Make Windows XP look like Mac OS X

There are several, esthetic reasons to theme your Windows XP to look like Mac OS X, but there are also functionality reasons: the dock vs. desktop icons/start menu, Windows Shade instead of minimizing, etc. You can do a complete overhaul or just skin a few apps.

First Option - The Easiest

Flyakite is a great tool for completely overhauling your Windows XP now or every time you format. It changes everything from the bootscreen, cursor, backgrounds, windows, sounds, icons, and gives you the option install various docks, shadows, etc. 

It does have downsides, the major one being that it modifies system files with those with embedded Mac OS X graphics. While I have not had any issues doing this, a quick search of google shows that people have had problems with Flyakite. Also, if you want to disable or undo the changes made, you may run into problems. There is an uninstaller provided but make sure to turn on your system restore just incase. I think it all has to do with your comfort level, I wouldn’t worry about causing major problems.

Second Method - Styler + App Skins

This method requires more work in that you will have to look for the themes, graphics, icons, etc. The first thing you need to do is download Styler, a Windows customizing app that I can’t live without. 

Next, you have to go out and hunt. You can take this part as far you like. If you just want a background, why are you reading this? Seriously though, if you just want a XP Theme (called a Visual Style) you can just look for that. If you want to make Firefox look like Safari, read this. Or if you want do a complete overhaul but pick and choose different looks.

The only issue is that there is a lot of crap out there, so here are some of the better sites I use:

• PimpMyDesk.org - Updated frequently with visual styles and skins for dozens of apps.
• Customize.org - Archives of visual styles, skins, themes, icons, and backgrounds.
• DeviantArt.com - Obligatory reference because it is the mecca of all things creative.

My Method - Best of Both Worlds

I like parts of both method, like Flyakite’s ability to change my icons but I like to have control over certain applications’ looks or applications, like VLC Player or RK Launcher as a dock. So what I do is run Flyakite and click customize and pick the boot screen, cursors, icons, and certain tweaks, like to remove drive letters from my computer, and then go out and find my own themes and application skins. 

Now that you’re done reading, open some tabs, look for some themes, and never look at your default XP desktop again.