Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year is here, and it’s stirring up all kinds of opinions. Say hello to Mocha Mousse, a warm, earthy tone that’s… let’s just say “debatable” on the crowd-pleasing scale. Whether you love its cozy neutrality or think it could use a little pep, there’s no denying its potential as a branding powerhouse.
At Pinnacle Promotions, we’re all about helping brands stay on-trend while showcasing their unique style. Let’s dig into how your company can use Mocha Mousse and its complementary hues to create standout promotional products that scream “trendy and thoughtful”—not “boring and beige.”
Why Should Brands Care About Color Trends?

Color trends are more than just a design fad—they’re a way to stay relevant. Pantone’s Color of the Year influences everything from fashion and interior design to marketing and branding. Incorporating these trending colors into your promotional product strategy shows your customers and employees that your brand is in the know. Consider it an easy way to refresh your brand’s aesthetic without a complete overhaul.
Color is also a powerful tool for storytelling. It evokes emotions, sets a tone, and can even trigger memories. And let’s not forget—neutrals like Mocha Mousse have been trending for a while now, dominating everything from home decor to viral TikTok outfit hauls. Think about the surge in popularity of beige loungewear sets, minimalist interiors, and earthy palettes in influencer content. These trends signal that consumers are drawn to colors that evoke calm and balance—qualities that align perfectly with this year’s Pantone pick.
And hey, if you’re not feeling the exact shade of Mocha Mousse, don’t worry—there are plenty of creative ways to adapt the trend to suit your vibe.
How to Make Mocha Mousse Work for Your Brand
Pair It with Complementary Colors
Mocha Mousse is a neutral tone, which means it pairs beautifully with just about anything. To give it a modern twist, consider using Pantone’s suggested complementary colors, like rich greens, deep blues, soft creams, or even blush pinks. These shades can bring out the best in Mocha Mousse while keeping your branding fresh and eye-catching.
Use It as a Base, Not the Focus
If the thought of making Mocha Mousse your centerpiece feels a little too “meh,” consider using it as a foundation instead. It’s an ideal base color for adding pops of brighter shades. For example, custom blush drinkware with Mocha Mousse logos or cream-colored notebooks with a splash of vibrant green would make on-trend merch that stands out while staying subtle. Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s all about balance.
Highlight Full-Color Customization
Dye-sublimated products allow you to color-match designs exactly (or at least pretty closely) to Mocha Mousse and its complementary tones. This is a great way to create cohesive branding, especially if you’re working with a specific aesthetic for events or giveaways. Promotional items like customized apparel, trendy crossbody bags, or even lanyards (yes, lanyards can be trendy!) can make all the difference when Mocha Mousse is paired with a great design. At Pinnacle Promotions, we can help you source products in just the right color, ensuring your brand looks polished and on-trend.
Inspiration: A Mood Board of 2025 Products
We’re taking Mocha Mousse to the next level with a curated mood board of promotional products that embrace the color—and its complementary palette—in style. Here’s what made the cut:
Apparel in Earthy Neutrals
Neutral-toned hoodies, caps, and t-shirts are versatile staples that everyone loves. Choose items in shades close to Mocha Mousse, like taupe or light cocoa, and pair them with your brand’s logo in cream or sage green for a subtle yet sophisticated look. These items exude warmth and dependability, perfect for exclusive merch or trendy customer giveaways.
Drinkware with a Pop
From coffee tumblers to reusable water bottles, drinkware in a muted coral and complementary hues like forest green or cornflower blue can make an instant impact. Look for items with full-color printing options to incorporate Mocha Mousse alongside your brand’s signature colors. Branded drinkware is practical and a great way to keep your brand in customers’ hands—literally.
Accessories with Flair
Think cozy blankets, canvas totes, sustainable journals, or hats. These items can be designed with a gradient effect, blending Mocha Mousse with complementary colors to create a modern, eye-catching aesthetic.
Full-Color Customization Options
Products like dye-sublimated bags, drinkware, or even apparel let you go all-in on the Mocha Mousse trend. Add layered designs with complementary greens, beige, or blues for a cohesive, on-trend look. These items offer endless possibilities for showcasing your brand’s creativity.
Pinnacle Promotions: Bringing Your Brand Mood Board to Life
Whether you’re fully on board with Mocha Mousse or prefer to use it sparingly, this year’s Pantone pick is a chance to experiment and innovate. It’s not just about following trends—it’s about finding creative ways to make them work for your brand.
Pinnacle knows trends, and we specialize in turning your ideas into reality. Whether you’re inspired by Mocha Mousse or want to create a completely custom palette, we have the tools, expertise, and products to bring your vision to life. From sourcing trending items to creating fully customized designs, we’re here to help your brand stand out.
Ready to design your brand’s 2025 mood board? Let’s work together to create trendy merch that captures the spirit of the year and keeps your brand ahead of the curve!