While majority of the celebrities rely heavily on their social media managers to create an ‘online persona’ to feed their fanbase, there are some Instagram (IG) savvy celebs, who aesthetically design their Insta accounts and leave a trail of online breadcrumbs to satiate the hunger of millions of IG followers. From appealing collages and digital dances to trendy songs and witty catchphrases, these celebs navigate the ever-shifting landscape of IG trends. It’s not surprising that the power of tiny 6-inch mobile phone screens has outshined the glamour of big 180 sq.ft. silver screens.
Infotainment Craze
In the realm of celebrity buzz, Instagram reigns supreme as the go-to hub for the juiciest gossip and fashion advice. Leading the charge is India's alluring actress, Deepika Padukone, her feed is a masterclass in flexibility—think fascinating collages, picturesque grids, goofy reels, and rhythmic three-image sequences. Celebrity social media manager Debayan Das says, “For celebrity photo shoots, it’s a trend among Bollywood stars to post three best pictures and a matching reel, a practice notably embraced by Deepika.” Debayan explains that the logic behind such a primarily engagement-driving method of posting is a hunger for a larger picture behind the glitz and glamour. The best time for celebrities to post on social media is undoubtedly the weekends with Saturday (12 am) reserved for star-studded celebrity shenanigans or a Sunday evening for a relaxing feel-good post.
“Be it Deepika’s undying love for hubby Ranveer Singh or Anushka’s heartwarming pictures with better half Virat Kohli, one trend stands tall – GO BIG, SHOUT your lover’s name to the mountains, and watch a MILLION HEARTS MELT! Behind-the-scene reels and lovey-dovey posts are a superhit among curiosity-ridden fans who wish to share a small part of a celebrity’s relatable side and foster a unique connection,” shares Debayan.
Be Yourself
Celebrities are well-acquainted with layers of makeup, a requirement for limitless photoshoots, film sets, brand promotions, or even a casual stroll to the coffee shop. Social media becomes a haven where celebs unleash their authenticity and uncover the layers of a behind-the-scenes life outside of flashing cameras. Young heartthrobs Alia Bhatt and Ananya Pandey set Facebook and Instagram ablaze with their stunning no-makeup selfies.
The radiant Jacqueline Fernandes, crowned as IG’s ‘Beauty Queen’, channels her love for horses and animal advocacy across her vibrant social media canvas. Handsome hunk John Abraham crafts a persona reflective of his passions, sharing glimpses of fitness, motorcycles, and daring adventures. Timeless fitness icons Malaika Arora and Shilpa Shetty showcase their hourglass bodies, campaigning for healthier lifestyles and junking junk food.
Sassy + Badass = Chic
The ‘Old Money Aesthetic’ born from the HBO hit series Succession, is causing a stir across social media, as Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities unite under the chic banner of ‘sassy with a touch of badassy!’ A-listers like Hrithik Roshan, Sonam Kapoor, Zeenat Aman, and Anushka Sharma are embodying the trend, flaunting impeccably tailored blazers, stylish riding boots, breezy linen, classic pearl earrings, playful polka dot patterns, and a colour palette dominated by chic neutral shades. In the limitless ocean of social media, where a single click leads to unofficial ‘celeb status’, and each share ignites a ripple of infamous chatter, the omnipotence of social media continues to emerge as a symbol of unique self-expression.
Behind the Scenes
Maintaining consistency in posting and catering to the larger target audience is tantamount for celebrities to establish a ‘permanent ink’ in the hearts of their beloved fans. Atul Patidar, an Instagram content creator and social media market influencer shares, “Creating a unique aesthetic for a celebrity's social media accounts involves defining their identity, and visual style, showcasing their authentic side, crafting a compelling content strategy, and maintaining consistency.” The ascent to stardom for a celebrity often rides on the shoulders of their managers, wielding a definite influence. These behind-the-scenes maestros orchestrate brand endorsements and event engagements, armed with a remarkable understanding of social media dynamics and a keen eye for nurturing a positive brand image. Speaking of her experience as a celebrity manager for big names like Tochi Raina, Neha Kakkar, and Ritesh Deshmukh, Riddhi Modi shares, “Navigating an artist’s media journey boils down to grasping deliverables, understanding their background, safeguarding their image, and aligning them with the right opportunities.”
Future Trends
As celebrities charmingly embrace authenticity, offering sneak peeks behind the scenes, vibing to trendy tunes, and indulging in chill Instagram Q&As or cozy staycations, it is apparent that the magic of social media will continue to weave its spell of power. With platforms like LinkedIn stepping into the spotlight for personal brand boosts, a favorable future of convergence of social media and success will stay for the future.
Navigating an artist’s media journey boils down to grasping deliverables, understanding their background, safeguarding their image, and aligning them with the right opportunities.” — Riddhi Modi, Celebrity Manager, Mumbai
Creating a unique aesthetic for a celebrity's social media accounts involves defining their identity, and visual style, showcasing their authentic side, crafting a compelling content strategy, and maintaining consistency.” — Atul Patidar, Content Creator and influencer social media marketer.
