Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s Color of the Year, is already making its way into wardrobes—and for good reason. This earthy, soft brown is cozy, calming, and full of versatility.

I know people have mixed feelings about Pantone’s color choice. This post isn’t about debating whether they got it right or wrong. My goal is to show you how to style it and make it work with your coloring and personal style. If that’s something you’d like to learn, let’s dive in!

Not sure how to make it work for you? Whether it’s finding the right shade for your palette or incorporating it through accessories, this color has something for everyone.

Embracing the Pantone Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse

Every year, the Pantone Color of the Year sets the tone for fashion, design, and art, offering a glimpse of the trends shaping the year ahead. For 2025, the spotlight is on Mocha Mousse—a subtle, soft, and cozy brown shade that feels grounding and versatile. This earthy hue invites warmth, calmness, and a touch of retro charm to our wardrobes.

But how do you take a trending color and make it your own? Let’s dive into why the Color of the Year matters and how you can seamlessly incorporate it into your style.

Why the Color of the Year Matters

The Color of the Year isn’t chosen randomly—it reflects the moment's mood and often appears first on high-fashion runways, influencing trends that trickle down to everyday collections.

Mocha Mousse, for example, is a natural continuation of the earthy browns that emerged last autumn with a distinct 70s-inspired, organic feel. This shade’s softness is approachable and versatile, making it a great addition to many wardrobes.

Whether you love staying on-trend or want to explore new options, Mocha Mousse offers an exciting opportunity to refresh your style.

The color was present on shows I worked backstage during NYFW SS25

How to Make Mocha Mousse Work for You

One of the biggest challenges with a trending color is figuring out how to embrace it in a way that feels authentic to your style. Here are a few simple ways to incorporate Mocha Mousse into your wardrobe:

1.⁠ ⁠Acknowledge Its Mood-Boosting Potential

Mocha Mousse is calming and grounding, making it an excellent choice for those moments when you need to feel more centered. Surround yourself with this soothing shade on days when you’re seeking balance and ease—whether through your clothing or accessories.

2.⁠ ⁠Work Within Your Color Palette

If Mocha Mousse isn’t part of your color analysis palette, don’t worry! This shade can still work for you in small doses. For lighter or medium tones, it complements hair and eye colors beautifully. For brighter, more saturated palettes, use it in accessories like a leather belt or boots to add depth without overpowering your look.

*Photoshoot styling by Ana Harris for BeltBe NYC*

3.⁠ ⁠Play with Accessories

Accessories are one of the easiest ways to embrace Mocha Mousse. Add a mocha-toned scarf, handbag, or shoes to your outfit for a sophisticated yet understated touch.

4.⁠ ⁠Style Beyond the Color

Remember, styling isn’t just about color—it’s the overall look. A polished hairstyle and makeup that enhances your features can make any outfit shine, even if the color isn’t traditionally “yours.”

5.⁠ ⁠Why Color Analysis Matters

Understanding your color analysis is key to building an intentional and supportive wardrobe. However, staying true to yourself is just as important. If you find a piece in Mocha Mousse that you love, wear it! Life is too short to hold back on what makes you happy.

The trick is to style it to support your unique features and boost your confidence. Color analysis is a helpful guide, but your personal style is the ultimate rule.

Final Thoughts

Mocha Mousse is an invitation to a more effortless vibe—a feeling many crave these days. Whether you embrace it as your go-to shade or use it as a playful accent, this versatile hue offers endless possibilities to create looks that feel trendy, current, and uniquely yours.

Need help making Mocha Mousse—or any color—work for you? Let’s chat! Styling sessions are a great way to explore what fits your palette, personality, and lifestyle.

Here’s to a stylish and confident 2025!

Styling Mocha Mousse: The Pantone color of the year