How To Embrace And Style Pantone’s Color Of The Year: Mocha Mousse

Pantone has unveiled its eagerly anticipated Color of the Year for 2025: Mocha Mousse 17-1230. This warm hue offers the mood of connection, comfort, and harmony. In this post, I share how to embrace and style Pantone’s color of the year. From home design and decor to incorporating the warm hue into your wardrobe. Below you will find ways to incorporate this warm shade of brown to offer you a sense of comfort and harmony.

Introducing the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse

Mocha Mousse is the first shade of brown chosen as Pantone’s Color of the Year in its 25-year history. The evocative soft brown color offers a sense of deliciousness to the senses. The natural warmth trend of the mocha mousse reminds me of rich chocolate or cacao.

In the world of color, Laurie Pressman from Pantone studies trends in fashion, design, travel technology, the art world and entertainment to select it’s Color of the Year. Pressman suggests that this rich brown hue has a delectable quality that transports our senses into the feeling of pleasure and harmony. This earthy color helps reduce anxiety and encourages relaxation.

How Does Pantone Color Institute Pick Their Color of the Year?

Pantone® is all about color—it’s what they do best! They’ve created a universal system that helps brands and manufacturers make big decisions about colors. Their Pantone Color Institute is a team of experts who predict color trends and give advice on how to use color in branding and products.

Every year, their global team of color pros comes together to pick the Pantone Color of the Year. These experts come from all over the world and have backgrounds in design, culture, and geography. They look at so many things for inspiration: movies and TV shows in the works, art exhibits, up-and-coming artists, and the latest fashion trends. They also consider dream travel spots, new lifestyles and hobbies, and even what’s happening in the world—like economic shifts and social values.

But that’s not all. The team at Pantone pay attention to new tech, innovative materials, and cool effects that change how we see color. They also look at what’s trending on social media and big global events, like major sports competitions, that get everyone talking.

“The Pantone Color of the Year is more than just a color—it’s a vibe,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It’s a color that connects with people’s moods and attitudes, reflecting what we’re all looking for and need in our lives.” Pretty cool, right? It’s amazing how much thought goes into picking a single color that can shape trends and inspire creativity around the world!

How To Embrace and Style The Rich Brown Hue Of Mocha Mousse?

The Pantone Color of the Year is a vibe, and there are so many fun ways to make it a part of your world! Whether you want a bold makeover or just a little pop of this trending hue, here’s how to sprinkle it into your lifestyle with ease:

1. Add The Chocolate Hue To Your Wardrobe

The color of the year complements blues, greens, grays, pinks and my favorite cream. Add a cute brown scarf, a cozy sweater, or a fun pair of sneakers. Not ready for a big statement? Accessories like earrings, a chic bag, or even a playful scrunchie are the perfect way to dip your toes into the trend.

Effortless Ways to Style Mocha Mousse

• Statement Pieces: Choose trench coats, blazers, or dresses in mocha mousse for standout looks.
• Basics: Incorporate turtlenecks, camisoles, or wide-leg trousers in this versatile hue.
• Accessories: Elevate outfits with mocha mousse bags, shoes, or scarves.
• Patterns: Look for prints that mix mocha mousse with cream, camel, or burgundy.
• Pairing Colors: Pair with neutrals for a tonal look or contrast with mustard, green, or navy.
• Textures: Experiment with knits, silks, or suede for seasonal flair.

2. Style Your Home With This Earthy Color

Home is where the color magic happens! Toss in some throw pillows, a soft blanket, or a vase in this year’s hue. Feeling adventurous? Try painting an accent wall or picking out a standout piece of furniture to give your space a whole new energy.

Perfectly complementing the top furniture and design trends of 2025, Mocha Mousse invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and explore your curiosity with patience.

How to Incorporate an Earthy Mocha Mousse Into Your Home

A. Apply The Color Palette

• Walls: Opt for mocha, taupe, or soft latte tones. These hues add warmth without overwhelming. Use an accent wall or keep it subtle with trims.
• Textiles: Choose earthy tones for curtains, cushions, or throws. Think chocolate brown, warm beige, or muted cocoa with hints of cream for contrast.

B. Furniture

• Wood Elements: Look for furniture in walnut or espresso finishes to ground the space.
• Upholstery: Velvet or soft microfiber in deep mocha adds a luxe, inviting touch to sofas and armchairs.

C. Textures and Layers

• Pair smooth mocha tones with natural materials like jute rugs, woven baskets, or linen curtains for an earthy balance.
• Add plush throws or faux-fur pillows in complementary tones for a cozy, mousse-like softness.

D. Accents and Décor

• Use mocha-colored ceramics or pottery to tie the theme together on shelves or tables.
• Introduce copper or bronze elements through lamps, frames, or hardware for a touch of earthy glam.

E. Lighting

• Choose warm, ambient lighting with soft, golden hues. Layer with floor lamps or candles for a snug, inviting atmosphere.

F. Greenery

• Earth tones pair beautifully with lush greenery. Use potted plants like ferns, rubber plants, or monstera for a fresh contrast.

Mocha Mousse pairs well with the colors below from this image provided by Pantone’s Color Of The Year. I love the colors blended together.

Its versatile warmth makes it an ideal choice for creating spaces that feel both stylish and welcoming.Mocha Mousse can be used as a soothing foundation color for home decor. It pairs well with textured furniture upholstery and rich leather materials.

Lighter wood furniture complements beautifully with Mocha Mousse. See below for ideas.

3. How To Use Mocha Mousse In Your Beauty Routine

The Color of the Year works wonders in your beauty routine. Think bold nail polish, a trendy lip shade, or even a swipe of eyeshadow for a fun, fresh look. It’s a playful way to try something new without a big commitment.

Sultry Eyes

Brown eyeshadow is the ultimate multitasker. Go for soft, shimmery taupes during the day, or layer on deeper shades like bronze or mahogany for a smoky eye look at night. Don’t forget to smudge a dark brown eyeliner for a softer take on classic black.

Bronzed Glow

Bring some warmth to your complexion with a beautiful bronzer. Sweep it over your cheeks, forehead, and nose for that “just came back from vacation” glow. Bonus: it doubles as a quick eyeshadow when you’re in a hurry.

Full, Fluffy Brows

If you’re all about the brows (who isn’t?), a soft brown pencil or powder can help define and fill them in for a natural, polished look. Match the shade to your hair color or go one tone lighter for a soft, flattering effect.

5. Styling Your Tech and Travel Gadgets With Mocha Mousse

Upgrade your gadgets with a phone case, smartwatch band, or laptop sleeve in the Color of the Year. It’s a simple way to keep the trend at your fingertips (literally).

Let Mocha Mousse Color Inspire Your Mood

Colors set the tone, and the Color of the Year is all about capturing the feeling we’re craving. Whether it’s calm, energetic, or hopeful, let it inspire your mindset. Pin it to your vision board or keep it around as a little reminder to embrace the vibe.

See? You don’t have to be a designer to have fun with the Color of the Year. From tiny touches to big changes, it’s all about making it your own!