Pantone, the world-renowned authority on color and provider of professional color standards, has unveiled PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse as the Color of the Year 2025. This soft, evocative shade of brown promises to capture the essence of indulgence, harmony, and a connection to the natural world. With its warming undertones and rich hues, Mocha Mousse resonates deeply with our senses, conjuring feelings of comfort, sophistication, and grounded elegance.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, describes this year’s selection as embodying “thoughtful indulgence.” According to Eiseman, Mocha Mousse is more than just a color; it is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures, such as the decadent richness of chocolate, the allure of coffee, and the timeless appeal of cacao. She highlights how the color brings together a refined sense of sophistication with an unpretentious warmth, making it a classic yet aspirational choice for our modern world.

“PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse nurtures our senses and extends our perception of brown tones,” says Eiseman. “It redefines brown as not merely grounded and humble but luxurious and aspirational. With its earthy refinement, it introduces a discreet touch of glamour, enveloping us with sensorial warmth that reflects our desire for comfort and indulgence.”

A Natural Alignment

Mocha Mousse’s popularity is poised to align with a broader cultural trend: a growing desire to reconnect with the natural world. As Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, explains, this shade is imbued with authenticity and is deeply tied to notions of balance and harmony. Pressman observes that the colour reflects a collective yearning for unity, whether in our relationships, work, or connection to the environment.

“Harmony influences every aspect of our lives,” Pressman shares. “It evokes feelings of inner peace, calm, and balance while fostering a sense of connection with the world around us. PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse symbolizes this pursuit of harmony, extending the comforting feelings introduced by PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz in 2024 to a new level of indulgence and warmth. It reminds us of the joy of simple pleasures and the value of sharing these experiences with others.”

Celebrating 26 Years of Color Innovation

To mark the 26th anniversary of the Color of the Year tradition, Pantone plans to bring Mocha Mousse to life through global events and experiences. From vibrant public installations in New York and London to immersive celebrations in Shanghai and Mumbai, Pantone aims to make its 2025 Color of the Year a universally accessible phenomenon. These events will allow individuals to engage with the shade in dynamic and interactive ways, bringing to the forefront its connection to comfort, connection, and artistry.

A Shade for the Future

PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse captures a moment in time when individuals are seeking greater alignment between their inner worlds and the external environment. The color’s richness speaks to a heightened appreciation for everyday luxuries, while its grounding tones offer a soothing reminder of the timeless beauty in nature. Whether through fashion, home design, or global celebrations, Mocha Mousse is poised to be a defining element of 2025.