French-American designer Lili Chemla is the founder of Los Angeles-based loungewear label LESET.
Designed to take you through life’s adventures with a core edit of modular designs suited to the multifaceted lives of the modern woman, Lili dresses her customer in mix and match sets that boast an elegant ease that can be worn forever.
Perfect for frequent flyers – it was Lili’s years of travelling from a young age and her time split between NYC, LA and Paris that inspired her brand. We got the intel on her trips that left their mark, her must-have travel picks and destinations on her bucket list.
Paris with my family. My dad grew up there and experiencing the city through his eyes had a profound impact. It will always feel like a second home.
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
Egypt was like nothing I had ever experienced before. We explored so many different cities in such a short amount of time – each place was a unique experience. The most memorable part to me was visiting the Siwa Oasis, swimming in the fresh waterholes and going dune surfing, forever be etched in my top three memories.
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Where or what is your escape?
My escape is upstate New York in the fall. I went to school there and there’s something so calming about it. It’s the ultimate respite.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
Don’t take any trip for granted. There’s always an experience or memory to be made from stepping out of your comfort zone.
If I could go anywhere tomorrow I’d go to:
Bar De La Croix Rouge in Paris. It is home to my favorite sandwich in the world and there’s nothing I love more than sitting outside and people watching. My happy place.
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How would you spend your ideal afternoon in your home city?
My ideal afternoon in New York is walking around with no particular plan. You never know who you will run into, what gallery has an opening, or what new dinner spot you’ll stumble upon.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
Relaxing is the most luxurious way to spend a holiday. While I love exploring new cities, there is nothing more rejuvenating than a vacation where you can actually reset. Sign me up for a week of swimming, reading, sleeping and eating delicious local food.
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Friends are my ultimate travel resource. Nothing beats some good word of mouth suggestions.
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – who would it be?
My grandfather Pino. He passed away when I was young and we were always kindred spirits. Funnily enough, he also had a clothing line. To be able to ask him more about his personal life and also share stories about our professional journeys would be incredible.
How do you recover from jet lag?
Power through! I try not to sleep when I arrive so I am sufficiently exhausted by the time it’s bedtime. It’s the only way to get acclimated to the right time zone.
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What’s your in-flight beauty routine?
Loaded question! I always have my Bioderma makeup remover pads with me. After that I prioritise hydration. The Dr. Loretta Intense Replenishing Serum and Biologique Research Masque Vernix are my go-tos. If I’m really feeling dehydrated, I’ll use the Biodance Sleep Mask and then wake up and apply the Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
If I didn’t already have a book on me, I would head to the nearest newsstand and buy an easy page turner.
Favourite hotel?
Le Meurice! They welcome you in as if you’ve arrived home. The food and service are incredible and the location is unbeatable.
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Favourite airline?
Delta. I’ve had the least amount of logistical issues, flights are rarely delayed or canceled. I also find that their seats are the most comfortable.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Dijon. I could listen to his music for hours. There is something extra soothing about it for travel days.
What are your must-have travel picks?
The LESET Lauren set. Works for the plane and all your destination needs. The LESET Pointelle tank – it instantly elevates any outfit. Medicube Age-Booster Pro is the only beauty tool you need to travel with. It is a 6-in-one and has everything from micro needing to micro current and red light. Apple Airpods – I have a playlist on at all times. Comme Ci Cashmere Socks – the perfect sock. Hydrogen Water Bottle – a friend introduced it to me and now I am obsessed.
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Where next?
I have always wanted to go to Australia, it is the only continent I haven’t visited yet.
FIRST THING THAT COMES TO MIND…
Chapstick.
Packing: roll or fold?
Fold!
Inflight book or inflight film?
Inflight sleep. The whole trip. Without fail.
Music or podcasts?
Music.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
Finally responding to the unopened emails that have been sitting in your mailbox for too long.
Holiday tipple of choice?
I’m more of a tea girl than a tipple girl.
Bucket list top destination?
Grand Canyon!
Best shopping gem found abroad and where?
My new water bottle holder. I found it at Brigitte Tanaka in Paris. I fell in love with the store!
Beach or City?
Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat?
Crepe with Nutella!
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Any Questions or Tips to add?