Hakuna Matata is more than just a sensory experience; it is a philosophy, an invitation to live in the moment, celebrate the beauty of nature and approach life with a playful spirit. Imagine: the sun casts long shadows across the jungle floor and paradise lies before us. Hakuna Matata is an olfactory reminder of ourselves: that even in chaos, there is room for joy, wonder and the simple pleasures of life. At its heart is an ingredient rarely found in modern perfumery: banana. This unexpected note blends with the sweet warmth of honey, a sensual hint of musk, jasmine and a sensual orange blossom to leave a lasting impression of confident yet cheerful presence. Hakuna Matata is a gentle olfactory reminder to take life as it comes and find resilience in the here and now.
Hakuna Matata: Why here, why now?
Hakuna Matata – we all know the saying. In Swahili, it means “take it easy”.
In a world full of stress and uncertainty, it urges us to let go of our worries and appreciate the simple things. The expression has become established worldwide in various subcultures and communities – from travellers and adventurers to those seeking mindfulness and inner peace. It has become a mantra for anyone who wants to live life on their own terms, without being ground down by social pressure.
Gone Bananas
The banana – an ingredient that is almost absent from niche perfumery – forms the heart of this fragrance. Normally deep and rich in its scent landscape, we redefine what we associate with the scent of the fruit by blending it with lush jasmine, orange blossom, creamy honey and a hint of labdanum. With Hakuna Matata, we are, as always, entering unconventional territory. A fragrance that embodies 27 87 with its innovation: pushing boundaries and breaking new ground.
Resilience in letting go
Hakuna Matata is a bold and vibrant fragrance that defies convention. With a playful soul and a carefree heart, it celebrates everything that is unexpected and uncertain. ‘The current global situation can be overwhelming at times,’ says Romy Kowalewski, founder and creative director of 27 87. "As an antidote, I felt an instinctive need for simplicity, light-hearted presence and fundamental joy. ‘Practising optimism and mental resilience is more important now than ever. Hakuna Matata supports us in this.’
Hakuna Matata: Unfiltered
The central ingredient, banana, gives Hakuna Matata its unconventional character, while rich floral notes and sensual honey add a layer of sophistication. This modern fruity-floral honey-amber composition is enhanced by an abstract accord of three exclusive Givaudan captives – a truly contemporary approach to modern perfumery:
1. Sylkolide: A radiant and sensual musk fragrance used here in its highest concentration. It lends the composition a skin-like, gentle warmth and captures a velvety hint of raspberry from the top note to the background.
2. Tanaisone: An aromatic, slightly tart note with hints of absinthe and chrysanthemum leaves. It enhances the characteristic facets of banana peel and adds extra depth.
3. Dihydrofarnesol: A floral, dewy aldehyde with the light, radiant aura of jasmine and honeysuckle blossoms.
Hakuna Matata – more than just a catchphrase
Thanks in large part to Disney's 1994 classic ‘The Lion King,’ ‘Hakuna Matata’ has become a globally recognised expression for a carefree life. But this simple phrase has a meaning that goes far beyond its pop culture fame. It is rooted in East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, and is more than just a casual dismissal of problems. It is a cultural philosophy that emphasises resilience, optimism and the importance of living in the present moment. In Swahili, ‘Hakuna Matata’ is a greeting, a farewell or a general expression of goodwill. It conveys a sense of acceptance and contentment, recognising that life has its challenges but that we can focus on the positive.
