What's this Chino Craze?

I have been scootering around the shops and internet on a mission to find a fab pair of chinos for the summer. I figured that it is time to grow up and ditch my staple wardrobe item, jeans, in favour of something more mature. Chinos conjure up (in my mind anyway) poplin shirts, crisp cotton chinos (rolled up or down) and loafers on a summer's day. Perhaps with a scarf thrown in for good measure. My search has proved harder than I initially thought that it would be. Chinos can be a bit of a dowdy wardrobe item. Just Google "Chinos" and you will find out why! There are some really awful boring and 'styless' designs out there! Just horrible!
I then searched for Ralph Lauren (the epitome of preppy style) and was relieved to see that they have come out with some fab designs for the summer. The price is also talking to me!  How does £89 sound for some really yummy slim line chino trousers?! Go check them out by clicking here!
I also like the No Knickers version from Minuet for a tiny £36. It is the petite version though so beware any leggy friends!
Coast have some lovely trousers/chinos for around the £70-80 mark. Dash is another label that does trousers for around the £40 mark. I am also liking Karen Millen's offering of cotton trousers for £99. Really cute with zip details on the front pockets and on the ankles. You also can't go past Gant for a good chino trouser. See the fab pair above.
Is this enough information? It is for me. I will be popping into the House of Fraser tomorrow to check out the Lauren by Ralph Lauren trousers.....Happy shopping ladies and gentlemen!!