Pantone has said that the colour has been inspired in part by ‘little treat culture,’ which is a TikTok phenomenon that surrounds people treating themselves to a cafe-bought coffee and sweet treat. The name is also designed to activate your tastebuds. This warming, rich brown hue evokes the comforting qualities of chocolate and coffee, perfectly aligning with our collective craving for comfort and simplicity.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, commented, “For Pantone Color of the Year 2025, we look to a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and sensorial warmth extend further into our desire for comfort and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.” While “Mocha Mousse” might be synonymous with “delicious,” the shade was chosen for its evocativeness, implication of wonderful taste, multi-sensory appeal and versatility, Eiseman said. ”If you think of it in dried flowers and other very natural settings, it can appear to be very organic. But at the same time in fashion, the whole brown family has taken on this very elegant aspirational quality,” she said.

The Pantone Color of the Year program engages the design community and color enthusiasts, fostering a conversation around the relationship between color and culture. Each year, Pantone selects a color that encapsulates the global zeitgeist, reflecting the collective mood and aspirations.

In celebration of the 26th anniversary of Pantone Color of the Year, Pantone will, for the first time, highlight the color in events and experiences all over the world. From New York and London to Shanghai and Mumbai, Pantone will be sharing public spaces and color events that will make Pantone Color of the Year 2025 accessible for all. Pantone’s first stop on its international tour will be its official unveil partner—the London Eye. In a world-first for Pantone, the attraction will unveil Pantone Color of the Year 2025 by lighting up the London skyline in Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse.

Image used for illustrative purposes only

In the realm of hair and beauty, Mocha Mousse is versatile, suiting a variety of individual skin tones and undertones. This soft brown shade works well in both matte and sheen applications, making it an excellent base for metallic gloss finishes. Pantone also announced collaborations with both Ipsy and Pura for Color of the Year 2025.

As we move into 2025, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse is set to inspire designs and trends, nurturing our senses and answering our deep-seated need for comfort and connection.