How can you make a .net windows forms project look fresh?

Question

I\'m working on a visual studio 2005 vb.net windows forms project that\'s been around for several years. It\'s full of default textboxes, labels, dropdowns, datagrids, datetime

Answer 1

I recommend purchasing a good 3rd-party control library - Infragistics and DevExpress, are just a couple. Most of these libraries give you the ability to drop in new compatible controls on top of your existing ones - for example, you can replace the default EditBox with an enhanced version. They also give you access to some of the snazzy new UIs such as Ribbon, or the Outlook-style navigator people are always wanting.

The reason I specifically recommend using one of these libraries is that they were designed to be relatively easy to use in existing applications, you get support, a community, and all sorts of upgrade paths/options.

The downside: money.