The world of social media, including Instagram, is in constant evolution, and keeping updated on the latest Instagram trends is essential for brands and businesses. 

As we approach 2023, there are several emerging trends on the platform that require brands' attention. 

These trends include the increasing popularity of augmented reality (AR) filters and the significance of authenticity and transparency in content. 

These are some of the nine top Instagram trends to watch in 2023 that brands and businesses should observe. 

By adjusting their strategies accordingly and paying attention to these trends, businesses can use the platform effectively to connect with their audience and succeed on Instagram.

1. The Rise of Augmented Reality (AR) Filters

One of the biggest Instagram trends to watch in 2023 is the increasing popularity of augmented reality (AR) filters. 

These filters allow users to create unique, interactive experiences that engage their followers on a whole new level. 

But it's not just individual users who are using AR filters; brands are also jumping on board and creating their own filters to promote their products or services.

Custom AR Filters for Brands

As the popularity of AR filters continues to grow, more and more brands are investing in custom filters that promote their products or services. 

Whether it's a makeup brand creating a filter that allows users to try on different shades of lipstick or a clothing brand using a filter to showcase their latest collection, AR filters offer a fun and engaging way for brands to connect with their audience.

One of the most exciting aspects of custom AR filters is the potential for them to go viral.

If a brand creates a filter that is particularly fun or unique, users are likely to share it with their followers, increasing the brand's reach and visibility. 

This can be especially beneficial for smaller brands that are looking to grow their audience.

Interactive AR Experiences for Users

In addition to creating their own filters, brands are also starting to create interactive AR experiences for their followers. 

For example, a restaurant might create an AR filter that shows users what their menu items look like in real life, or a travel brand might create an AR experience that allows users to "visit" different destinations around the world. 

These types of interactive experiences are not only fun, but they also give followers a deeper connection to the brand.

Interactive AR experiences can also be used to educate users about a brand's products or services. 

For example, a car manufacturer might create an AR experience that allows users to explore the features of their latest model, or a tech company might create an AR experience that demonstrates how their product works. 

These types of experiences can be especially useful for brands that are trying to explain complex concepts or products.

Overall, the rise of AR filters and interactive experiences represents a major shift in the way that brands are using social media to connect with their audience. 

By creating fun and engaging content that allows users to interact with their brand in new ways, brands can build stronger relationships with their followers and increase their visibility on social media.

2. The Evolution of Instagram Shopping

Instagram has been steadily evolving its shopping features over the past few years, and we can expect even more changes in 2023. 

With over a billion active users on the platform, Instagram has become a major player in the world of e-commerce, and brands are taking notice.

One of the biggest changes we can expect to see is even more seamless in-app purchasing. 

Instagram is already testing a feature that allows users to complete a purchase without ever leaving the app, and this trend is likely to continue in 2023. 

This means that brands will need to prioritize creating compelling shopping experiences within the app itself to encourage users to make purchases on the spot.

But what does this mean for the future of shopping? 

For one, it means that consumers will have even more options when it comes to buying products online. 

With the ability to purchase items directly from the app, users will be able to shop more efficiently and conveniently than ever before.

Another trend in Instagram shopping is the use of shoppable user-generated content (UGC). 

By encouraging their followers to share photos of themselves with a brand's products and then making those photos shoppable, brands can create a powerful marketing tool that not only promotes their products but also showcases real people using and enjoying them.

UGC has become increasingly popular in recent years, as consumers are more likely to trust the opinions of their peers than traditional advertising. 

By leveraging the power of UGC, brands can create a sense of authenticity and trust that is difficult to achieve through other means.

Overall, the evolution of Instagram shopping is an exciting development for both consumers and brands. 

With new features and trends emerging all the time, it's clear that Instagram will continue to be a major force in the world of e-commerce for years to come.

3. The Growth of Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels, the platform's answer to TikTok, has been steadily growing in popularity since its launch in 2020. 

In 2023, we can expect to see even more brands jumping on board and utilizing Reels as part of their marketing strategy.

Reels for Business Promotion

Brands can use Reels to showcase their products or services in an engaging and entertaining way. 

Reels offer a unique opportunity to showcase a brand's personality and connect with their audience on a more personal level.

ALSO READ: What are Instagram Reels?

For example, a clothing brand can create a Reel featuring models wearing their latest collection while dancing to a popular song. 

This not only showcases the brand's clothing but also creates a fun and relatable experience for the audience.

Similarly, a restaurant can create a Reel showcasing their chefs preparing their signature dishes while adding a humorous twist to the video. 

This not only highlights the restaurant's food but also showcases the brand's personality and sense of humor.

Reels Algorithm and Discoverability

Like TikTok, Instagram Reels has its own algorithm that determines which videos are shown to users. 

Brands that are able to create engaging Reels that are favored by the algorithm will see increased discoverability and engagement on the platform.

