The Pantone Color of the Year Is a Huge Flop and We’re All Thinking It

Ah, the Pantone Color of the Year. It’s the annual tradition that’s supposed to spark joy, inspire designers, and set the tone (pun intended) for the next 12 months. But let’s be real: the 2025 Color of the Year is… well, it’s giving flop era.

When Pantone unveiled Mocha Mousse, the design community collectively gasped—and not in a good way. It’s the kind of shade that makes you tilt your head and squint like you’re trying to read tiny text in Comic Sans.

1. It’s the Color Equivalent of "Meh"

Remember when Pantone gave us vibrant hues like Living Coral or the calming sophistication of Classic Blue? Those were colors with personality. This year, we got something that looks like it was inspired by a laundry mishap or a murky puddle outside your favorite coffee shop. Seriously, did someone spill their oat milk latte on the swatch sheet and call it a day?

Designers thrive on creativity and bold statements, but this color feels like it’s afraid of commitment. It’s neither warm nor cool, neither bold nor neutral. It’s just… there, hovering in a weird liminal space. Not exactly the energy we want heading into 2025, right?

2. Good Luck Pairing It With Anything

Color palettes are supposed to be harmonious, but this year’s pick is the third wheel of design. It clashes with neutrals, looks muddy against brights, and somehow makes pastels feel dated. If you’re a graphic designer, interior decorator, or fashion enthusiast, you’re probably staring at your mood board in despair right now.

3. Nobody Asked for "Depressed Taupe Meets Washed-Out Chartreuse"

Okay, I’m exaggerating (but only a little). This color lacks the universal appeal that makes a Pantone pick iconic. Sure, trends are subjective, but this shade doesn’t scream “inspiration” so much as it whispers “low battery warning.” Even the name (because you know Pantone’s names are a vibe) feels like it’s trying too hard to sound deep.

4. What About the Psychology of Color, Pantone?

The Color of the Year is supposed to evoke a feeling. Optimism. Resilience. Joy. But this year’s hue feels like a shrug emoji in color form. Color psychology matters, folks! Imagine trying to use this drab shade in a campaign about hope or innovation. The vibe is off.

5. The Internet Deserves Better Memes

One of the best parts of Pantone’s annual reveal is the flood of memes and jokes that follow. But this color? It’s not even bad enough to be meme-worthy. There’s no spicy controversy, just a collective sigh of “can we skip to next year?” A missed opportunity for both comedy and creative inspiration.

6. The Trend Forecast Is Bleak

Pantone claims their pick reflects global trends, but who asked for this? The 2025 Color of the Year feels disconnected from what people are actually craving. Designers and consumers alike are looking for colors that pop on social media, elevate interiors, and sell products. This… questionable shade? Not it.

7. How to Survive This Year’s Color Disaster

So, what’s a creative to do when the Color of the Year is more flop than fabulous? Ignore it. Seriously, pretend it never happened. Instead, focus on timeless classics or your own signature palette. Use colors that actually resonate with your audience. And hey, maybe next year Pantone will redeem itself with a shade that’s worth the hype.

In the meantime, let’s all pour one out for the designers and brands who feel obligated to incorporate this year’s unfortunate hue into their projects. Stay strong, y’all. We’ll get through this, one color-correcting adjustment at a time.