When Windows Live Messenger 9 Beta was released, we all thought skinning would be impossible. I guess that the new version of Windows Live Messenger hasn't killed skinning completely. The folks over at Design Evolved have broken the restrictions imposed in the new version and have now publicly released a working skin called Sopair.

Although this skin isn't a traditional skin that completely changes the look and feel of Windows Live Messenger, it gives a few cool options for its users. This is just the beginning of what we will be seeing in the next couple of months when Windows Live Messenger 9 final is released. At least we know that it is possible to change the look of Windows Live Messenger. So what are the features?

• Ability to switch from modern and classic Messenger layouts
• Add a 3rd display picture to the chat window
• Ability to move chat window display pictures to the right side
• Enhance alerts to make them suit the new design better
• Sign in window matches the design better
• Ability to restore the send button in chat windows
• Ability to hide button text
• Ability to hide buttons
• Hide "what's new" and tabs
• Use the new Messenger icons in the Messenger Plus! tabbed chat bar
• ... and more!

Note: Messenger Plus! Live v4.79 is required to use the skin and it is only compatible with the Windows Live Messenger v14.0.5027.908.

Download: Sopair skin
Download: Messenger Plus! Live 4.79