Just when the thought of pulling on another sweater was becoming too much to bear, it arrived—that sweet perfume in the air, sun-stretched days and a warm evening haze that can only signal one thing: spring. And while florals may be the obvious sartorial choice for the season, there’s nothing we’d rather be wearing right now.

When it comes to petal-print dresses, we’re spoiled for choice. All of our favourite designers are turning out floral frocks cut just the way we like them: mid length, with a sleeve, and straddling the sweet spot between form fitting and floaty. And though spring-fresh shades of green, yellow and pink are a welcome respite from heavy winter hues, if you struggle to get on board with an ultra-feminine aesthetic, look for a dress that sets the traditionally sweet motif against a dark backdrop for a little extra edge.

It’s also easy to explore a more abstract approach to the spring fashion classic by subbing a dress for separates that allow you to clash multiple floral patterns together. Think overblown wallpaper blooms teamed with a delicate micro print. Just try to incorporate at least one low-key hue, such as white, that will help give the eyes a visual breather.

And although we’re not in complete denial about the fact that, while it’s warming up, spring still has its fair share of unpredictable weather, it simply doesn’t matter. The beauty of a full floral look is that you can throw a teddy bear coat or leather trench on top, and it works. Better yet, add a pair of boots—it’s called contrast and it looks damn good.