Margret Chola, affectionately known as "Legendary Glamma," captures the essence of personal style and familial bonds, inspiring individuals across generations.
**The Rise of 'Legendary Glamma': Zambia's Unexpected Fashion Star**
**The Rise of 'Legendary Glamma': Zambia's Unexpected Fashion Star**
A Zambian grandmother gains fame as a fashion icon and internet sensation through a series of playful outfit exchanges with her stylist granddaughter.
In rural Zambia, an 84-year-old grandmother named Margret Chola has unexpectedly found herself catapulted into the limelight as an internet sensation and fashion icon. Known as "Legendary Glamma," her striking outfit photos, taken by her granddaughter Diana Kaumba, have garnered more than 225,000 followers on Instagram. The basis of this newfound fame lies in the Granny Series, a concept devised by Kaumba during a visit to Zambia to commemorate the anniversary of her father's death. Inspired by her father's fashion sense, Kaumba asked her grandmother if she'd like to try on some of her curated clothing, prompting an inspiring collaboration that has delighted audiences worldwide.
"I feel different, I feel new and alive in these clothes," Chola expressed when discussing her experience. This sentiment embodies the new lease on life that her fashion journey has provided her. From vibrant outfits reflecting Zambian independence to trendy pieces like a striking silver pantsuit, Chola's shoots juxtapose high-fashion glamor with the heart of rural life, where she often poses amid local scenery like corrugated iron roofs and mango trees.
The series took off in April 2023 when Chola was photographed in a red Adidas dress, adorned with chunky necklaces and a sparkling crown. Thus began an amplified appreciation for her joyful personal style, marked by bold colors and eclectic patterns. The elderly fashionista’s outfits, accessorized with oversized hats, bangles, and even playful props like goats, showcase her unique personality and life experiences.
Kaumba, a stylist based in New York, aims to celebrate older generations through this platform, emphasizing that they can still contribute to society in remarkable ways. Her heartfelt mission also uplifts her grandmother, who conveys wisdom through her journey. Having faced significant challenges, including leaving school at a young age and navigating a difficult marriage, Chola's story resonates with many, providing hope and inspiration.
Reflecting on this impactful experience, Chola shares her desire for others to live unapologetically and learn from their past mistakes. Her newfound fame has not only strengthened the bond between her and Kaumba, unveiling stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity, but has also sparked a flurry of similar projects for other grandmothers within their community.
As Chola embraces her unexpected notoriety, she stands as a beacon of self-expression, proving that age is no barrier to style or global visibility. Her vibrant persona reminds people that every individual has stories worth sharing and that it’s never too late to step into the spotlight.
