Mocha Mousse Brunette Is the Hair Color to Indulge in Right Now- NewBeauty

When Pantone announced its 2025 color of the year was going to be mocha mousse, it threw the creative world for a loop. Unlike the previous year’s hues, vivid magenta and peach fuzz, 2025’s shade was universally flattering across the board, from fashion to interiors and, of course, beauty. Luxe, luscious, soft and sophisticated, it instantly became a favorite among the beauty set. Still, no lane of the industry felt more appropriate for the hue than being adopted as the next trendy hair color. The name oozes sophistication and alludes to a charming brunette shade with subtle tones that teeter between rich and indulgent, making it ideal for almost anyone.

But beyond its appeal, the mocha mousse hair color trend falls right in line with the industry’s shift to more elegant looks. To learn more about this gorgeous shade, we spoke with three colorists and celebrity stylists. See their breakdown of the trend below, along with their tips for achieving and maintaining the shade at home.

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What characteristics define mocha mousse?

Expensive and luxurious are two of the main elements that make mocha mousse special. From luscious swirls of soft brown to streaks of warm tones, it screams rich and sophisticated. Coincidentally, those are the same characteristics that set mocha mousse apart from other brunette shades. “This color is rich and uses warm undertones against a neutral brown base to give it a sophisticated feel,” says celebrity hairstylist Kelly Novobielski. Like the name suggests, it’s anything but dull or boring. It has depth, thanks to a balanced blend of highlights and contrasting colors, and it can even be tweaked to be warmer or cooler depending on your preference.

Who does mocha mousse work for?

The beauty of this shade is that it can be adjusted to fit any complexion. “Mocha mousse is one of a few hair colors that has universal appeal and can work with warm, neutral or cool undertones,” says colorist Natalie Rotger. Put simply, it’s very versatile for those wanting a timeless brunette look. However, if you’re unsure about your skin’s undertones, Novobielski notes that neutral complexions are the safest bet with mocha mousse since they blend both warm and cool elements seamlessly.

What to ask for at the salon

Some hair color trends are pretty set in stone, offering little variation. But according to the experts, that isn’t the case with mocha mousse. Versatility is one of the main reasons the shade has done so well. “With this color, you can really decide the amount of richness and depth you want to achieve,” says Novobielski. When heading to the salon, colorist Meghan Masterson suggests starting with a brown that’s not rooted in a red base or too ashy. With a neutral base, you can then work with your colorist to formulate the best mocha mousse shade for your complexion.

If you’re aiming to achieve a richer color through a single process coloring technique, Rotger recommends asking for a neutral shade with deep tones for underlying warmth. However, for those seeking a more multi-dimensional brunette, she says highlights are key. “Ask for a more subtle tone-on-tone look rather than traditional highlights, as it will give you a softer brunette color.”

How to maintain mocha mousse hair

Color maintenance always involves an arsenal of color-preserving products, including shampoos, conditioners and hair masks. With mocha mousse you’ll need to craft a wash day routine to prolong the life of your color, but there are several other things to consider. First, brunettes look best when gleaming with shine. That said, you’ll want to prioritize hydrating products that strengthen your hair and keep it looking healthy. Investing in a deep conditioner or protein treatment can help preserve the richness of your new color. Adding a shine-enhancing product, such as a gloss or hair oil, is also a good idea to ensure the undertones of the shade are pronounced and shining brightly.