I take it you don't apply an entire desktop if you have a visual style set in WB
you can apply dxtheme, wb skin, objectbar etc... together without problems

Are all of these images, icons, cursors etc. made with various OD programs, or made in programs like Photoshop?
Images are mostly done with graphics editors like Ms Paint, Photoshop,.... then put in SD software editor like SkinStudio, RightCLick editor, IconDeveloper,... to create skins/themes.
I think all of this is going to be a steep learning curve for an old guy like me.
there are some old skinners here don't worry

Just take the time to read tutorials here or on the
wincustomize wiki and it'll be more easier to understand or create skins