Hey, all you really need is love, right? But why not love what you wear, too.

This spring, fashion designers are sweetening up their collections with all kinds of romantic notions from dreamy dresses to cotton candy colors. Even though there's still a chill in the winter air, you can still turn up the heat and put some romance into your wardrobe.

Start by softening up:

— With flirty dresses. The florals are flourishing this spring in watercolor palettes and neon brights. Artistic graphic prints are one of the newest ways designers have brushed up on romantic dresses, which gives them a decidedly vintage flair.

— With bow blouses. Whether you wear one by itself with a pair of soft trousers or layer it under a menswear suit, the silky blouses with statement-making bows are your best bet.

— With embellished tops. Think glistening sequins, metallic studs, or go for breezy crochet tops: the perfect companion for the season's longer maxi-skirts.

— With fuller skirts. Pencil skirts may still be a serious style-maker, but fuller A-line skirts in soft, floaty fabrics are another way to inject some freshness into your wardrobe. The newest? Longer mid-calf lengths!

— With flowing pants. A refreshing change from the skinny pants of the past year, trousers are turning up in easy-going wide-leg silhouettes this spring. Team them with snug tops and fitted jackets.

— With dolman sleeves. These roomy sleeves make any top or dress more interesting. And they're the perfect way to be cool and still cover up bare arms.

— With frothy lace. Inspired by vintage lingerie, lace is showing up in everything from dresses to skirts to tops; it is perfect for spring. Just throw on a fur or sweater if the weather doesn't cooperate!

— With neutrals. Neon brights may be all the rage this spring, but if you're a romantic softie, then stick to neutrals and stay cool in head-to-toe white or mix them with creamy tans.

— With jewelry. Charms are charming this spring, especially when hanging from a jeweled necklace. Sparkling pendants are also a great way to soften up your spring image. No more turtlenecks!

— With strappy sandals. The stiletto is back in bold colors and glamorous embellishments. Sky-high heels are not necessary, unless you are not stepping outside the house.

— With polished lips. Red lips are always romantic, but this spring, the pretty pinks and corals are smacking it up on the beauty scene.

— With tousled hair. Soft and romantic hair is long and loose and set off by center parts. Chic updos and twisted chignons are also making a style statement. And what could be more romantic than that?

Image: Designer Yoana Baraschi gives her spring collection the soft touch with graphic floral-print dresses. Photo courtesy of www.yoanabaraschi.com.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.