Paris-based Nabila Chemillier and her two sisters have developed a skincare line made in France and rooted in the Tunisian garden and their grandmother’s handmade skincare recipes.
What inspired you to launch L’ODAÏTÈS?
My own family. L’ODAÏTÈS began when my 2 sisters and I were discussing how to keep our grandmother’s memory alive. We grew up with her and she taught us various skills, from how to distill flowers, create confection balms, prepare essential oils, and more. When she passed away we decided to breathe a new life into her skincare routine and products. We thought that sharing this knowledge with the world would pay tribute to her and her great dedication.
Nabila’s morning route – Make-Up Remover, Replenishing Serum, and Intense Cream
What is your morning routine?
I wash my face with our soothing cleanser, the Pure Merveille Make-Up Remover, and then apply the Anti-Aging Intense Cream. In winter, I add a drop of our Replenishing Serum Elixir Bonheur.
What L’ODAÏTÈS product embodies Tunisia the most?
I would say all of them. The whole line carries the olfactory signature of neroli, the essential oil produced from orange blossoms. If I had to pick one, I would say Anti-Aging Intense Cream because it creates glowing skin, which reminds me of the sunlight of my homeland of Tunisia.
What positive impact do you have/aim to have in shaping Tunisia?
We truly want to bring awareness to what Tunisia has best to offer. Supporting organic farming and artisan work for us is tremendously important. Tunisians have great know-how in various fields, but the media still continues to talk about mass tourism.
What does Tunisia mean to you?
My native country with wonderful childhood memories.
Where is your favorite place to visit in Tunisia?
As a family, we’re obsessed with sunlight. Sunrise and sunset in Tunisia are priceless. We love the Mediterranean coast. The landscapes are breathtaking.
What is one thing every visitor to Tunisia should experience?
A walk in Sidi Bou Said and its narrow streets sounds a bit cliché. So I would say, go sit next to elderly people and ask them to tell you the story of their ancestors. And, you must not leave Tunisia without tasting “brik à l’oeuf,” or a donut from Sidi Bou Said or any other Tunisian specialty. Tunisian cuisine is one of the best in the world, the only issue is people haven’t heard about it. But they will eventually…
Who is a Tunisian you admire?
Leïla Menchari [the creator of Hermes’ window displays at 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré] is a great artist who succeeds extraordinarily well in staging the craft and the works of the craftsmen, all with a very unique and fine touch.
What do you wish the world knew about Tunisia?
The long and rich history of Tunisia since the Phoenicians.