Pantone recently announced its colour of choice for 2025: mocha mousse. It is described as “evoking thoughtful indulgence”, which is exactly why it’s so favoured in fashion right now.
Brown dominated the Autumn/Winter 2024 fashion week runways. The shade was a favoured choice for fashion houses such as Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu and Burberry.
Espresso, tobacco, nutmeg – anyhow you name it, the colour is one that’s easy to mix and match.
Brown does not provide a jarring tonal contrast against brighter shades too, which can be a problem with visually strong monochromes like black and white.
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Celebrities have been obsessed with everything chocolatey. It seems to be the answer to getting the perfect snaps (glamorous, but still demure – and mindful) to share on social media.
In terms of accessories, brown suede bags are said to be a must-have. The material may seem a little retro, but it also works well to ground an outfit in a “quiet luxury” sort of manner.
For eyewear, frames in earthy shades are becoming increasingly popular. This is especially so for men, as it gives off a very debonair vibe.
Shoes are also in the game. Take your pick of different designs such as ballet flats, sneakers, sandals and more, but all in brown, of course.
Some people are even calling the colour as the “new neutral”. Bear in mind that nudes were all the rage a couple of years back – that was until everyone realised beige and peach can look washed out and make a person’s skin look ashen.
Brown may not always be a favourite on the red carpet as it tends to blend in with the surroundings (the exact same reason why it’s so easy to pair up), but it does have it moments.
Fashion it-girl Zendaya favours the colour. Her Giambattista Valli gown at the 2018 Oscars is one good example of how head-turning it can be.
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In October this year, the actress was spotted wearing a similar shade to an event in New York City. The mahogany leather dress by Louis Vuitton remains among her most iconic looks.
The universal appeal of brown probably lies in its ability to walk the line between being luxurious without being overbearing.
Or as Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, puts it: “Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, mocha mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace the aspirational and luxe.”
