Everyone likes a few new togs before going on their summer holidays, and children are no different. Plus, they've probably grown upwards and outwards since last year's can-still-get-into-them-but-can't-dance shorts, T-shirt and sandal ensemble.

Holiday buys can be cheap and cheerful. Look for easy-wearing fabrics which will last, like cotton and denim, bright colours and fun designs - and if you can find them in the sales, even better!

So whether it's a staycation or a sunny escape, stock up on these holiday treats...

BEACHY BREAKS

Off to a sun-filled sandy land? Swimwear, cover-ups and waterproof shoes are all kids really need, and maybe a handy bag for all their beachy finds.

"We all love to look the part when on holiday and half the excitement is getting our holiday wardrobe ready," says Tim Juckes, Paul Frank commercial director UK. "Essentials such as T-shirts and long shorts, light skirts and dresses are great for sheltering exposed limbs on the beach, and the good news is, there are countless designs to choose from. Opt for eye-catching prints and they won't begrudge covering up!"

:: Portofino Top, £45.50 - reduced from £65 (www.lovemadelove.com)

:: Printed Kaftan, from £9 (www.peacocks.co.uk)

:: Chlorine Resistant Lycra Xtra Life Swimsuit, from £11 (www.marksandspencer.com)

:: Dinosaur Hooded Towel, £7 (www.george.com)

:: Nevada Messenger Bag, £16 (www.marksandspencer.com)

:: Waders, from £18.75 - reduced from £37.50 and available in a variety of colours for boys and girls (www.geox.com)

SUNNY ESCAPES

Jetting off overseas can mean you'll need a variety of outfits. Stylish sunnies and smart-casual togs for dinners are a must, and how about investing in their very own suitcase - to lighten the load of yours?

"Everyone loves a holiday in the sun, but it's important to keep comfortable," advises Zoe Woolls, design manager at Mamas & Papas. "Loose-fitting, breathable cotton clothing is a great way to combat the heat. You could also add a lightweight jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings."

:: Jersey Maxi Dress, £8 - reduced from £12 (www.peacocks.co.uk)

:: Palm Print Swimming Trunks, £21 - reduced from £45 (www.fiveboysclothing.com)

:: Marvel Ultimate Suitcase, £85 (www.samsonite.co.uk)

:: Babiators in Princess Pink Junior, £21.99 (www.naturalbabyshower.co.uk)

:: Straw Weave Trilby Hat, £10 (www.marksandspencer.com)

:: Sun-San Saltwater Sandals - Sweetheart, in Shiny Fuchsia, from £38 (www.naturalbabyshower.co.uk)

STYLISH STAYCATION

Chilling at home requires clothing for sun and shade, thanks to our wonderfully British climate. Opt for fun and comfort and you won't go far wrong.

"With the UK's notoriously unpredictable weather, staycation style is all about making sure you're prepared," says Juckes. "The little ones might get hot running around, but there's always the chance of that downpour, so ensure you pack an array of different items and layers, from basic tees to raincoats, and sandals to wellies. Pack for every eventuality!"

:: Diplodocus Custom Baby Grow, £22 (www.nhmshop.co.uk)

:: F&F T-shirt, £9 for a pack of three; Floral Shirt, £7, and Shorts, £9 - available from mid-August (www.f-f.com)

:: Fabric Flavours Girls Paul Frank T-Shirt, £16 (www.houseoffraser.co.uk)

:: Viscose Bibsuit, £7 - reduced from £10 (www.peacocks.co.uk)

:: Neon Orange Tutu, from £49 (www.angels-face.co.uk)

:: Bobux Empire trainers in Pink, £42 (www.bobux.co.uk)

GET THE LOOK

If you fancy following in Kate Middleton's footsteps, you can literally step into them, by snapping up the Sebago shoes she was sporting at the recent America's Cup World Series. As with most items the Duchess of Cambridge gets photographed in, these are currently out of stock, but visit the website and you can be notified the second they're back in and available. Sebago Bala shoes in Taupe Suede/White, £89.99 (www.sebago.com).

BUY IT NOW

Once the sun goes down, temperatures can drop, so if you're on home turf this summer, be sure to pack a jumper. We're 'mutty' about this woofin' lovely dog design by Sugarhill Boutique, available late August. Frankie Beagle Intarsia Sweater in Grey marl, £44 (www.sugarhillboutique.com)

FASHION FLASH

:: THE HAIR BEAR BUNCH

We've all had a bad hair day. But according to a new survey by Vosene Kids, despite 84% of us recalling childhood hair horrors, 42% have gone on to give their own children a bad barnet. "We have almost all been the victim of a bad haircut in the past, from being overly scissor-happy as a child to sporting a dodgy hairstyle - this is all part and parcel of growing up and a rite of passage for a lot of children," says hair stylist and make-up artist Charlotte Hayward. "What is interesting about the research is that hair mishaps continue no matter what experiences we've had, with parents continuing to let their children follow in their footsteps!" For tips and how-to videos to help avoid future hair harassment, visit www.vosenekids.co.uk

:: BOARDROOM BABES

We love a bit of shoulder pad action when it comes to workwear, don't we? A new survey, commissioned by fashion e-tailer Kaleidoscope, has revealed that British women see themselves as a nation of 'power dressers' when it comes to their work wardrobes - with Michelle Obama (53%), Samantha Cameron (31%) and Victoria Beckham (18%) leading the way as the celebrities most admired for their professional style. Blazers at the ready, ladies...

:: STYLE STEAL

The summer holidays fly by and before you know it, parents will be back at the school gate ready for a brand new year. If you want to take the pain out of shopping for school shoes, check out the Autumn/Winter 2015 Junior Geox range. For every purchase, kids will receive a Geox Beat Time voice-activated watch, available in five different colours. Offer available until Setember 27, while stocks last (www.geox.com)