Designer Lili Chemla Makes A Case For Wearing Cozy Basics 24/7

It all started with Lili Chemla’s frustration with trying to find the perfect t-shirt. When she found herself displeased with what was out there (thus, cutting up whatever she did find), she decided it was time to have a try at making her own. “I made my own t-shirt sample and realized I was wearing it all the time. Then, my sisters and friends kept trying to steal it. I knew I was onto something,” she says. And just like that Liana, Chemla’s line of luxury basics, was born.

What started as a line of tees and hosiery has now expanded into a full collection of elevated, yet comfy, '70s-inspired wardrobe staples, where shimmery striped nylon socks pair with velvet hoodie-and-sweatpant sets, scalloped mock-neck tops, and mesh-paneled pants.

Her collection speaks to those who need their outfit to transition from day to night, but who refuse to sacrifice feeling good for looking good. “That’s where the elevated element comes into play,” explains Chemla. “It’s not a secret that everyone loves to be comfortable, and I think people have gotten tired of sacrificing their comfort for style.”

While the Liana girl is someone who’s busy and, as such, spends her days running from place to place, according to Chemla, there’s a little bit of Liana in all of us. “Although we definitely do fall into a category, it's hard to generalize us to one type of girl,” says Chemla. “Being a basics company, we want all ranges of people and ages to feel comfortable in our clothes. But, to be more specific, the Liana girl is one who puts comfort before anything else, and needs a cute pair of socks to spice up an outfit.”

But what’s next, long after the winter’s chill (and our desire to stay cozy and warm inside) has gone, for the brand? It seems that spring will be just as comforting. “Our number one rule is to stay cozy, but to look good doing it. I’m sure we’ll continue to expand into other categories—like little booty shorts for spring—but if it's not comfortable, you’re not seeing it from us,” says Chemla.

Currently, prices range from $15 for a pair of socks up to $250 for a teddy bear-like faux sherpa hoodie (a piece we see ourselves living in this winter). Take a closer look at the Liana fall collection, below, and head on over to the website to shop it now.

Liana, Plush Zip in Hunter, $220, available at Liana.

Liana, Plush Zip in White, $220, available at Liana.

Liana, Racer Top in White, $95, available at Liana.

Liana, Plush Pocket Tee in Rose, $110, available at Liana.

Liana, The Cut, available soon at Liana.

Liana, Flock Hoodie, $250, available at Liana.

Liana, Multishine, $80, available at Liana.

Liana, The Row, available soon at Liana.

Liana, Bowling Tee, $120, available at Liana.

Liana, The Ladder Tank, available soon at Liana.

Liana, The N.B.B., available soon at Liana.

Liana, The Row Mock, $115, available at Liana.

Liana, The Line White Tee, available soon at Liana.

Liana, The Baby Rib, available soon at Liana.

Liana, The Oh Snap Tee, available soon at Liana.