Pinterest, the popular visual discovery engine, has recently made strides in inclusivity by expanding its body type search feature to a broader user base. This innovative tool, known as 'body type ranges,' allows users to filter their searches by different body types, making it easier for individuals to find fashion and wedding ideas that cater to diverse figures.
Research shows that Pinterest users want to see diverse content on our platform by honing in on searches with our inclusive tools, such as skin tone ranges and hair pattern search. With almost half a billion people coming to the platform to search, save and shop every month, Pinterest is focused on creating an online experience that reflects the diversity of its global users.
“Pinterest is a visual discovery platform and we want users to be able to see themselves reflected in their search results,” said Sabrina Ellis, Chief Product Officer at Pinterest. “That’s why we are leveraging AI to bring greater inclusion to our product design. Body type ranges increase representation on the platform and give Pinterest users more intentional choice and control over what they see on Pinterest. We have already seen that people who use body type ranges had a 66% higher engagement rate per session on Pinterest than those who haven’t used the tool.”
Pinterest has significantly broadened the scope of search results, offering users content that reflects a wider range of body experiences by integrating this technology into its search algorithms. Pinterest's inclusivity efforts began in 2018 with the launch of AI-powered filters for skin tone, followed by filters for hair patterns in 2021. These features have allowed users to search for beauty and fashion-related images that match their skin color or hair texture, fostering a sense of representation and belonging within the platform's community.
The impact of these inclusive search features is substantial. For instance, when Pinterest introduced the skin tone range filter, it observed a 70% year-over-year increase in users saving pins across the skin tone ranges in their feeds. Similarly, the new body type technology has improved the representation of different body types on the platform fivefold in women’s fashion-related searches in the U.S.
Pinterest's dedication to inclusivity extends beyond search features. The platform has also promoted gender diversity, with searches related to understanding gender and gender identity seeing significant increases. Moreover, Pinterest has committed to purchasing 100% renewable electricity for their global offices by 2025, demonstrating a broader commitment to social responsibility.
How To Use Pinterest’s New Body Type Search Tool
How to use body type ranges:
- Open the Pinterest app
- Select the search icon
- Type into the search bar (e.g. “fall outfits”)
- Click body types at the top of the search results
- Select from a range from 1-4 body types
How to save body type ranges selection to your device:
- When you select the same body type range twice, Pinterest will prompt you with a modal asking to save this selection for similar searches.
- Select "Okay" to save the selection on your device.
Body type ranges for women’s fashion and wedding-related content search is available in the US and is currently being tested in Canada. Body type ranges will roll out to men’s fashion later this year, and to new verticals and additional international markets on an ongoing basis.
As Pinterest continues to evolve, it remains a vital space for users to discover new ideas and plan future purchases. With nearly half a billion monthly active users, the platform offers brands a unique opportunity to connect with an audience eager for inspiration.