To increase the chances of their Reels being favored by the algorithm, brands can use popular songs, hashtags, and participate in trending challenges. 

This will increase the visibility of their Reels and increase the chances of them being seen by a wider audience.

Furthermore, brands can collaborate with popular influencers and creators to create Reels that will be shared with their followers. 

This will not only increase the discoverability of the brand but also increase the credibility of their products or services.

Hence, Instagram Reels has become an important tool for brands to connect with their audience and increase their visibility on the platform. 

By creating engaging and entertaining Reels, brands can showcase their personality and products, and increase their discoverability on the platform.

4. The Expansion of Instagram Guides

Instagram Guides, a feature that allows users to create curated collections of content, launched in 2020. 

In 2023, we can expect to see even more growth and expansion of this feature.

Guides for Influencers and Creators

Influencers and creators have been using Instagram Guides to showcase their favorite products, travel destinations, or even their own personal journey. 

These Guides offer a unique way for influencers and creators to connect with their followers and offer more value beyond just sponsored content.

For instance, a travel influencer could create a Guide that features their favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations, complete with insider tips and recommendations for where to eat, stay, and explore. 

This type of Guide would be incredibly valuable to their followers who are looking for unique travel experiences.

Similarly, a beauty influencer could create a Guide that features their favorite skincare products for achieving a flawless complexion. 

They could include detailed descriptions of each product, as well as tips for how to use them effectively.

By creating Guides that offer real value to their followers, influencers and creators can strengthen their relationships with their audience and build a more engaged community.

Guides for Brands and Businesses

Brands and businesses have also been using Instagram Guides to curate content that showcases their products or services in a new and interesting way. 

ALSO READ: 22 Trending Hashtags on Instagram for Brand Visibility

From product tutorials to behind-the-scenes looks at the brand's process, Guides offer a new way for brands to engage with their audience and showcase their expertise.

For example, a fashion brand could create a Guide that features their latest collection, complete with styling tips and recommendations for how to wear each piece. 

This type of Guide would not only showcase the brand's products, but also offer real value to their followers who are looking for fashion inspiration.

Similarly, a food brand could create a Guide that features their best recipes, complete with step-by-step instructions and photos of the finished dishes. 

This type of Guide would not only showcase the brand's products, but also offer real value to their followers who are looking for meal inspiration.

By creating Guides that offer real value to their audience, brands and businesses can strengthen their relationships with their customers and build a more engaged community.

Hence, Instagram Guides offer a unique way for influencers, creators, brands, and businesses to connect with their audience and offer real value beyond just sponsored content. 

As this feature continues to grow and expand, we can expect to see even more creative and innovative uses of Guides in the future.

5. The Importance of Authenticity and Transparency

As users become more savvy and discerning about the content they consume on social media, authenticity and transparency will become even more important for brands and influencers alike. 

In a world where fake news and false information are rampant, people are craving authenticity and transparency from the brands and individuals they follow.

Behind-the-Scenes Content

One way that brands and influencers can showcase their authenticity and transparency is by sharing behind-the-scenes content. 

This can include everything from the behind-the-scenes of a photoshoot to a glimpse into a day in the life of the brand's founder. 

By giving followers a peek behind the curtain, brands and influencers can build trust and credibility with their audience. 

When people see the hard work and dedication that goes into creating content and building a brand, they are more likely to feel connected to that brand and to support it.

For example, a fashion brand might share behind-the-scenes footage of a photoshoot, showing the models getting ready, the photographers setting up their equipment, and the creative team brainstorming ideas. 

This type of content can give followers a sense of the brand's personality and style, and can help them feel like they are part of the creative process.

Real-Time Engagement with Followers

Authenticity and transparency also mean responding to followers in real-time. 

Brands and influencers that are able to engage with their audience on a personal level will build a deeper connection and earn greater loyalty from their followers. 

This means responding to comments and messages promptly, and showing genuine interest in what followers have to say.

For example, a beauty influencer might host a live Q&A session on Instagram, answering questions from followers in real-time. 

By engaging with followers in this way, the influencer can build a sense of community and establish themselves as an authority in their niche.

Overall, authenticity and transparency are essential for building trust and credibility on social media. 

By sharing behind-the-scenes content and engaging with followers in real-time, brands and influencers can create a loyal and engaged following that will support them for years to come.

6. The Power of Micro-Influencers

While there will always be a place for mega-influencers on Instagram, micro-influencers are becoming an increasingly important part of the marketing landscape.

Niche Influencer Marketing

Micro-influencers are often more niche and have a smaller, but more dedicated following. 

This means that they are able to create more targeted content that resonates with their audience on a deeper level. 

For example, a micro-influencer who specializes in yoga may have a smaller following than a mega-influencer, but their audience is likely to be made up of people who are truly interested in yoga and wellness. 

By working with micro-influencers, brands can tap into a highly engaged and loyal audience that is more likely to convert into customers.

