Fashion often serves as a bridge between generations, and no one has artistically infused this connection better than Diana Kaumba. The Zambian-born, New York-based stylist transformed her grandmother, Margret Chola—affectionately known as “The Legendary Glamma”—into an international fashion icon through a series of captivating, stylish editorials. This heartfelt project not only celebrated ageless elegance but also propelled Diana into the global spotlight!
In April 2024, Diana after sharing a photo of her grandmother on her Instagram @TheVintagePoint_ with the caption “Guys my Grandma said we gonna miss her when she dies,
I told her I’m blessed to even have her Now and yes I will miss playing dress up on you and that’s why I love doing it, these will be memories for me.. I Love you MBUYA”
It quickly captured the attention of people worldwide. The post went viral, sparking the creation of the Instagram account @legendary_glamma. Through this account, Margret’s fashion journey unfolds, featuring her in a mix of high-fashion looks and designs that merge modern styles with rich Zambian cultural influences.
“Something comes alive in her, she’s like a super hero wearing her cape” -Diana Kaumba
Diana’s innovative approach has landed her features from esteemed publications such as Your Luxury Africa and Glamour South Africa, and tv appearances on talk shows like Good Morning America and The Tamron Hall Show, where she shared the heartwarming story behind “The Granny Series.
Adding to her growing list of media features, Diana is the first guest on the highly anticipated return of Modern Stitches Live!, a YouTube series produced by Modern Stitches Magazine. The show, hosted by founder and publisher Ashley Scarboro, shines a light on individuals of color making strides in the fashion industry. After a hiatus, Modern Stitches Live! is back, and Diana’s appearance kicked off this exciting new chapter, where she shared deeper insights into her creative process and the cultural significance of her work.
This March during Women’s History Month, Dee sat down with our Founder, Ashley Scarboro to lay out the details of her fashion fame and the new iconic stylish “Grandma Chola” excitement!
When you meet someone like Diana Kauma, that realization clicks instantly. Her story isn’t solely about fashion—it’s about resilience, heritage, and an unwavering self-belief that opens doors long before the rest of the world catches on.
I had the pleasure of attending Modern Stitches Live and the setting couldn’t have been more fitting: Bushwick, Brooklyn, where creativity hums through the walls like electricity. We gathered in a cozy corner of a chic space, framed by a lush green wall and velvet green chairs that felt straight out of a Ralph Lauren campaign. It was vintage charm meets modern power—perfectly aligned with the woman we were there to celebrate.
Ashley looked effortlessly sharp in her denim barrel jeans speckled with stars, a structured navy blazer, and metallic mules that added the perfect shimmer. Across from her, Dee radiated elegance in all black, her look punctuated by bold gold accessories including her shades, gold linked chain and Schiaparelli-inspired rings that caught the light—and everyone’s attention—each time her hands moved.
But what struck me most wasn’t the clothes (though, let’s be clear, both ladies ate down!). It was Dee’s energy. Cool as a cucumber, she answered each question with confidence and ease. Every leg cross, every subtle gesture spoke volumes. She’s the kind of person who knows exactly who she is—and carries it without needing to prove anything.
Dee’s journey is a testament to the power of not waiting for permission. Raised with a deep love for fashion and family, her earliest memories are of watching her late father meticulously dress—an act that would unknowingly shape her own stylistic eye. Her Zambian heritage plays a pivotal role in defining her identity, but it was one viral moment that placed her rightfully into the spotlight: the now-famous photos featuring her grandmother.
What could have been just another fleeting moment of internet fame became something far more meaningful—it brought them closer, bridging continents and generations. Every time Dee travels to Zambia, she makes it a point to visit her grandmother. And when back in New York, their bond continues, with regular conversations that transcend distance. There’s something grounding in that—a reminder that the glitz of going viral means nothing without roots and relationships to keep you centered.
During Women’s History Month, we are reminded of the truth time and again. Women—whether in fashion, art, or everyday life—have long been the architects of culture, often without immediate recognition. They create, nurture, and build, all while history takes its time catching up to their brilliance. This Women’s History Month, Dee’s story feels especially relevant. It reflects the countless women—past and present—who quietly shape history through creativity, perseverance, and love, even when the world is slow to recognize their brilliance.
If there’s one lesson to take away from Diana, it’s this: belief in yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential. Her story shows that when you move with purpose and operate from a place of conviction, you’re unstoppable. No algorithms, no gatekeepers, no industry trends can dictate your path when you’ve already decided you’re enough.
Beyond the fashion, beyond the viral fame, what stayed with me most after that afternoon in Bushwick was how effortlessly she embodies something we all need a little more of: faith in yourself, and the courage to step boldly into your own story.
