Legendary Glamma: How an 80s Grandma from Rural Zambia Became a Global Fashion Icon
Legendary Glamma: A rural grandmother from Zambia has taken the internet by storm, redefining age and fashion with her bold and stylish looks. Margret Chola, affectionately known as “Legendary Glamma,” has captured the hearts of over 225,000 Instagram followers with her vibrant and eclectic fashion photography.
From Farm Life to Fashion Stardom
Margret Chola, in her mid-80s, resides in the village of 10 Miles, near Lusaka. Her transformation into a fashion icon began in 2023 when her granddaughter, New York-based stylist Diana Kaumba, proposed a playful photoshoot during a family visit. Ms. Kaumba, inspired by her father’s impeccable style, encouraged her grandmother to try on her high-fashion outfits.
Margret’s first outfit—a shimmering silver pantsuit—set the tone for what would become a global sensation. “I feel like I can conquer the world in these clothes,” Margret shared, reflecting on the joy and confidence her new look brought her.
The Granny Series: A Fashion Revolution
The project, dubbed the Granny Series, features Margret dressed in extravagant ensembles styled by Diana. Set against the rustic backdrop of her rural farm, Margret’s striking photos blend glamour with authenticity. Whether lounging on a leather sofa amidst maize crops or posing with a goat adorned in pearls, her images tell a story of elegance and resilience.
One standout look celebrated Zambia’s independence with a green jersey and layered red dress styled in the national flag’s colors. Another unforgettable outfit featured jeans, a graphic T-shirt with her image, and a blonde wig—Margret’s personal favorite.
Social Media Stardom
When Diana posted the first photo, it garnered over 1,000 likes in minutes. By April 2024, the Granny Series went viral, with Margret modeling a red Adidas dress paired with golden necklaces and a jeweled crown. “It surprised me to hear that so many people around the world love me,” Margret said.
The series not only catapulted Margret to international fame but also created a new bond between the grandmother and granddaughter. Diana’s maximalist-chic aesthetic—emphasizing bold colors, oversized accessories, and clashing patterns—perfectly complements Margret’s charisma.
A Message Beyond Fashion
Margret’s photoshoots often include symbolic elements like her beloved radio, a wooden “ibende” stick used for pounding grains, or a charcoal brazier—a nod to Zambia’s power challenges. These touches highlight her life story and resonate deeply with audiences.
Her journey, from leaving school at 12 to escaping an early marriage, reflects a life filled with challenges. Yet today, Margret’s fame brings her joy and purpose. “I wake up knowing that people around the world love to see me,” she says, embracing her unexpected global influence.
Margret Chola is a living testament to the power of reinvention, proving that age is no barrier to creativity or impact.
