Instagram has evolved far beyond a photo-sharing app. Today, it’s a powerful platform for messaging, video calling, sharing reels, and staying connected with friends across the world. One of its most creative features is the ability to personalize chat themes. These themes allow users to customize their DM (Direct Message) backgrounds with unique colors, gradients, and fun graphics, making conversations more engaging.
If you're wondering how to change chat theme in Instagram, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—step-by-step instructions, reasons why the feature may not appear, and ways to further personalize your messaging experience.
What Are Instagram Chat Themes?
Before learning how to change chat theme in Instagram, it’s important to understand what the themes are. Chat themes replace the standard chat background with colorful or graphic designs. These themes can completely change the look and feel of your conversation.
Instagram offers different types of themes:
Color Gradients (Purple, orange, blue, etc.)
Seasonal Themes (Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day)
Special Collab Themes (Movies, anime, celebrities)
Animated Themes (Floating hearts, cute patterns, sparkles)
Changing the chat theme can make conversations more fun, personal, and visually appealing.
How to Change Chat Theme in Instagram (Step-by-Step)
Changing the chat theme is simple, whether you're using Android or iOS. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Instagram
Make sure you’re logged into your account and using the latest version of the app.
Step 2: Go to Direct Messages
Tap the Messenger icon in the top-right corner of your screen.
This will open your DM list.
Step 3: Choose a Conversation
Select any chat where you want to change the theme.
Step 4: Tap the Username
At the top of the chat window, tap the person’s name. This opens the chat settings panel.
Step 5: Click on “Theme”
In the chat settings, you’ll find several options such as:
Mute messages
Mute calls
Vanish mode
Theme
Tap Theme to explore theme options.
Step 6: Select Your Desired Theme
Instagram will display various themes under different categories:
Themes
Colors & Gradients
Special Events
Tap the one you like.
The theme will apply instantly, and both you and the other person will see the new background.
A small notification also appears inside the chat saying:
“You changed the theme to [Theme Name].”
Why You Might Not See the Chat Theme Option
Some users often report that they can’t find the theme option. There are several common reasons and easy fixes.
1. Your Instagram App Needs an Update
Chat themes are part of Instagram’s upgraded messaging features.
If the option isn’t visible, update the app from the Play Store or App Store.
2. Messaging Update Not Enabled
Instagram and Messenger are integrated.
Without updating the messaging system, themes won’t appear.
To fix this:
Go to Settings
Tap Account
Select Update Messaging
3. Poor Internet Connection
Chat themes sometimes fail to load on slow networks.
4. Using an Outdated Device
Older devices may not support new Instagram features.
5. Restrictions Due to Country or Account Type
Some regions or business accounts may see delays in feature rollout.
Popular Instagram Chat Themes You Should Try
Now that you know how to change chat theme in Instagram, let’s explore some top themes users love:
1. Love & Hearts Themes
Perfect for couples or close friends. They include floating hearts and romantic visuals.
2. Tie-Dye Theme
Bright, colorful, and perfect for aesthetic lovers.
3. Lo-Fi Theme
Calm, cozy, and ideal for late-night chats.
4. Seasonal Themes
Instagram releases special themed backgrounds for:
Halloween
New Year
Christmas
Valentine’s Day
These add a festive touch to your conversations.
5. Movie & Anime Themes
Many themes are inspired by popular films and shows.
For example:
Star Wars
Avengers
Barbie
Anime collabs
These often include animated elements, making chats more dynamic.
6. Gradient Colors
Simple but beautiful color gradients such as:
Purple
Orange
Blue
Green
Pastel shades
Extra Ways to Personalize Your Instagram Chats
Changing the chat theme is just the beginning. Instagram offers many other customization options:
1. Custom Emoji Reactions
You can change default thumbs-up reactions to your favorite emojis.
2. Nicknames
Give your contacts fun or personalized nicknames within the chat.
3. Vanish Mode
Enable disappearing messages for temporary or private conversations.
4. Stickers and GIFs
Add personality and humor to your chats with animated expressions.
5. Chat Background Animations
Some themes come with animated effects, adding life to the chat screen.
Does the Other Person See the Theme Change?
Yes.
When you change the theme, the chat style updates for both people. Instagram also notifies the other user with a small message indicating the change.
Benefits of Changing Chat Themes
Learning how to change chat theme in Instagram offers several advantages:
Makes conversations more enjoyable
Improves visual experience
Helps organize chats by color
Enhances mood and aesthetic
Allows creative expression
Whether you're chatting with friends, partners, or colleagues, a themed chat adds a personal touch.
Conclusion
Understanding how to change chat theme in Instagram allows you to completely personalize your messaging experience. With just a few taps, you can transform a plain chat into something colorful, festive, or stylish. Whether you prefer simple gradients or animated themes, Instagram offers endless options to suit every mood and personality.
Now that you know how to change themes, troubleshoot issues, and discover fun customization features, you can enjoy a more engaging and visually appealing chatting experience. Explore the themes, try out new combinations, and make each conversation uniquely yours.
