An unpretentious classic meets lush, modern hue, Mocha Mousse is on trend with the “beige era” the wedding and event industry is experiencing, according to Maggie Barton, chief executive officer with Butler’s Pantry catering and event specialist in St. Louis. Rather than classic staples like black, blue and gold, Barton says beige tones are big in everything from event design to home décor and wardrobes. “We’re seeing a shift toward grounding palettes in soft neutrals like white, tan and, of course, the rich and versatile Mocha Mousse,” she notes.
Mocha Mousse is the ultimate elevated neutral, ideal for grounding any event’s design, Barton explains: “It’s a sophisticated choice for table décor, where it can be featured in lush linens, textured napkins or glowing candles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mocha-toned glassware or vintage-style chargers can tie the entire look together, adding a subtle yet impactful pop of color to any tablescape.” Barton says hosts also can bring the organic, peaceful shade into events with florals through nontraditional elements, such as pampas grass, dried leaves or mocha-toned ribbons, adding earthy textures to bouquets and centerpieces.
The versatile hue also shines in fashion, she says: “Bridesmaid dresses in mocha offer a timeless elegance, especially when paired with softer accents like ivory or dusty rose. It’s a color that effortlessly bridges classic and modern aesthetics.” For winter weddings or events, mocha faux-fur wraps are a decadent way to keep guests cozy while elevating the seasonal style, Barton adds.
Ladue-based internationally lauded fashion designer Audra Noyes Herndon details how to incorporate rich brown tones into your wardrobe by refreshing core foundational silhouettes in elevated, modern fabrics. “This versatile shade seamlessly transitions across seasons, making it a worthy wardrobe investment,” she says.
Within her eponymous line, AUDRA, lightweight wool suiting, patchwork shirting and trench shirt dresses in mocha shades bridge classic tailoring with effortless statement dressing. “For a playful yet elevated twist, pair mocha or rich brown tones with ivory, soft pinks or olive greens, as seen in our Floral Lamé motif,” Herndon adds.
Danielle Kalish, interior designer and owner of ABODE by Parklyn Interiors home décor shop in Clayton, says Mocha Mousse is fit for all areas of the home – including in your closet. “Brown hues are so lovely to add to any space; they add such warmth and are truly classic,” she says.
To incorporate the shade into your home, she says, look for mocha-toned accents such as vases, pillows and throws. “For ready-to-wear fashion pieces, I just bought a great pair of brown denim that I love styling monochromatically with a brown top and boots. It feels like a fresh color in my wardrobe.”
Pantone’s pick for the year will surely have us seeing the oft-overlooked brown color family with fresh eyes. Whether or not Mocha Mousse is your cup of tea (or cocoa, in this case), it’s safe to say that neutral tones have entered an opulent new era.
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