Sundae Girl: Gelato Shades And Scents For Summer

By Sarah Halliwell July 27 2025

From pistachio to raspberry ripple, gelato shades and scents are as cool and carefree as a 99 on a hot day …

Do you remember Neopolitan ice cream, with its elegant stripes of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry? As a kid, I thought this was the most sophisticated thing ever. The chime of the ice cream van always ignites memories of sun-browned grass and running through the sprinkler – how sunny and uncomplicated our childhoods seem compared to now. With the world feeling nostalgic for those days, it’s no wonder the beauty business is harking back to juicy, fruity sorbet and creamy gelato shades. Raspberry ripple ice cream sums up summer’s unique blend of sweetness and nostalgia in one. Clever Jo Malone London taps into this with new Raspberry Ripple Cologne, a light and fruity waft of summer. As head of fragrance Celine Roux puts it: “We are attracted to happy memories. In a world of uncertainty, it’s reassuring and comforting to go back to what you know, and return to happy times. Who doesn’t have a happy memory of eating an ice cream at the seaside? We crave sweet treats, to raise our endorphins and make us feel good.”

In similar vein, Akro’s Crush captures the scent of rose macarons – its notes, from roasted almond and lychee to praline and vanilla, sound delicious (perfumer Oliver Cresp is the king of gourmand scents). H&M’s limited-edition collection of body mists, eau de toilettes and hand creams celebrate flavours such as Sun-Kissed Caramel and Posh Pistachio, from €6 to €13. When it comes to vanilla, nothing beats Matiere Premiere’s peerless Vanilla Powder eau de parfum, although insiders snap up Roger & Gallet’s Vanille Soleil, a bargain at €26.

Ice cream colours extend to make-up, too. For cheeks, ditch powders and experiment with balmy new textures, such as Charlotte Tilbury’s beautifully light new Unreal Blush sticks, as appealing as a Strawberry Mivvi. We’re wearing juicy lip oils and butters as creamy as soft scoop, in shades of cherry, mango and strawberry; no one wants dry mattes right now. Choose your flavour, and don’t hold back on the sprinkles …