In brief
Margret Chola, in her 80s, embraces new styles, creating a heartwarming intergenerational bond that resonates globally.
In a remarkable story of style and connection, a grandmother from rural Zambia, Margret Chola, has unexpectedly become a prominent fashion icon and social media sensation. Known affectionately as "Legendary Glamma," Ms. Chola has captured the hearts of 225,000 followers on Instagram, thanks to her playful fashion images and vibrant outfits. At over 80 years old, Ms. Chola expresses a newfound joy in fashion, declaring to the BBC, "I feel different, I feel new and alive in these clothes, in a way that I’ve never felt before. I feel like I can conquer the world!" The inspiration behind this stylish venture stems from her granddaughter Diana Kaumba, a New York-based stylist, who launched the Granny Series in 2023 during a visit to her hometown in Zambia. The idea blossomed when Diana, reflecting on her father's love for well-dressed appearances, suggested her grandmother try on some of her carefully curated outfits. "I wasn’t doing anything at the time, so I just said: 'OK. If that’s what you want to do let’s do it - why not?'" Ms. Chola recalled. Their initial collaboration showcased Ms. Chola dressed in a silver pantsuit, elegantly blending high fashion with her rural surroundings. The vibrant backgrounds quintessentially illustrate her farm life, featuring rustic scenes of Zambian landscapes, which amplify the charm of her glamorous outfits. Diana describes her nervousness when posting the first image, only to discover it garnered 1,000 likes in mere minutes, confirming the world’s appetite for Ms. Chola's dazzling flair. Particularly notable was a shoot that saw Ms. Chola donned in a red Adidas dress, revealing her unexpected popularity. "It surprised me to hear that so many people around the world love me," she remarked, her exact age unknown due to the absence of a birth certificate. The styles embraced by Ms. Chola showcase a colorful mix of designs, accessories, and textures, reflecting her unique personality. Outfits have ranged from a layered red dress styled over a green American football jersey to a sparkling sequined top. She also blends in nostalgic pieces, like the beloved radio she carries everywhere, emphasizing her genuine lifestyle roots. Diana aims for the Granny Series to highlight the importance of appreciating older generations, emphasizing that memories shared are invaluable. The movement has prompted several other granddaughters to request Diana's styling services for their own grandmothers, who are between 70 and 96 years old. Margret Chola's newfound fame serves as an uplifting reminder that joy and stylishness know no age limits. She encourages others to live authentically, stating, "You can never change your past - but you can change your future." Her inspiring journey has not only strengthened the bond between her and Diana but also provided her with a sense of purpose and renewed vitality.
