This summer, be too cool for school . .

THE ripped, worn-out, permanently grass-stained uniforms have been thrown away. The now shabby shoes are relegated to the bin too. Homework books, lunchboxes and satchels have been stored until August. It's official: school's out for summer.

Mums in and around the Capital have organised the summer's entertainment to keep those little darlings occupied . . . and to prevent that favourite summertime phrase "Mum, I'm bored!"

They may even have planned a whole summer of school holiday fun, but what on earth should they be wearing?

"Kids' fashion is now just that – fashion," says Edinburgh personal shopper Louise Bannerman. "Kidswear now taps into summer key trends offering little ones stylish clothing, while remaining durable, good quality and comfortable.

"This summer you'll find that everything from spots, stars and stripes to floral prints, checks and pops of colour are available en mass for that mini-me effect."

For boys, it's all about the casual street look, courtesy of striped polo shirts, logo T-shirts in strong colours and printed checks.

Stylish army pocket details appear on trousers and cargo pants, while jeans and long shorts are overtly casual – and importantly, comfortable. Next, Debenhams, Adams Kids, Tesco and TKMaxx have some of the best boyswear around.

While boys will be boys, fashions for the girls are pretty, with injections of funk. There are gingham print dresses, spotted blouses, quirky ruffle-trim playsuits, drop-waist dresses, embellished cotton tops, ruffle denim skirts, colour block maxi-dresses and cute sun dresses in a range of summery fabrics, prints and colours.

Visit Monsoon, Matalan, Next, Adams Kids and Debenhams for the very best in on-trend girlswear.

"The key is to pick out relaxed items that they can breathe in and run about in – there's nothing worse than feeling constricted," says Louise.

"But style for kids is just as important, especially today when they are increasingly self-aware at a younger age.

"By picking up on main fashion trends and finding the mini-me inspired alternative, they will feel good and look good."

So there you have it – children's fashion – and not a tear or tantrum in sight.