27 87 Perfumes: Barcelona's Modern Fragrance Revolution Rooted in the Present
The Birth of a Contemporary Fragrance House in Barcelona
In 2016, Romy Kowalewski founded 27 87 in Barcelona – a name reflecting both her birthdate and the brand's distinctive bottle sizes of 27ml and 87ml. Born in Berlin, Kowalewski initially moved to Barcelona to study business administration but discovered her true passion for fragrance creation and its creative, emotional aspects.
The brand philosophy centers on "No Scent Like the Present," challenging traditional perfumery boundaries to create something "real, raw, and connected to the now." Barcelona as the creative home significantly influences the brand's process and mindset, fostering a modern, multicultural, and unrestricted identity that focuses on substance over excess.
27 87's minimalist, monochrome bottle design serves as a blank canvas, allowing the fragrance to take center stage. The brand emphasizes co-creation, inviting wearers to make each scent their own and part of their personal story. All fragrances are designed as unisex compositions, crafted through meticulous research and traditional craftsmanship by local Barcelona artisans.
This approach represents a fundamental shift from conventional perfumery, where the brand aims to create scents that resonate emotionally and act as wearable statements of individuality. The emphasis on high-quality ingredients and artisanal production methods reflects the brand's commitment to authenticity and contemporary relevance.
Innovative Fragrance Creations and Molecular Perfumery
27 87 collaborates with internationally renowned perfumers including Mark Buxton, Shyamala Maisondieu, Jordi Fernández, and Daniela Andrier to create groundbreaking compositions. The brand organizes its fragrances into four distinct lines: NOW (versatile everyday scents), GO (exploration-inspired), WILD (bold statement fragrances), and CALM (quiet presence).
Genetic Bliss represents a pinnacle of molecular perfumery, combining five pure molecules including Akigalawood® and Javanol to create a signature scent that adapts to individual skin chemistry. As a linear fragrance, it doesn't follow traditional top-middle-base note development, instead maintaining consistent presence while harmonizing with natural scent.
#Hashtag offers an olfactory interpretation of digitalization, blending Somalian incense with Moroccan cedarwood and metallic aldehydes to mirror modern life's tech appeal. Wandervogel celebrates exploration with exotic shiso, marine notes, and Moroccan mint, while Sonar captures rock concert atmosphere through tuberose, beer accords, and metallic elements.
The brand's willingness to experiment with unconventional ingredients sets it apart. Elixir de Bombe combines spicy red pepper with sweet caramel, while Mosaïque features smoky leather with gourmand touches. Each fragrance pushes creative boundaries while maintaining sophisticated balance.
Luxury Niche Positioning and Sustainable Availability
27 87 positions itself firmly in the luxury niche market, targeting sophisticated fragrance enthusiasts who appreciate contemporary, artistic scents. The brand appeals to individuals seeking unique, high-quality fragrances that allow personal expression without overwhelming presence, particularly those who value minimalist aesthetics and innovative compositions.
All fragrances are offered as Eau de Parfum in the signature 27ml and 87ml sizes, with pricing reflecting premium ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship. Genetic Bliss and Per Se command higher prices due to their innovative molecular compositions and industry-first concepts.
Sustainability and ethical practices form core brand values. 27 87 uses eco-friendly packaging and responsibly sourced materials while maintaining cruelty-free status. The brand follows the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) regarding animal testing, with suppliers being members of the European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA).
Distribution channels include the brand's website, select retail partners, and specialized online niche beauty stores. Refillable bottles have been introduced for some fragrances, reinforcing the sustainability commitment. The limited availability and handcrafted production create exclusivity that resonates with discerning customers.
The brand's value proposition lies in offering truly contemporary fragrances that reflect modern life while maintaining exceptional quality and artistic integrity. This positioning attracts customers willing to invest in unique olfactory experiences that serve as personal statements rather than following mainstream trends.
