Universal Khaki: Sherwin-Williams’ 2026 Color of the Year Is a Grounded Neutral For the Future

In a world buzzing with endless trends and fleeting aesthetics, Sherwin-Williams is taking a step back, inviting us all to slow down, reset, and rediscover the beauty of simplicity.

For 2026, the iconic paint brand, in partnership with HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, has crowned Universal Khaki (SW 6150) as its Color of the Year, a warm, grounded neutral that embodies timeless elegance and everyday versatility.

Unlike louder, attention-grabbing shades of years past, Universal Khaki is about creating a foundation, literally and figuratively. It’s the color of a well-loved jacket, a perfectly worn-in canvas, or the soft earth beneath our feet.

With its gentle warmth and subtle depth, this shade reflects a collective desire for balance, connection, and authenticity in the spaces we call home.

“Khaki is more than just a neutral; it’s a timeless, go-anywhere shade that brings a sense of grounded elegance to any space,” says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams.

“Its earthy undertones allow it to play well with a wide range of palettes, from crisp whites to rich auburns, lush greens, and even buttery yellows. It’s the quiet hero that lets other colors shine while still holding its own with understated sophistication.”

Universal Khaki is more than a hue; it’s a reflection of a cultural shift. As consumers continue to embrace minimalism and intentional living, Sherwin-Williams’ choice feels like an answer to our collective craving for calm.

This soft, mid-tone neutral is part of Palette No. 4, Foundational Neutrals, from the brand’s Colormix® Forecast 2026, an anthology of shades that signal a move toward curated contrasts and thoughtful design.

For those looking to build a layered, welcoming look, Wadden recommends pairing Universal Khaki with complementary tones such as White Snow, Cream, and Sugar, or the earthy Special Walnut wood stain.

Rich accent colors like Henna Shade, Dark Auburn, and Tarragon offer opportunities to add personality while keeping the overall mood relaxed and restorative.

Honest Essentials: HGTV Home’s Curated Color Collection 2026

To further celebrate the 2026 Color of the Year, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams has introduced Honest Essentials, a 10-color collection anchored by Universal Khaki. Inspired by nature and designed for versatility, the collection blends calming neutrals with bold, earthy accents.

From the soft serenity of Creamy and Neutral Ground to the rich drama of Cordovan burgundy and Reddened Earth terracotta, Honest Essentials provides homeowners with a ready-made palette for creating spaces that feel warm, intentional, and effortlessly stylish.

Greens and blues, such as those found in Secret Garden and Still Water, bring a grounding, organic element, while a cheerful pop of Lemon Chiffon brightens the mix.

Ashley Banbury, Color Marketing Manager for HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, calls Honest Essentials “a reflection of consumer desire for clean lines, minimalist décor, and a more intentional approach to design and life.” In other words, it’s not just a set of colors; it’s a philosophy of living with purpose.

Universal Khaki’s appeal lies in its ability to feel both classic and current. It’s a color that doesn’t demand attention but rewards it, offering a warm backdrop for everything from modern minimalism to cozy traditional interiors.

Whether brushed across walls, paired with natural wood finishes, or layered with richer hues, this khaki delivers a subtle sophistication that never feels forced.

In choosing Universal Khaki as the 2026 Color of the Year, Sherwin-Williams reminds us that sometimes the most powerful design statement is one of quiet confidence. It’s an invitation to embrace the essential, to design with purpose, and to find beauty in the simple and enduring.