80+ Best Ways to Slide Into Your Crush’s Instagram DMs

Sliding into someone’s DMs can be super intimidating. You might be thinking...How do I strike up a conversation, or should I go the friendly, flirty, or funny route? Fortunately, it’s not as scary as you think, and we’re here to help out! In this article, we’re providing the ultimate list of smooth lines to slide into someone’s Instagram DMs. We’ll also provide tips on how to stand out and catch your crush’s attention.

Top-Tier Lines to Slide into Someone’s DMs

I have a theory that we’d get along way too well. Wanna test it?
What’s the best way to slide into your DMs? Asking for…well, me.
I was gonna play it cool, but then I remembered life’s short…so hey.
Hey, I noticed you went to (place/restaurant/event). Is it worth the hype?
You always post the best music in your stories. What’s your Spotify profile?
That snickerdoodle protein shake looks insanely good. What’s your recipe?
I’m going to (their city/vacation spot) next week. What’s the best thing to do there?

Section 1 of 8:

Smoothest Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Shoot your shot with these smooth and strategic openers. If you want to slide into someone’s DMs in a smooth and natural way, replying to their story with a question is the best approach.^{[1]
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Research source} It shows that you noticed something about them and are curious to learn more, plus makes it easier for them to reply. Here are the smoothest DM slides:
- That riff is SICK. What guitar are you playing?
- Aw, your kitten is adorable. How long have you had them?
- I went to Cancun last summer! What resort did you stay at?
- Ooooh, is that the viral Dubai chocolate? What’s your rating?
- Hey, I noticed we have a lot of mutuals. Have we met before?
- I feel like you’re traveling 24/7. Where are you headed to next?
- I love the quality of your photos. What film camera do you use?
- That looks like an extreme adrenaline rush! Were you scared at all?
- I love how you’ve set up your room. Where’s that cool tapestry from?
- Hey, I noticed you went to (place/restaurant/event). Is it worth the hype?
- Your hiking views always look amazing. What’s the best trail around here?
- You always post the best music in your stories. What’s your Spotify profile?
- I’m going to (city/vacation spot) next week. What’s the best thing to do there?
- Woah, you’re a legit barista. How do you make the top of your latte so foamy?
- Congrats on your promotion! If you feel like celebrating soon, drinks are on me.
- I’m going to be in (their city) this weekend. What are some bars I shouldn't miss?
- That place looks like it’s out of a movie! Is that in (their city), or are you traveling?
- Damn, that snickerdoodle protein shake looks insanely good. What’s your recipe?
- Bungee jumping has been on my bucket list for years. How was your experience?
- OMG, I love Sam Fender! Did you see he’s playing a show downtown next month?
- I know you’re an avid reader. Do you have any murder-mystery recommendations?
- That concert looks EPIC. How did you manage to get tickets? I thought it was sold out!
- I watched that movie the other day! What’d you think about the plot twist? I was SHOOK.
- That’s literally my favorite spot. Please tell me you ordered the olive oil cake for dessert…
- Hey, I saw you posting about mahjong. Any recommendations for a beginner trying to get into it?
- You seem like you know all the cool thrifting spots. Got any hidden gems you’d recommend?
- You HAVE to check out (local restaurant name). It has the best burgers in the city. Criminally underrated.
- My dog and I go to that park all the time. Maybe we’ll bump into you one day…I’m always down for a puppy playdate!
- Looks like my Eagles really crushed your Cowboys last night. Sending you my deepest sympathies…you’ll be in my thoughts tonight.
- Seems like you’re a pretty competitive bowler. I don’t know if you’ve heard, but I’m kind of a pro myself. Maybe we could play together…you might just meet your match.

Section 2 of 8:

Funny Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Drop a witty joke or one-liner to make them laugh out loud. Sending an unexpected and funny line is a great way to stand out and show off your playful side. Studies show that humor is one of the best ways to deepen your relationship with someone.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source

Greater Good Magazine
Journal published by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, which uses scientific research to promote happier living

Go to source} So, try any of these funny openers to break the ice:
- You seem cool. What’s the catch?
- Do you like raisins? How about a date?
- What’s the best lie we could tell about how we met?
- I was today years old when I realized I need you in my life.
- What’s the best way to slide into your DMs? Asking for…well, me.
- I was gonna play it cool, but then I remembered life’s short…so hey.
- Not to be dramatic, but if we don’t start talking, I might just deactivate.
- I could’ve just double-tapped, but I felt like you deserved a little more effort.
- Not saying that Instagram wants us together, but the algorithm clearly has taste.
- Tell me something fun about you…or just drop your worst pick-up line. I’ll match your energy.
- Do we tell people we met in the DMs, or do we come up with something more dramatic?

