Written by Arbitrage • 2024-12-13 00:00:00
Pantone has chosen Mocha Mousse as its 2025 Color of the Year. Pantone describes this color as "a warming, brown hue imbued with richness [that] nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort." Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, said that Mocha Mousse is "sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic," with "thoughtful indulgence." Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, added, "We look to a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and sensorial and comforting warmth extends further into our desire for comfort, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others."
Why does Pantone select a Color of the Year? Pantone's website states, "The Pantone Color of the Year program engages the design community and color enthusiasts in a conversation around color, highlighting the relationship between color and culture." Pantone has selected a color each of the last 25 years. (The first color was Cerulean Blue, chosen in 1999.) To make their pick, experts at the Pantone Color Institute trawl through high-fashion runways, interior design trends, pop culture moments, and human psychology.
Baton Rouge interior designer Ashley Hawthorne is not surprised by this year's color choice. "This reinforces the trend we have seen for a couple of years," she said, "which would be the move away from cool neutrals such as bright white and gray, to warm richer neutrals like tan, taupe and brown." Cristin Kennedy of Blackbird Interiors added, "We have seen much richer colors and textures in recent years. The days of homes with all white walls and fully open concepts are coming to a close."Â
Dover, New Hampshire design pro Christina Woody Van Blake added her thoughts on Mocha Mousse: "I think Mocha Mousse is safe and natural... It leans towards the moody art deco tones I've been noticing in a non-committal way. So it's a solid trendy choice for some clients that want to be on trend by dipping their toe and not jumping in head first!"
How can you incorporate Mocha Mousse in your home interior design? "I suggest using Mocha Mousse in any space where you want to feel relaxed and at ease," suggested color expert Amy Wax, describing it as an embracing color that feels personal. Scottsdale-based designer Tanya Shively praised the color's versatility in her comment: "It pairs effortlessly with everything from soft blues to deep navy, creating palettes that are serene yet dynamic. And for a moodier, more dramatic look, combining it with dark greys or charcoals adds a level of sophistication that's timeless."
This warm, luxe shade is a response to the current cultural emphasis on "everyday pleasures" and thoughtful design, making it both aspirational and approachable for designers and homeowners alike. Be on the lookout for Mocha Mousse Madness in home decor, fashion, and multiple brand collaborations throughout the coming year!