The Pantone Edit: Celebrating the Color of The Year

Written by: Dooney & Bourke

Published on January 20, 2025

Time to read 2 min

The Pantone Color of the Year was announced recently, and 2025 is officially the year of Mocha Mousse (PANTONE 17-1230), representing a “global mood of connection, comfort, and harmony” as per their website. Mocha Mousse is a rich gray-brown, as decadent and smooth as its name suggests, but it's also a lovely neutral that lets other colors shine, providing a steadfast background to bounce off of. That is to say, we love it, even if it does make all of us start craving dessert.

One of our favorite things about the color of the year is how this yearly announcement inspires a fresh wave of interest in all things color. From interior designers and architects to fashionistas and beauty moguls, everyone has their own spin on how to make the year’s latest look work for them. In fact, Pantone has released a bunch of coordinated color palettes here which are sure to be replicated in outfits and more during the year ahead.

We’re looking forward to incorporating Mocha Mousse into our lives this year in a variety of ways. Of course, we think Mocha Mousse is lovely with all things Dooney blue, but we also know that the neutral tone will pair well with just about every color under the sun, so it’s time to break out the fun stuff!

Recently, we’ve been mixing things up with the bright colors of our latest Italian pebble grain leather Lucca Collection. With shades like Fuchsia, Kelly Green, and Dandelion, every one of these striking silhouettes stands out beautifully against the neutral tone of Mocha Mousse.

That’s not the only way we’ve been embracing this new color— several of our favorite silhouettes beautifully showcase the rich hue. Here are a few of our top picks, from casual chic handbags and travel essentials to date-night accessories and more.

Incorporate it into your wardrobe…

The Casual Crossbody:

This adorable crossbody, crafted from fan-favorite Florentine Italian Vacchetta leather, is the perfect blend of casual and sophisticated, with just the right amount of room for every day on the go.

The Roomy Go-To:

This roomy look can be worn by the handles and as a crossbody on the go, so it can follow you anywhere! Even better? The Italian pebble grain leather hides signs of daily wear, so carry with confidence!

The Date Night Essential:

A classic clutch with some exotic flair, perfect for dinner, dancing, and more. And that embossed Ostrich print? Chef’s kiss.

The Trendsetter:

A gorgeous belt bag with just the right amount of luxe Italian leather style and effortless functionality.

Pantone’s Color of the Year has been around since 1999, providing endless inspiration for interior designers, fashion lovers, and brands alike for the past 26 years. Here are a few of our favorites from the past few years, and of course, a couple of bags to match!