The Tale of Two Influencers.
In the world of social media, influencers have become a driving force in shaping online culture. Two platforms, Instagram and TikTok, have given rise to distinct types of influencers, each with their own unique style and aesthetic.
Instagram’s “Mean Girl”: The Cult of Perfection
Instagram influencers, have become synonymous with perfection. Their feeds are meticulously curated, showcasing flawless skin, impeccable fashion sense, and exotic vacations. Every post is a masterclass in aesthetics, with carefully selected filters, captions, and hashtags.
These influencers have created a culture of unattainable beauty standards, where followers feel pressure to conform to unrealistic ideals. Instagram’s “mean girl” influencers often come across as unapproachable, with their perfectionism creating a sense of distance between themselves and their audience.
TikTok’s “Funny Girl”: The Embrace of Authenticity
TikTok influencers, on the other hand, have taken a decidedly different approach. Dubbed the “funny girl” influencers, they have built their followings on humor, relatability, and authenticity. Their content often features them without makeup, showcasing their natural beauty and imperfections.
TikTok’s short-form video format has allowed influencers to be more spontaneous and genuine, often sharing unedited, behind-the-scenes moments from their daily lives. This approach has created a sense of connection and community between influencers and their followers, who appreciate the raw, unfiltered content.
The 2025 US TikTok Ban: A Brief but Chaotic Chapter
On January 18th, 2025, the US government enforced a ban on TikTok, sending shockwaves through the influencer community. TikTok influencers took to the platform, posting emotional “remember when” videos, reminiscing about their time on the app. The hashtag #TikTokMemories trended, with influencers and users alike sharing their favorite moments from the platform.
The ban sparked fears among influencers that they would have to migrate to Instagram, a platform often perceived as the “high school” of social media. The thought of conforming to Instagram’s curated aesthetic and competitive atmosphere was daunting for many.
The Ban is Lifted: A Sigh of Relief
However, in a dramatic turn of events, the ban was lifted on January 19th, 2025, less than a day after its implementation. The news sparked widespread relief among TikTok influencers and users, who could once again access the platform and share their content.
The brief but chaotic chapter highlighted the influence and power of TikTok’s community. It also served as a stark reminder that the age of influencers can quickly come to an end, leaving even the most popular creators vulnerable to the whims of government regulations and platform policies.
