At New York Fashion Week, Spring/Summer 2026 isn’t about minimalism—it’s about standing out. The Pantone Colour Institute has unveiled the official shades of the season, and for men, they’re a masterclass in Impression Management: confident, expressive, and designed to be noticed.

Why These Colors Matter

With AI driving uniformity across the industry, designers are leaning into bold palettes as a rebellion. The SS26 spectrum isn’t random—it’s curated for men who want their wardrobes to project authority, creativity, and taste. Wearing the right color now is less about blending in and more about being unmistakably remembered.

The Power Shades to Know

• Burnt Sienna – earthy and commanding, spotted at Amiri, Saint Laurent, and Brioni. Perfect for tailoring and leather pieces.
• Dusty Rose – a muted pink with edge, used by Amiri and Louis Vuitton. Strong in shirting and lightweight knits.
• Acacia – a vibrant yellow-green, sharp enough to cut through neutrals. Think statement outerwear or a standout sneaker.
• Tea Rose – a richer rose with red undertones, seen at Dior and Willy Chavarria. Strong in suiting for men willing to push boundaries.
• Amaranth – a deep purple that signals luxury, favored by Ceeann and Robert Wun. Ideal for accessories or eveningwear.

Pantone also introduced versatile neutrals like Coffee Bean (dark brown) and Whyte Onyx (pale grey), giving men the anchors to balance out the bolder moves.

How to Wear It Now

Start with accessories—ties, pocket squares, sneakers—then graduate to statement jackets or full monochrome looks. Burnt Sienna and Coffee Bean pair seamlessly with denim, while Dusty Rose or Amaranth elevate summer suiting for men who want to stand out at events or the office.

The Bottom Line

Color is currency in 2026. The men who embrace these shades won’t just look stylish—they’ll look in control. And that’s what real power dressing is about.