Instagram has grown from a photo-sharing app into a full-fledged messaging and social media platform. Among its many customizable features, changing the theme of your direct message (DM) chats is one of the most fun and visually engaging options. If you’re looking to personalize your messages by turning your Instagram chat purple, you’re in the right place.
Changing the chat color not only improves user experience but also lets you reflect your personality or match aesthetic preferences. This step-by-step guide explains how you can confidently and safely make your Instagram chat purple, ensuring you take full advantage of the feature without compromising your app’s performance or security.
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Why Change Your Instagram Chat Color?
Instagram’s message themes are more than just decorative. They:
- Enhance visual appeal: A themed chat makes conversations more engaging.
- Help differentiate chats: If you’re managing multiple conversations, different themes can help you keep track.
- Allow personal expression: Themes contribute to a more personalized user experience.
Switching to a purple theme might simply be an aesthetic choice, but for some users, it can align with favorite colors, brand palettes, or simply enhance readability over the standard white and blue interface.
Steps to Make Your Instagram Chat Purple
Before you begin, ensure that your Instagram app is updated to the latest version. This will guarantee that you have access to all customization features. Here’s how to change your chat theme:
- Open the Instagram app on your smartphone.
- Tap on the Messenger icon in the top-right corner to open your chats.
- Select the conversation you want to customize.
- Tap on the chat name or the information icon in the top-right corner of the chat screen.
- Choose “Theme” from the customization options.
- Scroll through the list and select one of the purple-themed options, such as:
- Dusk – A deep purple gradient ideal for late-night aesthetics
- Purple – A straightforward, rich purple color
- Galaxy – A celestial design that includes vibrant purples and blues
- Once selected, your chat background will change instantly to the purple theme.

Note that both parties on the chat will be able to see the change in theme. Additionally, this setting is specific to each chat and must be set individually for multiple conversations.
What to Do if the Theme Option Doesn’t Appear
In some instances, users have trouble finding or activating chat themes. Here are some trouble-shooting steps:
- Update the App: Visit the App Store or Google Play Store to make sure Instagram is up-to-date.
- Enable Messenger Integration: Instagram merged messages with Facebook Messenger in a major update. If you haven’t agreed to this integration, the feature may not be available.
- Log Out and Log Back In: Sometimes, a simple reset of your session can refresh features.
- Reinstall the App: Delete and reinstall Instagram to force an update of features and cache.
Is Changing Chat Themes Safe?
Yes, changing your Instagram chat theme is a built-in feature developed by Meta. It does not expose you to security risks or make your account vulnerable in any way. It simply adjusts the UI (User Interface) elements of your DM chat screens. No third-party apps or downloads are necessary, and it’s strongly recommended you avoid any app that claims to “unlock” custom themes outside of Instagram’s offering.

Keeping Your App Experience Smooth
While Instagram is always evolving with new features, your best experience comes from keeping a few best practices in mind:
- Regular Updates: Always use the latest version of Instagram.
- Monitor Device Performance: Ensure your phone OS supports all Instagram features.
- Report Bugs: If themes disappear or don’t function correctly, use the in-app support feature to report the issue.
In Summary
Making your Instagram chat purple is a quick, safe, and visually satisfying way to personalize your conversation experience. Whether for aesthetics or organization, switching to a purple theme is simple with Instagram’s native tools. Just follow the outlined steps and enjoy your newly stylized chats.
As Instagram continues to expand its features, staying informed about updates will make your time on the platform more enjoyable and connected to your personal preferences. Customize with confidence—your perfectly purple chat awaits.