summer shorts and passing the "cool" test

Sewing for boys is a lot of fun.  Challenging at times.  But fun. 
The biggest challenge I face these days is passing the "cool test" with my now 5 year-old.  I would like to say that this is just a phase, but unfortunately I think we are in for the long haul, as he has been this way since age 2.  

Little brother on the other hand is the complete opposite, and could not care any less.  (Although, if given a choice he will always pick striped pajamas... and wear them ALL day, EVERY day.) 

So, when I decided to sew them more shorts (find the tutorial here), I thought it would be a good idea to use my oldest as a "cool" consultant.
I presented him with several dress shirts to pick from, and he chose the green/gray plaid for little brother, and the blue plaid for himself. 
I think the deciding factor for him was the "cool" yoke on the inside of the blue shirt (the design now on the the inside of the waistband pictured below) that he insisted I use that on his shorts.

The pockets were inspired by Dana's tutorial over at MADE, (just changing the shape a little).  They are lined with soft gray jersey.

Both pairs of shorts are made from thrifted shirts costing $0.50 each ($1.50 for all three), and by using a flat front style of shorts, I was able to save on elastic, bring the total cost to less than $2!
And the best part... I was given an A+ on the "cool" test!