Back-to-school fashion: The five trends you need to know

Back-to-school fashion: The five trends you need to know

Getting ready to head back to school? Already at your locker and running through the halls to get to class on time? Either way, it's best to do it in style.

According to the National Retail Federation's 2013 Back-to-School Survey, families with school-age children will shell out an average of $634.78 on apparel, shoes, supplies and electronics. Spending is expected to be down about 8 percent from last year, but the back-to-school business is still big -- with total back-to-school spending expected to reach $26.7 billion in 2013.

When it comes to your back-to-school wardrobe, what's worth spending money on? Getting a couple of new pieces could be all it takes to freshen up your look. The runway's micro-print trend is gaining traction this fall, and there's always a way to wear your favorite summer dress a little longer by pairing it with the right closed-toe shoes or boots and a couple of new accessories -- pair it with a blazer or cardigan and you're all set. And anything goes for dresses this season, from animal print and lace to floral and stripes.