Yes. You just need to make sure that the JAR with custom L&F classes is in the classpath and specify the --laf option when starting NB.

To add the JAR with L&F classes to the classpath, use the --cp:p option.

Alternatively, to force NB to use the Java cross-platform L&F (Metal/Ocean), specify javax.swing.plaf.metal.MetalLookAndFeel as the L&F class.

Note: NB is not being regularly tested with alternate look and feel implementations.Various implementations may or may not work well.

Examples

Running with the JGoodies' Plastic XP look and feel:

  netbeans --cp:p C:\looks-1.2.2.jar 
     --laf com.jgoodies.plaf.plastic.PlasticXPLookAndFeel

Running with the winlaf look and feel:

  netbeans --cp:p C:\winlaf-0.5.1.jar 
     --laf net.java.plaf.windows.WindowsLookAndFeel

Running NB on MacOS X, but using the Metal L&F:

Edit:

/Applications/NetBeansIDE5.0Beta.app/Contents/Resources/NetBeans/etc/netbeans.conf

so that the line beginning netbeans_default_options includes the option:

   --laf javax.swing.plaf.metal.MetalLookAndFeel

Source: NetBeans User FAQ

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