As we step into 2025, Pantone has unveiled its Color of the Year: PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. This soft, warm, and cosy brown hue is a harmonious blend of light brown, taupe, and coffee tones.
It evokes a sense of comfort and timeless elegance, making it a perfect choice for a year that values both grounding and creativity. But how does this versatile shade translate into the world of packaging?
Let’s explore how Mocha Mousse can change packaging design across industries.
The Psychology of Mocha Mousse
Colours play a significant role in consumer behaviour. Mocha Mousse exudes warmth, dependability, and sophistication. It’s a hue that feels approachable yet refined, bridging the gap between modern minimalism and nostalgic charm. This makes it particularly effective in packaging, where the goal is often to create an emotional connection with consumers while conveying brand values.
Applications of Mocha Mousse in Packaging
1. Pet Food Packaging
For the pet food industry, Mocha Mousse offers a natural and earthy aesthetic. Its warm tones align perfectly with the themes of health and sustainability, resonating with pet owners who prioritise wholesome, high-quality products for their furry companions. The colour’s cosy undertones can also evoke feelings of trust and care, making it an ideal choice for premium and organic pet food lines.
2. Sports Nutrition
In sports nutrition, bold and energetic colours often dominate. However, incorporating Mocha Mousse as a complementary or accent colour can introduce a sense of balance and sophistication. This is particularly effective for products targeting a more mature or lifestyle-focused audience. Imagine a sleek protein powder pouch with Mocha Mousse accents—it’s understated yet impactful.
3. Food and Beverage Packaging
Mocha Mousse’s coffee-inspired tones are a natural fit for food and beverage products. From artisanal coffee bags to gourmet chocolate bars, this hue enhances the perception of quality and craftsmanship. The earthy palette can reinforce sustainability messaging, especially when paired with recyclable or biodegradable materials.
4. Building and Home Improvement Products
For building materials and home improvement products, Mocha Mousse conveys reliability and durability. Its neutral yet warm character makes it a versatile choice for packaging paints, tiles, or hardware. The colour can also appeal to consumers seeking home improvement solutions that feel both modern and timeless.
Pairing Mocha Mousse with Other Colors
To make the most of Mocha Mousse in packaging, consider its compatibility with other hues:
- Soft Neutrals: Combine with beige, cream, or light grey for a minimalist and sophisticated look.
- Rich Contrasts: Pair with deep greens or navy blue to create a striking yet balanced aesthetic.
- Metallic Accents: Add touches of gold or bronze to elevate the luxurious feel of the packaging.
- Pops of Color: Introduce vibrant shades like coral or teal for a modern and dynamic appeal.
With sustainability taking centre stage in 2025, Mocha Mousse complements the trend toward eco-friendly packaging. Its natural tones harmonize beautifully with kraft paper, compostable films, and other environmentally friendly materials. This connection to nature reinforces a brand’s commitment to sustainable practices, appealing to the growing segment of conscious consumers.
PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse is more than just a colour; it’s a statement. Its warm, inviting presence offers endless possibilities for packaging design, enabling brands to connect with consumers on a deeper level. Whether you’re designing for pet food, sports nutrition, gourmet products, or home improvement goods, this versatile hue promises to leave a lasting impression.
If your brand is looking to invest in packaging, we will guide you through the entire print process. Providing recommendations to improve efficiency, reduce costs and add untold value to the end product.
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