Jakara Jackson, previously known as Mara Sadè, has detailed the creative influences behind her unique in-ring attire, especially how the pop icons of the 1990s shape her look. Discussing her approach to ring gear, Jackson shared how her personal style blends inspiration from music legends like TLC, Janet Jackson, and Aaliyah, revealing the ways her wardrobe choices reflect her identity as a performer and an artist—solidifying
“Jakara Jackson inspired ring gear and pop star style”
as her signature approach.
Drawing Inspiration from 1990s Music Icons
At the WWE NXT Stand & Deliver event, Sadè captivated fans with a Las Vegas showgirl-inspired entrance, complete with a dramatic green-feather headdress. However, while her outfits vary, Jackson says music remains the foundation for most of her ring gear concepts. She credits groups such as TLC and artists like Aaliyah for influencing her style, while Janet Jackson stands out as an especially important muse. Jackson identifies with the empowerment these performers project, weaving their aesthetic and attitudes into her wrestling persona.
Music is a big part of my inspiration,
—Mara Sadè
Discussing the creation of her outfits, Jackson explained that she looks for trends that aren’t common in wrestling fashion. Often, she experiments to set herself apart in the ring by blending classic influences with modern flair. She notes that while items like chaps are seen regularly in wrestling, her take features joggers, baggy pants, and urban-inspired looks. This approach allows her to embrace both comfort and style while showcasing her personality.
I guess when it came to my pants, for example, I was definitely looking at the landscape to see what was different, what people weren’t doing,
—Mara Sadè
I was like I don’t see joggers. Yes, you see chaps, but of course we’re going to show a little skin, but I was just inspired by the baggy look with pockets and that urban type of vibe. And then of course, you want to show off your best assets, so the rest fell into place.
—Mara Sadè
Bold Moves in Free Agency and Personal Branding
Following her departure from WWE NXT, Mara Sadè has begun a new chapter as a free agent, already scheduling appearances on the independent wrestling scene. In a recently released vignette, she described herself as
“the artist, the muse, and the auteur,”
emphasizing a renewed focus on her creativity and individuality as she embarks on this next phase of her career.
the artist, the muse, and the auteur.
—Mara Sadè
When asked about what lies ahead for her fans, Sadè promised that her presentation—and especially her ring gear—will continue to evolve and stand out. She stressed her commitment to pushing herself both in terms of fashion and athletic performance, expressing fierce determination to thrive in all aspects of her career.
When I tell you I’m hungry, I’m starving, like I said in my vignette, I’m not here to prove anything to anybody,
—Mara Sadè
I’m here to prove to myself that I can do, you know what I’m saying? Can do the most and be the best at this. Because anything I do, I’m going to put my all into. Point blank period, I’m not ever going to sleep on myself. So just expect big things from your girl, whether it’s in the fashion department, in the ring or outside. I’m out here.
—Mara Sadè
Hair Transformations Reflecting New Beginnings
In addition to her memorable outfits, fans have long associated Sadè with her striking ginger hair, which helped her stand out during her run with WWE NXT. As she starts her journey as a free agent, she has opted for blonde hair, signaling a fresh page in her professional story. This shift highlights her belief in reinvention, relying on intuition and new influences, including a Miami-based wig maker she credited with bringing her vision to life.
The ginger was definitely a fave. I definitely believe it helped me pop out or stand out, but like I said, going into this new chapter, I just wanted a fresh start,
—Mara Sadè
I wanted to just reinvent myself and to be honest, when we feel like we’re transitioning, we change our hair. The blonde was just inspired by the fact that I saw this look. I was inspired online. I have this really amazing wig maker down in Miami. She literally has been the one to hook up the look since the jump. I saw this beautiful wig and it just spoke to me. I literally go off my intuition with a lot of things and like that just it was speaking to me. It felt right, so blonde it is.
—Mara Sadè
As Jakara Jackson, Sadè continues to blend musical inspiration, a commitment to standing out, and a bold willingness to reinvent herself. The presence of pop legacy icons such as TLC, Janet Jackson, and Aaliyah in her stylistic choices enriches her personal brand, while her transition to free agency promises exciting developments in both her wardrobe and her wrestling career.
