Grandma with Chunky Sunglasses Becomes Unlikely Fashion Icon
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Loading... - Zahra Ayuma
- 18 Nov 2024
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In a heartwarming story from rural Zambia, an 80-something grandmother named Margret Chola has captured the hearts of many and become an internet sensation, known as "Legendary Glamma." This transformation into a style icon began when she agreed to swap outfits with her fashionista granddaughter, Diana Kaumba, who is based in New York City. The duo's playful fashion project has garnered an impressive following of 225,000 on Instagram, showcasing striking photographs that blend high fashion with the rustic charm of their rural surroundings.
The inspiration for the Granny Series came during a visit by Kaumba to Zambia, marking the second anniversary of her father's death. Her father, who had a keen sense of style, inspired her passion for fashion. With a collection of carefully curated outfits that she hadn’t worn, Kaumba asked her grandmother, affectionately called "Mbuya" in the Bemba language, if she would like to try them on. Mbuya, who was open to the idea, remarked, "You will miss me when I die, and at least this way you will be remembering me."
The first photoshoot featured Mbuya in a silver pantsuit, and Kaumba in her grandmother's traditional attire, the "chitenge." The concept was to dress Mbuya in high fashion and capture her in her natural habitat—a farm in the village of 10 Miles, just north of Lusaka. The juxtaposition of glamorous outfits against the backdrop of ploughed fields, mango trees, and rustic buildings created a unique visual narrative.
When Kaumba posted the first photo, she was nervous but was overwhelmed by the immediate positive response, receiving 1,000 likes within just ten minutes. The series gained significant traction in April 2024, particularly after Mbuya was photographed in a striking red Adidas dress, adorned with chunky golden necklaces and a sparkling crown. "It surprised me to hear that so many people around the world love me," Mbuya expressed, reflecting on her newfound fame.
Mbuya's outfits are a vibrant mix of colors, textures, and styles, showcasing her personality and the cultural richness of Zambia. From a green American football jersey paired with a layered frilly red dress to a sequined top with bold accessories, each look is a celebration of maximalist-chic aesthetics. Mbuya's love for accessories shines through, with oversized sunglasses, hats, and an array of jewelry that reflect her playful spirit.
One particularly memorable scene features Mbuya posing with a goat adorned in her beloved pearls, highlighting the fun and whimsical nature of the series. Other photographs capture her with cherished items from her daily life, such as a radio she carries everywhere, a traditional wooden stick used for pounding grains, and a charcoal brazier, symbolizing her connection to Zambian culture.
Kaumba hopes that the Granny Series will challenge societal perceptions of older individuals, emphasizing that they still have much to offer. "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. The project has resonated with many, leading to Kaumba being hired by other granddaughters to style their grandmothers, further spreading the message of love and appreciation for the elderly.
For Mbuya, this unexpected fame has brought a renewed sense of purpose. "I’m now able to wake up with a purpose knowing that people around the world love to see me," she shares. Through this journey, the bond between grandmother and granddaughter has deepened, allowing Kaumba to learn more about Mbuya's challenging past, including her early marriage and struggles with alcohol.
In a world that often overlooks the elderly, Margret Chola's story serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty of self-expression and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. Her journey from a rural grandmother to a global fashion icon is not just about style; it’s about resilience, love, and the joy of living life to the fullest.
