How do I make sexy user interfaces in Java [closed]

Question

I am planning to develop a desktop application that allows to manage client data. I am an experienced Java programmer but I have never really been able to do attractive interfaces in Java, for instance, I personally think the default Swing components are horrible (when I compare it for example with a recent web interface).

So first question would be, how can I make sexy interfaces in Java (that still run on all platforms) ? Secondly, wouldn't it be a good idea to make the interface in HTML5? Isn't it possible to run an HTML5 interface without a web server, as I don't need the application to be accessible online, thus I don't need a server.

Answer 1

The default Metal Look and Feel is not too attractive, I agree, but there are other Look and Feels for Java. Nimbus is included in the JRE since Java SE 6 Update 10, which is newer than Metal and looks cooler, you might wanna check that out:

http://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/uiswing/lookandfeel/nimbus.html

Also there are many external Look and Feels which you can download and bundle with your application. Some examples:

http://geeknizer.com/best-java-swing-look-and-feel-themes-professional-casual-top-10/

http://www.java2s.com/Product/Java/Swing/Look-And-Feel-LaF.htm