Mocha is Back: The Colour of 2025 and Its Tasty History
As we look ahead to design and fashion trends for 2025, mocha is taking centre stage as the colour of the year. This warm, earthy brown captures a sense of comfort and timelessness that feels just right for the current moment. But for those who’ve been following trends, this isn’t mocha’s first time in the spotlight. The last time it was truly trendy was in the early 2000s, around 2004, when neutral palettes and natural vibes were all the rage.
American designers like Michael Kors and Donna Karan were known for incorporating mocha tones into their collections during that era, emphasizing the versatility and sophistication of this rich brown hue.
Reflecting on that period, Sean Beckingham, partner at Branding & Buzzing and a former fashion art directos, shares, “My last memory of mocha being so popular was back when I was working in fashion. It was everywhere in clothing—earthy tones were in, and mocha was a staple for creating that warm, natural aesthetic. Its return in 2025 is like a nostalgic nod to that era. who knew now i would be eating my way through it”
To celebrate mocha’s resurgence, let’s take a look back at some of the food trends from 2004 that perfectly pair with Mocha.
1. Cupcake Craze
Back in 2004, cupcakes were having their moment. Boutique shops like Sprinkles were popping up, offering gourmet versions of this classic treat. Flavours like mocha-chocolate or espresso buttercream were popular choices, combining the decadence of chocolate with the richness of coffee.
2. Fusion Cuisine Takes Off
Fusion dishes were everywhere in the early 2000s, mixing global flavours in creative ways. Think Korean tacos or Thai-inspired pasta. These bold combinations reflected the adventurous spirit of the time, much like the colour mocha itself—familiar, yet with a sophisticated twist.
3. Low-Carb Living
The Atkins Diet was a huge trend in 2004, influencing everything from restaurant menus to grocery shelves. Low-carb mocha lattes became a go-to for Canadians looking to enjoy their coffee without the sugar, and the trend set the stage for today’s keto movement.
4. Coffeehouse Culture
The early 2000s saw the rise of indie coffee shops across Canada, creating cozy hubs for community gatherings. Drinks like mocha lattes were staples, bridging the gap between a caffeine fix and a comforting indulgence.
5. Artisanal Chocolate
Chocolate was evolving from a simple treat to an art form in 2004. Artisanal, single-origin bars became popular, and mocha truffles were a decadent way to enjoy the interplay of coffee and chocolate flavours.
As we embrace mocha as the colour of 2025, its ties to 2004 remind us why this warm and versatile tone continues to resonate. From fashion to food, mocha brings a sense of connection, comfort, and creativity that stands the test of time.