When cinnamon lattes get traded in for caramel frappuccinos and students lock themselves in their rooms to study, we all know springtime is here. This time also marks the shortening of hemlines, the departure of tights and the debut of decollages. But what changes are coming in men's fashion? Gentlemen, here are some essential pieces for the spring and summer closet.

The Collegiate Flair
You're already in college. Why not look the part? The collegiate cardigan is a big trend this spring, especially since the Ivy League prep look is coming back in style. A gray, navy or black cardigan with a collegiate logo is not only a smart look, but a great way to represent your school. This is a look that is sure to carry over into the fall season; the pervasive prep look always re-emerges in one form or another.
Stock your wardrobe with cardigans, classy oxford flats and a daring, dapper blazer. It doesn't have to be structured and conservative — just think of what any private school boy would lust for.
"Blazers add an element of sophisticated chic to an otherwise simple ensemble," CAS freshman Jeff Jackson said. "Mixing a modern blazer with an old-school cardigan creates a timeless look of comfort and sophistication."

Leggings (and other innovative things)
If Vivienne Westwood can pull off menswear leggings in her fall show, why not see how it translates to the streets? It may be slightly quirky, perhaps even a bit eccentric, but avant-garde or retro nouveau makes for an interesting look. So be a little daring and go for leggings, volume and cutting-edge pieces. Experimentation goes a long way.
"I'd like to say that I am trying to make a statement, but that's not really the case," CAS freshman Christopher Van Cleave said. "I'm just wearing what interests me. As of now, that happens to be [a] cape and leggings. Girl's clothes? Yes, but only because society says so. What I wear, I wear simply because it entertains me."
He added: "Every morning I get dressed and look in the mirror and laugh because what I'm wearing is a little ridiculous. But it represents my creativity and my short attention span and my inclination to experiment."

Lana Lee is fashion editor. Natalie Adeeyo is a staff writer. E-mail them at fashion@nyunews.com.