Grandma with chunky sunglasses becomes unlikely fashion icon

In a delightful twist of fate, a grandmother from rural Zambia has captured the hearts of many as an unexpected fashion icon. Margret Chola, affectionately known as 'Legendary Glamma,' is in her mid-80s and has gained a remarkable following of 225,000 on Instagram. Her vibrant and playful fashion sense has made her a sensation online. Margret expresses her joy, saying, '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 newfound fame comes from her granddaughter, Diana Kaumba, a stylist based in New York City. In 2023, Diana launched the Granny Series, a creative project that involves dressing Margret in stylish outfits and capturing stunning photographs of her. The idea sparked during Diana's visit to Zambia, where she wanted to honor her father's memory, a man who had a great sense of style. During her visit, Diana realized she had not worn many of her carefully chosen outfits, so she asked Margret, or 'Mbuya' as she is called in the Bemba language, if she would like to try them on. Margret, with her usual enthusiasm, replied, 'If that’s what you want to do let’s do it - why not? ' This playful exchange has blossomed into a beautiful relationship, with fashion serving as a bridge between the two generations. Diana often dresses Margret in eye-catching outfits, and they take photos in picturesque settings, such as their farm located just north of Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Margret is frequently seen in her glamorous attire, whether lounging on a stylish sofa or sitting elegantly on a wooden chair. The photos showcase her in a variety of outfits, from a silver pantsuit to a red Adidas dress adorned with chunky golden necklaces and a sparkling crown. Margret is amazed by the global response to her fashion journey, stating, 'It surprised me to hear that so many people around the world love me. ' The Granny Series gained significant traction in April 2024 when Diana shared a series of photos featuring Margret in a striking red dress, complete with bold accessories. The overwhelming support and love from people around the world have left Margret feeling cherished and appreciated. She reflects on her journey, saying, 'I didn’t know I could make such an impact at this age. ' Margret's style is a celebration of vibrant colors, unique textures, and bold accessories, showcasing her personality and zest for life. Diana describes her grandmother as having 'courage, grace - and nails every look. ' The Granny Series not only highlights Margret's fashion but also emphasizes the importance of family bonds and the joy of creating memories together. Diana hopes that their project will inspire others to recognize the value of older generations and the wisdom they bring. Margret's story is a testament to the idea that age is no barrier to style and self-expression. She encourages everyone to embrace their individuality and live life to the fullest, regardless of societal expectations. 'Do not write them off, love them just the same till the end because remember we will be just like them one day,' she advises. Through the Granny Series, Margret and Diana have not only created a fashion phenomenon but have also deepened their connection, allowing them to learn from each other's experiences and stories.