Every year, Pantone attempts to capture the global mood in a single hue sparking conversation among designers, creatives, and color enthusiasts along the way. 2025’s nominee is PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse; a warm, rich brown that evokes the comforting qualities of chocolate and coffee.
We believe that brown holds unique potential, but it does beg the question: how does this global trend translate to print? The answer lies in a thoughtful pairing of color and paper. Cougar® Natural provides the perfect foundation to bring Mocha Mousse to life, maximize its richness and depth, and explore its versatility.
“Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, [Mocha Mousse] expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence,” shares Leatrice Eiseman, the Executive Director at the Pantone Color Institute, “Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, it extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”
It’s true, brown is a durable, reliable color, associated with wood, leather, and the earth, with qualities that inspire trust and comfort. When done right, a hue like Mocha Mousse implies elegance and comfort, but without careful execution in print you risk achieving a muddy, dull feeling. That’s where the nuanced warmth of Cougar Natural comes in.
Paper operates as the “fifth color in four-color printing” because CMYK inks are transparent, meaning that a paper’s shade interacts with its design. The warm tone of Cougar Natural complements Mocha Mousse, highlighting warm hues or skin tones and amplifying its richness without overpowering it.
This pairing can transform printed pieces into works of art that evoke emotion and elegance. High-quality print begins with high-quality paper and Cougar is made to the highest, most exacting standards—reproducing luxurious solids and exceptional skin tones, including Pantone’s Color of the Year.
In addition to its color reproduction, the texture of Cougar Natural is another asset for creatives. Available in two finishes—smooth and vellum—the sheet provides options to suit various moods. Its vellum finish in particular offers a subtle “tooth” that can add depth and dimension to printed designs, making it a favorite among designers for its natural feel and impeccable printability.
Imagine printing a rich Mocha Mousse full bleed on Cougar Natural vellum. The subtly textured surface mimics the appearance of wood grain or leather, adding realism and materiality.
For nearly 50 years, Cougar has been the uncoated printing paper of choice for creatives and printers alike. Its versatility, availability, and unmatched print performance make it a trusted partner for designers looking to bring their vision to life. When working with Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, Cougar Natural is your secret weapon. From enhancing warm tones to adding texture and depth, it ensures your printed pieces are not just seen but felt.
Ready to explore the possibilities of Cougar Natural? Be sure to check out our free printed paper resources and discover how this exceptional paper can transform your next project.
