
From the source
On Dec. 4, 2025, Pantone announced its Color of the Year for 2026: a shade of white called Cloud Dancer. It was the first time in the program’s history, which dates to 1999, that Pantone chose a white. The company described Cloud Dancer as “a billowy white imbued with serenity” and “a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.” It all sounds lovely. It’s also at odds with much of what has actually taken off in design, decor, and style this year. Pantone pitched its white as a way to “build atmospheres of serenity and spaciousness, providing a refuge of visual cleanliness.” Meanwhile, many Gen Zers and millennials are going maximalist in their homes and wardrobes. Rather than a billowy white, a large cadre of consumers want bold colors, plenty of texture, and lots of layers. This isn’t the first time maximalism has had a moment; 1970s style leaned that way, too. But today’s trend-conscious younger Americans are thinking beyond looks. They…