Pantone has named an “evocative soft brown” its color of the year for 2025, continuing a tradition that has now run for more than a quarter of a century. In a statement published Thursday, the global color specialist said Mocha Mousse was “a mellow brown infused with a sensorial and comforting warmth.”

2025 marks the 26th anniversary of the Pantone Color of the Year. To honor the milestone, Pantone will host global events and experiences, bringing the Color of the Year 2025 to public spaces around the world, it said in a statement.

The announcement of Mocha Mousse as 2025's defining shade marks a significant shift in the cultural zeitgeist.

The Pantone Color Institute has announced its Color of the Year 2025 to the design community: the soft brown Mocha Mousse.

Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, is a comforting and versatile shade. This season, style it with classic neutrals like cream and white for a chic, minimalist look. Pair a mocha coat with black jeans and boots for a sophisticated winter ensemble.