Mocha Mousse, the warming rich brown that’s taking over 2025: Pantone’s Colour of the Year is bringing elegance to beauty trends, from sultry eyeshadows to subtle contours and bold lips

Jan 3 , 2025

Mocha Mousse, the warming rich brown that’s taking over 2025 after Pantone named it Colour of the Year. Photo: Handout

This versatile shade adds depth to make-up looks and complements a range of skin tones, highlighting a cosy aesthetic – and when used as a blush, it helps create that perfect sun-kissed flush

Colour palettes in 2025 will be served with a side of Mocha Mousse. Crowned by trend-forecasting powerhouse Pantone as the shade of the year, this “warming rich brown” strikes the perfect balance between indulgent chocolate and a flawlessly brewed morning latte. It’s rich without being overpowering, cosy yet anything but dull.

This warm, dreamy brown comes as a relief after 2023’s Barbie Pink and 2024’s Brat Green – shades that were both anything but subtle. And Mocha Mousse is softer and smoother than the moody dark browns of 2023 epitomised by Hailey Bieber’s viral latte make-up. One could argue, though, that this trend has been brewing for some time, from Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand Skims’ earthy palette, to Sabrina Carpenter’s make-up in her 2024 hit “Espresso”.

Seasonless, versatile and perfectly aligned with the quiet luxury aesthetic, Mocha Mousse slips seamlessly into wardrobes with minimal effort. And when it comes to make-up? That’s where a little finesse makes all the difference.

Mocha Mousse for the lips

Makeup by Mario’s Ultra Suede Cozy Lip Creme in Mocha Latte. Photo: Handout

A mocha-toned lip sits right at the crossroads of 1990s nostalgia and modern elegance. Neutral enough to pair with bold eyes but rich enough to stand on its own, Mocha Mousse brings a perfect combination of depth and polish.

“A swipe of nude brown or caramel gloss can give you an understated, endlessly wearable and polished look. But when the mood demands drama, a matt mocha lipstick delivers,” says make-up artist and Veus Cosmetics co-founder Daniela Santander. It demonstrates monochromatic power with just enough punch – bold but never overbearing.

Mocha Mousse for the skin

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream. Photo: Handout

With its warm, chameleon-like undertones, this shade works flawlessly across the complexion spectrum. “A light sweep of it on the cheekbones, bridge of the nose and cupid’s bow brings just the right depth while keeping things subtle,” Santander suggests.

When it comes to contouring, Mocha Mousse makes the case that brown doesn’t need to scream to make a point. Its soft undertones hit the sweet spot for subtle sculpting on fair to medium skin tones, adding refined depth without a hint of harshness.

Mocha Mousse eyeshadow

Patrick Ta Beauty Major Dimension III Matte Eyeshadow Palette. Photo: Handout