Is 'Mocha Mousse' the Color of the Year You Love to Hate? Inside Pantone's 2025 Celebration

Celebrating Pantone's Color of the Year 2025

It’s Thursday night in Chelsea, and Pantone has announced its Color of the Year for 2025: “Mocha Mousse,” a rich, flavorful brown. This color is intended to represent a global mood of connection, comfort, and harmony. However, the reception on social media has been less than enthusiastic, with many responding with poop emojis.

Upon arrival at the venue, attendees are dressed in shades of taupe and brown, with some even panicking to find something brown to wear. Inside, the atmosphere is filled with smooth brown decor and a scent reminiscent of a spa. Waiters serve espresso martinis, and various brands showcase their products in what they call “activations.”

A Celebration of Brands, Not Just Color

The event features a Joybird chaise draped in a Pantone throw, custom scents like Mocha Suede, and even a cashmere display boasting the happiness of its Mongolian goats. The room is filled with luxury goods and influencers, including TikTok star Antoni Bumba, posing in a Mini Cooper painted in Mocha Mousse.

As guests mingle, they engage with interactive displays and are invited to share their “special moments” on mocha-colored Post-it notes. The food is predominantly brown, echoing the theme, with a humorous acknowledgment of the lack of colorful options.

Mixed Reactions to Mocha Mousse

While many attendees embrace the color, some express disappointment, wishing for brighter alternatives. The conversation flows from beigecore trends to deeper reflections on how technology shapes our experience of color and time.

Elley Cheng, Pantone's president, announces that the London Eye will be illuminated in Mocha Mousse. Laurie Pressman, from the Pantone Color Institute, highlights the harmony the color represents, despite the challenging times ahead. The night ends on a hopeful note, with attendees clapping for the future of this controversial color.