Each year, the Pantone Color Institute announces a hue that’s meant to capture the cultural pulse and influence design across fashion, interiors, and branding. For 2025, that color is Mocha Mousse (Pantone 17‑1230) a warm, taupe-brown neutral meant to evoke comfort and a return to earthy sophistication. But if you’ve been scrolling through beauty launches or walking past a cosmetics display lately, you’ll notice something very different: Lilac is everywhere! From dreamy pastel packaging to lilac blush, lipstick, shadow, and “lilac milk” manicures, the beauty industry has fully embraced this soft, expressive shade. Celebrities like Rihanna and Selena Gomez have helped amplify the look, making lilac the real star of 2025 beauty trends.
Mocha vs. Lilac: Calitho wondered- why the disconnect?
Pantone chooses its color based on large-scale cultural trends, design influences, and emotional cues from around the world. Mocha Mousse was selected to evoke a sense of stability and warmth, a timeless hue suited for interiors, refined packaging, and elevated branding.
Beauty, however, often plays by its own rules. It’s fast moving, more emotion-driven, and deeply visual. While Mocha Mousse may suit a high-end skincare box or spa brand, lilac offers a more youthful, aspirational energy. This resonates with consumers on social media and in stores. In short, Pantone sets the tone. Beauty sets the mood. Both colors have their place in 2025’s visual landscape. Their usage depends on what story a brand wants to tell. Mocha is warm, refined, and grounded. Lilac is light, whimsical, and modern. And in the beauty world, sometimes following your own color story is the boldest statement of all.
Calitho is already setting its sights on the colors that will define 2026. We’re exploring early trend forecasts to stay ahead of the curve in beauty, packaging, and print design. Whatever shades take center stage, we’re ready! Let us help with your next project by requesting a quote today.
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