If you love the clean and polished look of Xubuntu but prefer the rock-solid base of Debian, you're in luck. With just a few simple steps, you can replicate the default Xubuntu theme on your Debian XFCE setup.
Step 1: Install the Greybird Theme and Icon Set
Open your terminal and run:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install greybird-gtk-theme elementary-xfce-icon-theme xfce4-whiskermenu-plugin
- Greybird is the GTK theme used in Xubuntu.
- elementary-xfce provides the icon set.
- Whisker Menu is a modern application menu featured in Xubuntu.
Step 2: Apply the Theme and Icons
Head to:
- Settings Manager > Appearance
- Set Style to Greybird
- Set Icons to elementary-xfce
Then go to:
- Settings Manager > Window Manager
- Set Theme to Greybird
Step 3: Switch to Whisker Menu (Optional)
- To add the Whisker Menu to your panel:
- Right-click on the panel > Panel > Add New Items
- Search for and add Whisker Menu
- Remove the default menu if you prefer
Now your Debian XFCE system should look almost identical to Xubuntu — minimal, elegant, and user-friendly. Perfect for those who want style without sacrificing stability.
