Taylor Farrell, Marketing Communication Specialist

It’s official, Instagram Stories have taken over. While we once went to Snapchat to show off what cool things were happening and to check out what our favorite brand was showcasing, recent trends suggest consumers are picking Instagram over Snapchat.

Unlike Snapchat, Instagram is a social media platform where brands already have a large following. Instagram Stories give brands an opportunity to not only connect with their followers on a more personal level, it gives them a chance to be creative and showcase fun and exclusive content to their followers.

There are a few brands I personally keep up with on Instagram who have adopted the Instagram Stories feature quite well. I have listed a few of my favorites below and made notes about how they are using Instagram Stories to tell their brands story.

J.Crew (@jcrew):

@jcrew is using Instagram Stories to display their favorite clothing items. For instance, they showcased a top on their story and showed their followers how you can wear the same top multiple ways. They additionally featured the top as a post on their Instagram page and directed their followers to their web site to purchase the top. They did this simply by mentioning the product link in their Instagram bio which is just a simple tap away.

Free People (@freepeople):

@freepeople does an excellent job at utilizing Instagram Stories. They adopted it by doing things such as showing Facebook Live videos on their story of creative things such as yoga classes, allowing their followers to watch some of the Facebook Live on their Instagram if they aren’t on Facebook at the moment. This is not only convenient for their followers, it also drives followers to their Facebook page to watch the Facebook Live videos there as well.

Mac Cosmetics (@maccosmetics):

@maccosmetics has Instagram Stories mastered, allowing them to connect and engage with their followers on another level. Mac showcases makeup products used on their story for makeovers, and features different products throughout their story. They let their followers in on a unique and private experience and give them make-up tips and let them see the professionals of Mac Cosmetics at work. They even have a link in their bio that directs you to products you can purchase that they have used in their posts.

Urban Outfitters (@urbanoutfitters):

@urbanoutfitters does a phenomenal job at fully utilizing Instagram Stories. They feature unique videos on their Instagram stories such as individuals showing you how to “get the look” with different products they have at their stores. They show the complete application process of the products and have their website link in their Instagram bio allowing their followers to access the products online with a few simple taps.

It’s clear that brands are quickly figuring out all the neat features that come with Instagram Stories and are using it to their benefit to tell their brands story. As you can see, Instagram Stories is a great tool for brands and companies to use to not only engage with their followers, but to increase revenue and gain customers. Get out there and start sharing YOUR story!