It’s official: 2025’s Pantone Color of the Year is Pantone 17-1230, Mocha Mousse. Pantone describes the color as a hue that “nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.” It is a foundational color that is rich and warm, perfect for this time of year! (Mocha Mousse=Hot Chocolate?!) As we all reach into our closets for something warm and comfortable, let us help you turn this year’s Pantone Color of the Year into the perfect winter ensemble!
Wear it to Work
We love a neutral colorscape for a classic winter work ensemble! Mix and match textured fabrics and patterns to give your mocha mousse-inspired work ensemble some visual interest. For example, we’ve styled the Argent Peak Lapel Blazer over a lovely neutral underlying palette and topped off the ensemble with a rich chocolate brown suede bag that keeps the look interesting yet chic.
Argent Peak Lapel Blazer, $595
M.M. LaFleur The Bryce Turtleneck, $195
Argent Single Pleat Trouser, $295
A Stone’s Throw Wynners Earrings, $58
J.Crew Large Berkeley Tote in Suede, $159.50
Ally Ankle Boot in Chocolate Brown, $425
Wear it on the Weekend
Sweater weather is officially upon us! You can find numerous sweaters in the mocha mousse palette in stores, but this fantastic Nili Lotan Fern Fair Isle-Style Wool Sweater caught my eye immediately! It’s so fun; you don’t need much to turn it into a cute weekend errand ensemble. Pair it with a simple wide-leg pant, earrings, and a sturdy boot (especially if you’re in DC right now), and you’re ready to go!
Nili Lotan Fern Fair Isle-Style Wool Sweater, $670
Reformation Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans, $168
A Stone’s Throw Raw Diamond Cluster Earrings, $75
Dr. Martens 2976 Yellow Stitch Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots, $134.95
Wear it for Date Night
The Pantone Color of the Year might not scream “date night” color to you, but it should. We’re here to prove that just because the color inspiration is neutral doesn’t mean the ensemble has to be boring! Elevate this color palette for a night out with a dress with some detail, a classic knee-high boot, and some eye-catching jewelry. Then, top it off with a warm and cozy long wool coat and a bag that seamlessly ties the different shades of mocha together. You’ll look like a million bucks!
Reiss Bridget Belted Wool Blend Coat, $625
Sézane Harper Dress, $225
Monica Vinader Deia Hoop Earrings, $178
Sézane Abel Bag, $375
Vince Sol Knee High Boot, $416.50
On a post-holiday spending freeze? Take inspiration from us, and style your own ensemble! Look through your closet for mocha mousse clothing, and let us know how you styled it. We can’t wait to hear!
Real Life Style is a style consulting firm that teaches busy women to wear their power so they can live their lives fully and confidently. Lani Inlander, Kyle Dunphy and Sloane True are based in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and serve clients nationwide. We offer personal styling services, and an on-demand e-course.
Once in a while, you can find Lani Inlander and Real Life Style on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram. Mostly, they are happily busy serving their fabulous clients, not hanging out online!
These outfits are so nice it makes me hate the color a little less than I usually do! You’re almost convincing me….