Themes For Any Budget
Let’s face it – unfair or not – we are judged in seconds about how we look. The same thing is true with websites, so it’s a good idea to put your best foot forward and implement the best design you can.
The current version of WordPress comes pre-installed with the Twenty11 theme. But what if you want a different look? There are a few options, from more expensive to almost free:
- Create a custom design that is all your own
- Implement a commercial theme and tweak it
- Implement a free theme and tweak it
Free and premium (or paid) themes can easily be found in any Google search. But how do you find a good theme? What makes it good? Here are ContentRobot’s recommendations for choosing a good WordPress theme:
The Official WordPress Repository
- Over a thousand free themes can be yours for the taking
- Choose the number of columns, color scheme, and other features
- http://wordpress.org/extend/themes
Themes Created By Reputable Developers
- Good premium themes often provide more features and customizations
- Often allows you to get access to various levels of support
- Woothemes
- StudioPress
- iThemes
- Press75
- Templatic
- Elegant Themes
- Headway
Themes Promoted By Reputable Bloggers
- Themers who push the envelop a bit more are often showcased on design sites
- These themes offer more distinctive looks, allowing your blog to stand out more
- http://www.devlounge.net/design/the-best-looking-free-wordpress-3-ready-themes
- http://www.wpjedi.com/best-elegant-themes-wordpress-themes
- http://speckyboy.com/2010/04/15/30-brand-new-quality-wordpress-themes
- http://www.ourtuts.com/30-premium-wordpress-themes-of-february-2010
- http://www.instantshift.com/2010/02/19/60-latest-high-quality-free-wordpress-themes
- http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2010/08/19/100-free-high-quality-wordpress-themes-for-2010
- http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2009/11/12/40-free-high-quality-wordpress-themes
- http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2008/08/25/30-free-high-quality-wordpress-themes
- http://www.noupe.com/wordpress/15-high-quality-premium-like-free-wordpress-themes.html
- http://sixrevisions.com/resources/50-beautiful-free-wordpress-themes/
- http://webdesignfan.com/25-free-high-quality-wordpress-themes-for-professional-blogging/
How Do You Know If Your Theme Measures Up?
- Put it through its paces with WordPress’ Theme Checker tool: http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/tac
- Check the code with these tools: HTML markup validator and CSS validator
- Test that it looks and acts the same in all modern browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Safari, and Internet Explorer)