Every year, around this time, I like to dedicate a post to the recently chosen “Color of the Year” via the creative minds over at PANTONE. It’s become a tradition of sorts here at ‘Coffee & Chiffon’, dating back to shortly after I’d first launched this blog in January of 2020 and talked about incorporating that year’s color, “Classic Blue” into my every day wardrobe, accessories, décor and makeup.
Part of the fun each year when the color is selected is seeking out new staples for my closet, my cosmetics bag, and my apartment so that I can be both colorful and creative when I’m at home, work, or on the go – and I’ve had a blast showcasing some of those finds over the years – even if the colors or color combinations were something I wasn’t particularly used to playing around with all that much. I’ve always had a blast participating and trying new things!
So when the Color of the Year was announced back in December, my neutral-tone-loving-heart was overjoyed – because I already wear and accessorize myself and my living space with the chosen shade pretty much year-round!
This year’s color is 17-1230 – “Mocha Mousse”
From PANTONE’S WEBSITE:
“Underpinned by our desire for every day pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence. Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”
I recently sported my own variation of “Mocha Mousse” with a shoulder-baring sweater from Nordstrom while out for lunch in Historic Deerfield with my dearest friend and photographer, Dan, where we had the opportunity to have a long overdue catch-up and exchange belated holiday presents.






Since it was a more casual affair, I paired the swearer with some flared jeans and brown boots – and had no difficulty finding a neutral/brown-toned eyeshadow palette and lipstick in my current collection. I’ve been obsessing over this 24-Hour lipstick from M.A.C. in the shade ‘Meticulous’ for quite some time now. While it’s a matte formula, I applied some clear balm over it because it is dryer than dry everywhere I go right now and my lips are in desperate need of hydration at all times.
I’m excited to share more “Mocha Mousse” pieces and purchases throughout 2025. While many people were making jokes after it’s announcement that a “muddy” brown was a fitting color to define the coming year ahead – I think it’s a lovely hue that compliments so many things – and is truly easy to mix and match with other shades, as well.
And of course, if you’d like to look back on my previous PANTONE posts – I’ve linked them below!
[ 2020 ] [ 2021 ] [ 2022 ] [ 2023 ] [ 2024 ]
If you’ve got any recommendations for “Mocha Mousse” finds you think I should take a look at – feel free to reach out or leave a comment! My birthday is coming up, so I wouldn’t mind treating myself!
[ Photos by Dan Little ]
xo