Let’s talk about The Pantone Color of the Year. What started as a quirky creative exercise 25 years ago has grown into a global phenomenon. It sparks endless conversations among designers, decorators, fashionistas, and color enthusiasts everywhere. The idea? Simple yet genius: pick a color that reflects the cultural, emotional, and social vibes of the moment. Think of it as a snapshot of the world’s mood in a shade.

And the winner is…

As someone who loves color, I look forward to this announcement every year. This time, I even tuned in for the countdown on Pantone’s website. And when the Pantone 2025 Color of the Year was unveiled as PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, I had to do a double take.

Mocha Mousse? The color of the year is…brown?

Yep. Brown. But not just any brown. According to Pantone, Mocha Mousse is “a warming, brown hue imbued with richness.” It’s cozy, indulgent, and comforting—like a warm mug of cocoa or a morning latte. Okay, I can get on board with that. And honestly, who couldn’t use a little more comfort right now?

“Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence. Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, it extends our perceptions of brown from being humble and grounded to aspirational and luxe.”

– Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

“For Pantone Color of the Year 2025, we look to a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and comforting warmth reflects our growing desire for simple pleasures we can gift and share with others.”

– Laurie Pressman, Vice President, Pantone Color Institute

It’s hard not to admire how beautifully they frame the “why” behind their color selection. They’ve turned brown—yes, brown—into something aspirational. But it’s more than just the words; it’s about understanding the emotional resonance of color and how it shapes our collective experiences.

From Mocha Mousse to Marketing Genius

Let’s pause to appreciate what Pantone has done here. They didn’t invent color or trends, but they’ve made themselves the authority on the subject. The Color of the Year isn’t just a pick—it’s an invitation to connect, reflect, and spark conversations. Whether you’re a designer or someone who just really loves a good paint swatch, it’s a chance to join the dialogue.

At our office, the buzz around Mocha Mousse got us thinking: where do we see this color in our lives? Turns out, everywhere.

Here’s what the team had to say:

Heather: “I like brown. But I don’t really like mousse. It’s a texture issue I think. Now give me a tray of warm gingerbread cookies fresh from the oven and we’re in business.”

Taleen: “My morning coffee. It’s the comforting kick-start I need every day. Mocha-chocolatey.”

Alison: “It’s outdoorsy—like woods, trees, and a hint of holiday coziness.”

Josh: “Benny, my snack-sized pup! He’s sweet and full of personality—just like Mocha Mousse.”

Jason: “It’s the Utah landscape in winter—subtle, rich, and grounding.”

Lisa: “To me, it’s all about comfort and connection. I love making my son chocolate-peanut butter smoothies, topped with whipped cream and a chocolate syrup heart. It’s like a hug in a glass!”

Justin: “These guitars that take me to my happy place. I might lack musical talent, but I more than make up for it in gear.”

Heidi: “Mocha Mousse reminds me of my quails that I care for, they are all so sweet and brighten my day. I love to see how each of them has their own personality and light.”

Vanna: “I love eye shadows, and mocha tones are some of my favorites. Buying eye shadow from MAC is one of my indulgences, and I have way more than any one pair of eyes will ever need! Talk about a ‘me moment.”

Evan: “There’s nothing like the southern Utah slot canyons to really capture the vibe of Mocha Mousse. Warm and mysterious, rich yet warm.”

Anonymous: “Is it just me, or does this scream Kardashian SKIMS ad?”

Finding Mocha Mousse Magic in Your World

You don’t have to love Mocha Mousse to appreciate its vibe. It’s elusive yet familiar, sweet but not cloying. So, where do you see Mocha Mousse in your everyday life? Snap a pic, share a story, or just enjoy the warm, grounding vibes this color brings.

One thing’s for sure: this rich, cozy shade is here to remind us to savor the little comforts—and maybe indulge just a little. Cheers to the year of Mocha Mousse!