Question: Expanding on [How can I make Windows 8 use the classic theme?](https://superuser.com/questions/513492/how-can-i-make-windows-8-use-the-classic-theme) and [Windows 10 TenForums: Windows Classic Look Theme in Windows 10](http://www.tenforums.com/customization/11432-windows-classic-look-theme-windows-10-a.html) -- how does one use Windows 10 with the old classic theme?

[![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/cwmlt.png)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/cwmlt.png)

There's a [Windows 10 theme over at DeviantArt](http://kizo2703.deviantart.com/art/Windows-classic-theme-for-Windows-8-RTM-8-1-10-325642288) but it does not work with the final RTM:

[![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/dUZHw.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/dUZHw.jpg)

Also, your vote over at [Windows 10 UserVoice: Windows Classic Look Theme in Windows 10](https://windows.uservoice.com/forums/265757-windows-feature-suggestions/suggestions/9193677-windows-classic-look-theme-in-windows-10) would be much appreciated.

Answer: 
Have a look at this thread:

<http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=67&t=113024&p=777781&hilit=classictheme#p777781>

They're discussing/testing how to modify windows binary files to "get back" to classic interface by "unusual" methods, rather than just turning colors into gray!
But it appears to be very complex due to totally different structure of explorer, windows manager and whatelse in Windows 10 w.r.t. previous versions.
Note: be sure to create a restore point before running ClassicTheme.exe for testing! It can screw up whole interface!

For the start menu, things are easier thanks to ClassicShell: <http://www.classicshell.net/gallery/>

Additionally, try googling for:
Classic AE by Saarineames (download from deviantart)
Aero Lite Theme (among other things, make windows border larger than one pixel, for better resize and better visibility)

You can also play (carefully) with registry keys:

* HKEY\_CURRENT\_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\DWM *(you can add **AccentColorInactive** key here, or edit existing keys)*
* KEY\_CURRENT\_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize

<http://www.thewindowsclub.com/get-colored-window-title-bar-windows-10>

Ultimate Windows Tweaker is also an amazing tool:

<http://www.thewindowsclub.com/image-gallery-for-uwt4>
Its impossible to change it to:

[![Windows XP](https://i.stack.imgur.com/YMIdr.png)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/YMIdr.png)

If you are REALLY desperate for the classic theme, [downgrade to Windows 7](http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/how-to/windows/roll-back-windows-7-from-windows-8-3459580/). Or go along with this

[![Windows 8 Version of classic](https://i.stack.imgur.com/irtmo.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/irtmo.jpg)