For over two decades, Pantone’s annual ‘Color of the Year’ announcement has captivated the design world, reflecting cultural trends and sparking creativity across various industries. This year’s choice continues that tradition and Mocha Mousse (17-1230), a luxurious chocolatey brown that exudes warmth, sophistication, and connection to nature, has been chosen THE color for 2025.
In their official statement, the color specialist said Mocha Mousse was, “a mellow brown infused with a sensorial and comforting warmth.” It added, “A warming rich brown hue, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse nurtures with its suggestion of the delectable quality of cacao, chocolate, and coffee, appealing to our desire for comfort.”
Representative purposes, for exact shade please refer to the official website of Pantone
Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, described the color as one that evokes “thoughtful indulgence.” She stated that Mocha Mousse transforms the world’s perception of browns from being simple and grounded into something more aspirational and luxurious, characterizing it as “sophisticated and lush” while retaining an unpretentious, timeless appeal.
Further, the color is also deeply associated with nature and aligns with the current trend. The brand explained that PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse is a color that honors the current movement to align ourselves with nature more closely. It “embraces the sustenance of our physical environment.”
Representative purposes, for exact shade please refer to the official website of Pantone
Every December, Pantone reveals its Color of the Year for the upcoming year, marking 26 years of this influential tradition. Experts at the Pantone Color Institute analyze cultural influences, including fashion, interior design, psychology, and pop culture, to declare their selection. Mocha Mousse is among one of more than nearly 25,000 hues in the Pantone Color Institute’s various libraries and formula guides.
Pantone is showcasing its Color of the Year globally for the first time, with events planned in cities like New York, Mumbai, Shanghai, and London. The unveiling began in partnership with the London Eye, which was illuminated in the chosen shade and will remain lit throughout the night, setting the tone for a worldwide celebration.
The series began in 1999 with Sky Blue as the inaugural choice. Recent picks include Viva Magenta in 2023, celebrated as “an unconventional shade for unconventional times,” and Peach Fuzz in 2024, described as evoking “peace and serenity.”
