I make SSMS look good.
Save your eyes with themes and scenes that fit your style.
Download for Windows
SQL Shades v2.0.1091 · 2026-10-15 · SSMS 18–22
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What is SQL Shades?
Shades is the best dark mode, theming, and scene solution for SQL Server Management Studio 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22!
What's a scene?
A theme plus a few animated effects in the SSMS editor that react to what you're doing: lightning on an error, a neon trail as you type, data rain on a phosphor screen, etc. Learn more about and preview scenes →
How do I get the dark theme in SSMS?
Just install the SQL Shades extension and it'll darken everything automatically, including what SSMS' dark mode misses.
Does SSMS have a dark mode?
Via the SQL Shades plugin, yes! Otherwise, since SSMS uses the Visual Studio shell, you can hack its config to enable Visual Studio's dark mode. There's a glaring reason the SSMS devs disabled it, though: Only controls from Visual Studio are themed. Window border and code editor? Yes. Object explorer and other elements unique to SSMS? No.
Does SQL Shades darken everything, then?
SQL Shades themes the things you use on a daily basis and is getting more complete with every release. See any blatant omissions? Check the Roadmap to see if it's already on the list, and give it a vote!
Are there any settings I can tweak?
Oh yeah! You can open the settings dialog from the Tools → SQL Shades Settings menu, then flip switches, drag sliders, etc.
Do I need to buy a license to use SQL Shades at work?
You may use the free version wherever you like 😊
Can you send me an email when new versions are released?
Sure! Click here to sign up.
Have more questions?
See the documentation for more answers.
Download SQL Shades
Enjoy all the darkness your heart desires.
Download for Windows
SQL Shades v2.0.1091 · 2026-10-15 · SSMS 18–22
About Me
Michael Van Devender
Software strategist and full-stack developer with 2+ decades of experience bending technology to my will.
This is a standing invitation:
If you want to talk software, I want to talk with you.
Email is the best way to reach me. I read all of it and usually reply. You won’t annoy me by reaching out. Worst case I’m busy and forget to answer. If you have something interesting to share or a good question to ask, send it!
Articles
SQL Shades is making a scene
Themes set the mood; scenes act it out.
Bringing Back the Blue Theme SSMS 22 Dropped
Why it wasn't a simple color swap, and how I did it anyway.
Color‑Safe SQL: Colorblind‑Friendly Themes for SSMS
Making SSMS more accessible for colorblind users with colorblind-safe themes.
A Love Letter to Dark Mode
A sappy serenade praising the virtues of working in the dark.
Now that you've joined the dark side, SSMS is halfway modern.
What is the other half?
Version control.