I tried this earthy brown nail color for 14 days (my summer manicure never looked so sophisticated)

Summer is the perfect season to refresh your style palette, and 2025 brings an exciting trend that’s captivating nail enthusiasts worldwide: Earthy Chic Pantone Highlight featuring the rich, warm tones of Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year. This June, as nature blooms in full glory, these vibrant colors rooted in natural elements are transforming manicures into sophisticated statements of earthy elegance.

The power of Pantone’s Mocha Mousse in summer nail design

PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse represents a return to nature and authenticity, ideal for grounding our manicures in something real, warm, and welcoming,” states Pantone’s Color Institute. This rich chocolate-inspired hue serves as the perfect backdrop for summer nail art, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional bright summer colors.

The versatility of this shade makes it particularly appealing as we embrace warmer weather. “Mocha Mousse is a rich, neutral hue that blends the depth of chocolate with the softness of a creamy beige. Its warm undertones make it universally flattering, suiting a variety of skin tones and styles,” explains Bluesky Cosmetics, a leading nail polish brand.

Summer pairings that elevate your nail game

This season’s most captivating nail designs incorporate Mocha Mousse with complementary elements that enhance its earthy appeal. Consider these stunning combinations:

  • Mocha base with gold leaf accents for a sun-kissed summer look
  • Alternating Mocha Mousse with soft sage green for a garden-inspired manicure
  • Abstract patterns combining the brown hue with cream tones for beachy vibes
  • Metallic bronze details on a Mocha Mousse background

Transitioning from spring to summer with earthy elegance

“This earthy, warm, and versatile shade is perfect for transitioning seamlessly from winter’s cosy vibes to spring’s fresh energy,” notes Bluesky Cosmetics. As we enter summer, the warm tones of Mocha Mousse create a beautiful contrast with the natural elements of the season, making it an unexpected but refreshing choice for June manicures.

“Mocha Mousse feels grounded and comforting, making it a natural fit for a year focused on simplicity and warmth,” says Mazz Hanna, nail artist and industry expert.

Texture play: Elevating your summer nail aesthetic

What makes this trend particularly exciting for summer 2025 is the innovative use of texture. Like how volume can transform your hairstyle, texture transforms your manicure. Experiment with:

  • Matte finish for a velvety, sand-like appearance
  • Glossy accent nails for contrast against matte backgrounds
  • Subtle shimmer to mimic summer sunlight on natural surfaces

Minimalist nail art that speaks volumes

“Enhance Mocha Mousse with metallic elements such as gold or bronze and stripes to add a touch of glamour,” suggests the Clear Jelly Stamper Blog. This approach resonates perfectly with summer’s fashion goals of refined simplicity while maintaining visual interest.

Sustainable beauty meets earthy inspiration

This trend aligns beautifully with the growing demand for sustainable beauty options. Like creating versatile summer wardrobes without buying new items, earthy nail palettes promote longevity and timeless appeal.

The flattering effect of earth tones

Just as the right summer tops can create a slimming effect, Mocha Mousse elongates and flatters the appearance of hands. “Mocha Mousse is a versatile neutral that will become a staple in nail salons,” predicts Mazz Hanna, highlighting its universally complementary nature.

As summer unfolds, these vibrant colors rooted in nature offer a refreshing departure from predictable neon brights. The Earthy Chic Pantone trend invites us to reconnect with natural elegance while expressing contemporary style—proving that sometimes, the most sophisticated summer statement comes in the warm, rich tones of the earth beneath our feet.