How often do you find yourself browsing Instagram or Pinterest to find a few inspiring photos? See how many internet users decided to buy a product they saw on social media.

Today, both office decor and home design are largely based on inspiration drawn from two popular social media platforms. Instagram and Pinterest - it is their highly visual nature that makes them ideal places to find design inspiration, and even to make purchasing decisions.

About 72% of users report that after seeing a product on Instagram, they made a purchase in the fashion, beauty or home decor category. As many as 72% of Pinterest users admit that the platform inspires them to shop, even when they are not looking for anything specific, and 90% of them say that Pinterest helps them decide what products to buy.

Many consumers admit that they look for decorative items that would look good on social media. However, the influence of social media on our perception of "pretty" things does not end there.

Social media are changing the perception of beauty

Before social media began to influence consumers so strongly, what people perceived as attractive was largely based on what was fashionable and popular.

Social media have become the main source of inspiration, so it is no wonder that so many new, emerging companies have appeared on the market. Thanks to social media, it is much easier for smaller designers to make a name for themselves. Moreover, smaller brands very often exert influence by basing fashion design on the interests and lifestyles of people aged 18 to 24, while other brands still focus on older customers.

Social media help educate consumers

Both Instagram and Pinterest are not only a place to present design ideas or a way to inspire consumers, but also a fully educational platform. Pinterest is already associated with a studio that makes sure content is polished and looks as spectacular as possible. An ideal example is the Kelly Wearstler brand, which provides advice on remodeling, decorating and guides. It uses the "Tried It" feature on Pinterest to increase engagement for its brand.