Margaret Chola, an 85-year-old woman from rural Zambia, has become an unlikely global fashion icon, thanks to her bold and colorful style showcased on Instagram.
Her transformation began when her granddaughter, New York-based stylist Diana Kaumba, dressed her in high-fashion outfits during a visit to Zambia.
What started as playful dress-up sessions has turned into a worldwide sensation known as the “Granny Series.” Since April 2024, when Ms. Kaumba shared a captivating photo series of her grandmother online, Margaret Chola has amassed over 105,000 followers on Instagram under the account “Legendary Glamma.”
Her unique outfits range from bold color palettes inspired by the Zambian flag to whimsical combinations like blonde wigs paired with jeans and graphic T-shirts. See more of her in this video from TDG👇
Margaret’s favorite outfit—a graphic tee with her image, jeans, and a blonde wig—perfectly captures the playful maximalist-chic aesthetic that has endeared her to fans. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “I had never worn jeans or a wig before, so I was happy—and I was dancing.”
Her granddaughter describes her as having “courage, grace, and the ability to nail every look.”
Margaret Chola’s new fame goes beyond fashion. She describes feeling “alive and renewed” in her stylish wardrobe. “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,” she shared in an interview with the BBC. Her rise to fame has brought her joy, confidence, and a platform to inspire others. “It surprised me to hear that so many people around the world love me,” Ms Chola says.
Through her posts, Ms. Chola shares profound life lessons, encouraging people to embrace self-expression and let go of societal judgments. “Always forgive yourself for whatever mistakes you made. You can never change your past, but you can change your future,” she advises.
The success of the Granny Series has sparked a growing trend. Inspired by Ms. Chola’s boldness, four granddaughters, aged between 70 and 96, have hired Diana Kaumba to style their grandmothers in similar modern, eclectic looks.
Margaret Chola’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to discover new passions, redefine oneself, and inspire others.
Her vibrant style, confidence, and wisdom make her not just a fashion icon, but a symbol of courage and self-expression for people of all ages.
