Jennifer Abeyratne: The Paris-based stylist bridging worlds

Working from within the rivalrous labyrinth of Parisian fashion culture, where competition is as formidable as the couture, Jenn Abey (how most people know her) is steadily building her own legacy as a multivalent artist. The 27 year-old French-Sri Lankan creative is applying her bicultural upbringing to her work; telling stories through her selective pieces. From styling the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) campaign to becoming a trusted fashion confidante of renowned director Dexter Navy, Jenn is morphing fashion into a space where tradition and surrealism collide like trends and classic pieces. Dazed MENA speaks with the emerging artist on her roots, upbringing, accomplishments and next moves. 

Growing up in Paris while remaining tethered to her Sri Lankan roots, Jenn absorbed two visual languages: the intuitive swank of Parisian style and the prolific textile heritage of South Asia. “I grew up between two worlds and cultures, each rich in visual storytelling,” Jenn explains to Dazed MENA. “Paris, where style feels instinctual, and South Asia, where fabrics are deeply rooted in everyday life. This blend naturally shaped my inspirations.” Her fashion journey began parochially; a form of self-expression—though soon, she recognised the potential in diffusing the syncretic sensibility of her style. “I’ve always loved styling myself, drawing from both influences, and initially focused only on my own look,” Jenn tells us. “Over time, though, I began to see the potential in blending my universe with others, which led me to pursue styling as a way to merge these distinct visual worlds.”

What began as a talent for styling herself has bloomed into a full-fledged career. Jenn is now sought out for her layered aestheticism, reigning in A-list clients to share in her vision. “A defining moment in my career could be the shift from styling only for myself to collaborating on a high-profile project, like working with A$AP Rocky,” Jenn shares. “This experience likely deepened my passion for merging personal style with other creative visions, pushing me to create layered aesthetics that resonate widely.”

Above all, Jenn wants to tell stories through the pieces she selects. She wants people to embrace the haphazard dichotomy of opposing styles and cultures; to have faith in the value of dyadic aesthetics. “I hope to drive a change that encourages people to embrace a more layered, multicultural approach to style,” Jenn envisions. “Fashion that tells a story, merging diverse influences into something authentic and visually striking.” Her layered silhouettes revel in this melding of opposites—tulle tutus underneath slouchy hoodies, on top of sweatpants—texture upon distressed texture. “My work incorporates traditional fabrics, patterns and motifs into contemporary designs, creating a dialogue between the past and present,” Jenn expounds. “I want to create increasingly surreal silhouettes that transport viewers into a cinematic universe, reshaping perceptions of fashion through bold, imaginative designs.”

Her appetite for cultural plurality is unmistakable in her work. Whether it’s the drapey forms of Sri Lankan textiles or the feminine pull of pearly frill and folly, there’s a devotion to streetwear that whispers through all her styled forms. “My creative process is fuelled by a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and their visual languages,” Jenn states. “I draw inspiration from exploring different environments, engaging with local art and fashion, and immersing myself in cultural narratives. A passion for storytelling and collaboration also sparks new ideas, enriching my work.”

Now venturing into design with her first collaboration for a Japanese brand—“I’m very excited as it’s my first time designing!”—Jenn is on a trajectory that feels limitless. Though her dreams for the industry lay in fostering more opportunities for the creatives who fuel her work most: “I would love to see more empowerment towards emerging artists and designers, creating a dynamic landscape where diverse voices and perspectives are amplified and appreciated.”