Graphic Design vs. Usability
http://experiencedynamics.blogs.com/site_search_usability/2004/04/index.html

Spillers, Frank
Demystifying Usability
2004

Abstract:

When the philosophy of the 'skin interface' is applied to other applications, it becomes problematic. There is nothing wrong with that concept as long as it is clear that it only works with highly specialized applications such as Winamp. It is even culturally expected in the Winamp community that skins will be created and made available.