Another benefit of niche marketing is that it allows brands to reach a more diverse audience. 

By partnering with micro-influencers who come from different backgrounds and have different interests, brands can expand their reach and connect with new customers who may not have been reached through traditional marketing channels.

Building Long-Term Partnerships

In addition to the benefits of niche marketing, working with micro-influencers also offers the opportunity to build long-term partnerships. 

By building relationships with micro-influencers, brands can create a network of advocates that will help promote their products and services on an ongoing basis.

These long-term partnerships are beneficial for both the brand and the influencer. 

For the brand, it means that they have a group of advocates who are passionate about their products and are willing to promote them to their followers. 

For the influencer, it means that they have a steady stream of income and a reliable partner to work with.

Furthermore, long-term partnerships allow for more authentic and genuine content. 

When an influencer has been working with a brand for a long time, they are more likely to have a deeper understanding of the brand's values and products. 

This means that they can create content that is more authentic and resonates with their audience on a deeper level.

Hence, while mega-influencers will always have a place in the world of Instagram marketing, micro-influencers are becoming an increasingly important part of the landscape. 

By working with micro-influencers, brands can tap into a highly engaged and loyal audience, expand their reach, and build long-term partnerships that benefit both the brand and the influencer.

7. The Emergence of Instagram Live Rooms

Instagram Live Rooms, which allow up to four users to go live together, launched in 2021. We can expect this feature to become even more popular in 2023.

Collaborative Live Streaming

Brands and influencers can use Live Rooms to collaborate with other users and create engaging, interactive content. 

This can include everything from live Q&A sessions to product demos.

Live Rooms for Virtual Events

Live Rooms also offer the opportunity to host virtual events. 

Brands can host everything from virtual product launches to webinars and conferences, all from within the Instagram app.

8. The Focus on Mental Health and Well-Being

Instagram has made several changes in recent years to prioritize mental health and well-being, and we can expect this trend to continue in 2023.

Instagram's Anti-Bullying Features

Instagram has rolled out several anti-bullying features in recent years, including the ability to restrict comments and the ability to block or report users who are engaging in harmful behavior.

Encouraging Positive Online Communities

In addition to combating negative behavior, Instagram is also working to encourage positive online communities. 

This includes everything from promoting wellness and self-care to highlighting positive news and stories from around the world.

9. The Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly important part of the Instagram experience, and we can expect this trend to continue in 2023.

AI-Driven Content Recommendations

Instagram's algorithm already uses AI to recommend content to users, but we can expect this feature to become even more advanced in the years to come. 

Brands that are able to create content that is favored by the algorithm will see increased visibility and engagement on the platform.

AI-Powered Analytics and Insights

Finally, we can expect to see more AI-powered analytics and insights. 

Brands that are able to use these tools to track performance and optimize their content will be better positioned to succeed on the platform in 2023 and beyond.

FAQs- Here’s More For You!

Q. What are the latest Instagram trends that will be popular in 2023?

In 2023, some of the top Instagram trends include ephemeral content, multi-format storytelling, influencer marketing, and shoppable posts.

Q. What is ephemeral content?

Ephemeral content is temporary content that disappears after a certain amount of time. Instagram Stories and Reels are two examples of ephemeral content.

Q. What are some of the latest trends on Instagram?

One of the trends on Instagram is multi-format storytelling. Multi-format storytelling involves using different types of content, such as photos, videos, and graphics, to tell a compelling story on Instagram.

Q. What are some of the Instagram latest trends?

Influencer marketing is an instagram latest trends where businesses partner with popular users to promote their brand or product to a broader audience. This trend is expected to continue as more businesses recognize the value of working with influencers to expand their reach and establish credibility with potential customers.

Q. What's trending on IG nowadays?

One popular trend on Instagram right now is shoppable posts. Shoppable posts allow users to purchase products directly from an Instagram post, making it easier for businesses to sell products on the platform. 

READ MORE: How to Design Eye‑Catching Marketing Emails in 2023

Q. What are some other trending topics on Instagram?

Other trending topics on Instagram include sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and authenticity.

Q. How can I keep up with the latest Instagram trends?

To stay up-to-date on the latest Instagram trends, follow industry experts, attend conferences and webinars, and read social media news and updates.

Q. Are these Instagram trends likely to change?

Yes, Instagram trends are constantly evolving and changing. It's important to stay aware of the latest updates and changes on the platform to keep your content fresh and engaging.

Conclusion

Instagram a platform that is constantly evolving, and keeping up with the latest Instagram trends is essential for brands and businesses to succeed. 

Multi-format storytelling, influencer marketing, and shoppable posts are just a few of the current Instagram trends that are becoming increasingly popular. 

By staying up-to-date with these trends and adjusting their strategies accordingly, businesses can continue to thrive on the platform by connecting with their audience in new and exciting ways. 

Instagram is evolving at a rapid pace, and it's important to keep track of these changes to remain relevant on the platform.