By Paul Gary/Reported by David Ellis

Female candidates who could make 1990 a vintage year:

Diane Feinstein - Democrat; California Governor?

She's talking tough on capital punishment and carrying the pro-choice banner, but faces a tough primary and then Republican Senator Pete Wilson.

Claudine Schneider - Republican; Rhode Island Senator?

An independent-minded Congresswoman who could convince voters that it's time to retire the stuporific Claiborne Pell.

Josie Heath - Democrat; Colorado Senator?

A surprising liberal primary candidate for the state's open seat, the former Boulder County commissioner can expect trial by negative ads this summer.

Ann Richards - Democrat; Texas Governor?

She triumphed in a mud-slinging primary, and can keep smiling if opponent Clayton Williams keeps putting his boot on his mouth.

Lynn Martin - Republican; Illinois Senator?

After five congenial terms in the House, she has the gumption to oppose Paul Simon. This New-Deal-man vs. Republican-woman contest is a model for the '90s.

Patricia Saiki - Republican; Hawaii Senator?

The only Republican ever elected to the House from Hawaii, she met last week with George Bush, who urged her to seek the late Spark Matsunaga's seat.