How to install a Shopify theme: 3 easy ways

The steps to install a Shopify theme vary based on the type of theme and package. You can install themes from the Shopify admin, from the theme store, and even using zip files from third-party marketplaces like ThemeForest.

In this guide, I’ll show you the steps you need to follow to add a Shopify theme to your website using all those methods. I’ll even show you how to try a paid Shopify theme before you buy it.

Ready to learn? Let’s get straight to it!

How to install a free Shopify theme from the admin

Shopify develops all the free themes on the official theme store. So you can easily add them to your store without worrying about security issues or bugs.

Here are the steps you need to follow to add a free theme to Shopify.

1. Log in to the Shopify admin on a desktop, iPhone, or Android, and go to Sales Channels > Online Store > Themes.
2. Scroll down to the Popular free themes section and choose Add next to a free theme of your choice. You can browse more free theme options on the theme store by selecting the Visit Theme Store button.
3. Once the theme installs, it’ll display in the Theme library section. Select Publish to make it live on your online store.

That’s it. You can verify your theme by going to the front of your website.

How to try and install a paid Shopify theme

Shopify allows you to try any paid theme from the official theme store before buying it. You can preview the theme from the admin, customize it using the theme editor, and once you’re happy with it, buy it from the theme store and publish it on your Shopify site.

You can try up to 19 themes at the same time on your store. That makes it easy to compare different theme options before you pick one to build an online store with Shopify.

Here are the steps you need to follow to try and buy a paid theme from the Shopify theme store.

1. Log in to the Shopify admin on a desktop, iPhone, or Android, and go to Sales Channels > Online Store > Themes.
2. Scroll to the Theme library section, select the Add theme dropdown, and choose Visit Theme Store.
3. Browse the available themes and choose a theme you like.
4. Select Try theme on the theme listing page to add it to your Shopify store theme library.
5. Select the ellipsis button in the Theme library section and choose Preview to view the theme on your store.
6. If you’re happy with your theme, select Buy and approve the purchase charge.
7. After that, it’ll appear in the Theme library section. Select Publish to make it live on your online store.

How to install a Shopify theme using a zip file

Purchased a theme from a third-party marketplace like ThemeForest or got one custom-made from an agency or developer? You can upload those manually and install them on your Shopify store — all you need is the theme in a single zip file.

Follow these steps to install a Shopify theme from a zip file.

1. Log in to the Shopify admin on a desktop, iPhone, or Android, and go to Sales Channels > Online Store > Themes.
2. Scroll down to the Theme library section, select the Add theme dropdown, and choose Upload zip file.
3. Click Add file in the popup and upload your theme package using the file explorer window. The theme will appear in the Theme library section.
4. Use Preview to view the theme on your store, or choose Publish to make it live on your store.

How to switch themes in Shopify

One of my favorite Shopify features is the theme switcher. It’s useful when upgrading themes and when you need to overhaul your store design.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to do.

Here’s how you can switch themes in Shopify in seconds:

1. Log in to the Shopify admin on a desktop, iPhone, or Android, and go to Sales Channels > Online Store > Themes.
2. Scroll down to the Theme library section and either add a theme to your library using Add theme or select an existing theme from your library.
3. Choose Publish to switch your theme.

Installing Shopify themes: Next steps

I’ve explained how to install a Shopify theme in three ways and showed you how to switch themes. Now, it’s your turn to take action.

There are 12 free themes on the Shopify theme store and over 140 paid options. Find a theme that works for you and install it on your store following the steps I’ve explained.

If you want to learn more about performing basic tasks on your Shopify store, read my guide on adding Shopify products. I’ve shared helpful tips to help you make the most of Shopify’s latest features.

If you have any questions about installing or updating Shopify themes, leave them in the comments below and make sure you sign up for my newsletter to keep up with the latest developments in the ecommerce industry.

Frequently asked questions about installing Shopify themes