Section 3 of 8:

Flirty Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Cut to the chase with these flirty and forward opening lines. If you want to communicate that you like someone, the “best approach is being direct,” says matchmaker and certified life coach Christina Jay, NLP.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Christina Jay, NLP
Dating & Relationship Coach

Expert Interview} Let the other person know you find them interesting and attractive, and don’t be afraid to shoot your shot. Chances are, they’ll be flattered that you’re making the first move.
- Not here to waste your time. Dinner or drinks?
- I have a theory that we’d get along way too well. Wanna test it?
- I don’t usually do this, but you seemed worth breaking the rule for.
- You seem like someone who’d be fun to flirt with. Care to confirm?
- I feel like you’re going to be my favorite notification. Prove me right?
- Instagram said we should be mutuals, but I think we should be more than that.
- I feel like we’d be a solid duo. What’s our vibe…partners in crime or troublemakers?
- I’m not great with pick-up lines, but I’m definitely good at getting to know cute people.
- So, do we exchange numbers now, or do I have to pretend to care about the weather first?
- I was going to hit you with a smooth pick-up line, but let’s be real…your profile already did the heavy lifting.

Section 4 of 8:

Clever Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Send a chill and clever message to make them feel comfortable. Being super thirsty in the DMs can weird the other person out (and give them the ick). So, stick to a subtle and friendly compliment that prompts a response. Here are some clever, non-cringy messages to start a casual conversation:
- You seem like someone I’d regret not saying hi to, so…hi.
- Your feed is a whole vibe. You’re not a full-time influencer, are you?
- Just wanted to let you know that your posts always put a smile on my face!
- You’re honestly one of the most creative people on this app. Love your style!
- I just saw your post and thought: “Wow I need to be friends with this person.”
- I was scrolling through Instagram and realized your feed is basically my vacation.
- Okay, but seriously, how do you always find the coolest places? Give me your secrets!
- I’m usually not this forward, but you seem like someone I’d have an epic conversation with.
- I was gonna leave a comment, but I figured this would be a better way to start a conversation.
- I was debating whether or not to DM you, but then I saw your post about the MCR reunion and thought “Yep, they’re cool.”

Section 5 of 8:

Creative Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Ask a unique and unexpected question to stand out from the crowd. Looking to set yourself apart from other guys and girls in the DMs? Think of a witty, playful, or unexpected question to grab their attention. Asking a question motivates the other person to respond to you, making it the best way to start a conversation.^{[4]
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Research source} Here are some creative openers you can try:
- What’s your hot take or unpopular opinion?
- What’s a totally useless but highly impressive skill you have?
- If you had to give a TED talk on something, what would it be?
- POV: We can visit any fictional world together. What’s the move?
- If your life had a soundtrack, what song would be playing right now?
- What’s the best way to impress you? Asking purely for strategic reasons.
- You look like you have elite taste. Prove me right—favorite flavor combo?
- What’s the most interesting DM you’ve ever gotten? Hoping to at least make top 3.
- If we had to explain how we met in a way that makes us sound cooler, what would our story be?
- If we were in a heist movie, what role would you play? No pressure, but our getaway depends on your answer.

Section 6 of 8:

Cheesy Lines to Slide in the DMs

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Throw out a tried and true pick-up line to be direct. If you want to make your intentions clear, try using a pick-up line that’s both cheesy and charming. Remember that sending any pick-up line is a risk, but it’s definitely a way to catch your crush’s attention and show off your confidence:^{[5]
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Research source}
- Wanna be Minecraft without the craft?
- If you were a taser, you’d be set to stun.
- If you were a flower, you’d be a damnnn-delion.
- The doctor says I’m seriously lacking in vitamin U.
- Do you like Star Wars? Because Yoda one for me!
- Are you a keyboard? Because you’re just my type.
- Was your dad a boxer? Because you’re a knockout!
- Are you a time-traveler? Because I see you in my future.
- If being sexy were a crime, you’d be on the FBI’s most wanted list.
- When I text you goodnight later, what phone number should I use?
- Did your license get suspended for driving all these guys/girls crazy?

