The call to "make do and mend" rather than buy cheap, throwaway clothes is a blow for devotees of budget chains like Primark.

A report by the House of Lords' science and technology committee criticised the rising popularity of inexpensive high street clothes – because there is no incentive to repair them.

"The attitudes of individuals and organisations must be altered so waste is not just viewed as being costly, but as being socially unacceptable," it said.

"We must tackle the high rate of wasteful consumption that society has become accustomed to."

But budget buys were all the rage when we spoke to cash-strapped shoppers in King Street, South Shields.

Although the sun has not been shining much, it has not stopped people looking great.

It seems casual chic is the key look, with outfits teamed with bright accessories and people are taking style inspiration from the likes of Coleen Rooney and Cheryl Cole.

As any discerning fashion fan knows, cut-off denims – whether worn as three-quarter jeans or shorts – are a summer wardrobe essential and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

Flimsy, floral shirts and dresses are also a key look and oversized bags are proving to be a timeless classic.

Accessorise your look with bold statement jewellery – but remember not to go overboard.

A chunky, gem ring will set off any outfit, and if you are wearing flimsy tops, complement the look with a dainty necklace.

Linen trousers have also made a comeback this summer and worn with a stylish sandal or flip flop, they will give anyone a flattering look.

Smartly-dressed Stacey Gray, 22, from Whiteleas, South Shields, had just been for a job interview and was looking cool and confident.

All her items were bought from Dorothy Perkins for about £60 and the black waistcoat over the white shirt gives the outfit edge.

When not dressed for an interview, Stacey said she likes to dress down in casual clothes.

Kelsey Ross, 16, has just left school and will be starting a travel and tourism course at college in September.

Her striped T-shirt, with ruffled sleeves, is from Internacionale and her skinny jeans are from the Gratton catalogue.

"I don't really have a style icon, I just wear what I want and like to mix and match my clothes," she said.