WHILE teachers rejoice as weeks of silence and child-free living stretches before them, parents are faced with the prospect of a summer filled with round-the-clock responsibility, shelling out copious amounts of cash and the presence of their hyper-active little bundles of love.

The end of July signals school holidays which in turn signals the time for all non-teachers to suddenly feel a surge of desire to take up the profession - 12 weeks holiday a year and all that paperwork can't be that bad can it!? - and the subsequent self pity that inevitably follows.

So us poor, lowly workers (who have only enough holidays to fill a month if we're lucky) and similarly poor, already exhausted parents are in need of a little retail therapy come July and August to lift that heavy burden of jealousy and sadness we carry around on our tear-stained, pale and laden shoulders.

Cart the kids off to any willing babysitter in sight - responsible 16 to 18 year-olds off school need something to do after all - and beat the blues with a trip to the shops and spend some money on yourself.

New 'things' are an instantaneous confidence booster. Which fool said money can't bring us happiness?

Be extravagant and treat yourself to an outfit that requires a night out if only to show it off.

Topshop has the perfect black evening dress at £36.

This sheer maxi by Glamorous is ideal for a posh meal out or black-tie style night out with friends.

It may be black but the shoulder-baring, cut out neck-line and translucent floor length skirt gives it a summery edge.

Its tight waist and short skirt underneath make it super flattering for all shapes.

Match with glittering heeled sandals and matching clutch for a sophisticated finish.

And for another slice of material happiness, why not indulge in a new bag?

New Look has a tan 'suedette' panel duffle bag for £15.99.

This over-the-shoulder accessory complete with on-trend fringed ties is ideal for a slouched weekend look large and smart enough for work.