Section 7 of 8:

Best Tips for Sliding into Their DMs

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1
Build an attractive Instagram profile. Before you DM someone, it’s important that your profile is up to date, with a clear profile picture and photos that showcase your personality. The other person will definitely look at your profile to see if they want to respond, so make sure to highlight your hobbies, interests, and anything else that makes you fun and unique!
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Follow them and respond to their story. If you don’t follow the other person, they might not see your message because it’ll be under the “requests” tab on Instagram. Following them puts you on their radar and increases the chances of getting a response. Then, you can easily reply to their story and start a conversation.^{[6]
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Research source}
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Ask an open-ended question about their post. Hands down, this is the smoothest way to slide into someone’s DMs because it prompts a response from the other person. If they post a story on a beach, for example, you could say it looks beautiful and then ask for the location. If they post a home-cooked meal, you could ask for their recipe. That way, you’re showing interest in an organic way, without forcing anything.^{[7]
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- Reader Poll: We asked 127 wikiHow readers: what’s the best way to connect with a potential date via text or DMs? 52% said they had the best luck when discussing common interests and hobbies. [Take Poll] So when in doubt, message them about a potential shared interest—for example, if you’re a big reader, send a DM about a book in the background of a recent post.
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Give them a sincere, non-physical compliment. For a slightly more direct approach, feel free to compliment them on their style, art, skills, or overall aesthetic. Most people love hearing nice things about themselves, and giving a compliment is one of the best ways to express admiration and interest. Just make sure you don’t focus on their appearance, since that can weird them out.
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Keep your DM short, sweet, and positive. To avoid sounding creepy or crossing any lines, be sure your message is kind and appropriate. Making rude or sexual comments can make the other person feel uncomfortable, plus decrease your chances of getting a response. Instead, send a positive message, and don’t take things personally if they don’t reply. Remember, the other person doesn’t owe you a response, and they might not even see your DM!

Section 8 of 8:

Frequently Asked Questions

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How can I stand out from other guys in her DMs? If you’re replying to a girl’s story or highlights, ask a genuine question about something she’s posted. She has probably received tons of cheesy compliments and pick-up lines before, so being curious and approaching her in a friendly way will instantly set you apart. You should also tailor your opening line to her profile, personality, or interests as best as you can.^{[8]
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- For example, if she posts a selfie wearing a band tee, you could ask for her favorite album. If she posts a photo at a restaurant, you could ask for her rating or overall thoughts.
- Alternatively, you could give a sincere compliment that goes beyond physical appearance. Letting her know that she has a cool personality or aesthetic is a lot more unique than saying she’s “cute” or “has gorgeous eyes.”
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What are some things I should avoid when sliding in the DMs? Generally, you should avoid using cheesy pick-up lines, unless you think it matches the other person’s sense of humor. If they’re always posting dad jokes or memes, for instance, you could take a risk and go for it. You should also avoid sending multiple DMs, especially if they don’t respond to your message. Doing so can come off as creepy or overbearing. Other things you should avoid when sliding in the DMs include:^{[9]
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- Avoid sending emojis: Sending a single emoji, whether it’s the heart eyes or fire emoji, is one of the most basic ways to reply to someone’s story. Since the other person can’t really respond to it (unlike a question or witty comment), it’s the equivalent of saying nothing.
- Avoid just saying “hey:” This is another generic and boring way to slide into someone’s DMs, and there’s a high chance you’ll be completely ignored. Putting more effort and thought into your message is more likely to elicit a response and start a fun conversation.
- Avoid putting the other person on a pedestal: It’s okay to give someone a compliment, but raving about their appearance can make them feel uncomfortable, especially if you don’t know them well. There’s a high chance they receive lots of compliments about their looks, so you don’t need to go overboard.
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How can I ask for someone’s phone number over DM? You should “always give a reason” to get someone’s number, according to dating expert Imad Jbara. If you talked to them about their favorite show, for example, you could say something like, “give me your number so I can text you when season two comes out.” Providing a reason is a natural way to ask for their number and “make them more enticed.”^{[10]
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Expert Source

Imad Jbara
Dating Coach

Expert Interview}
- Generally, the best time to ask for someone’s number is after they’ve shown an interest by keeping the conversation going over DM.^{[11]
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- You could also make a joke about getting their number for a playful approach. For example, you could say, “I was going to ask for your number, but I realized I’m pretty good at stalking you on here” or “it’s obvious we vibe with each other, so I think it’s only right I have your number to keep the good times rolling!”