a pop of plaid

I'm convinced that plaid is one of fashion's most versatile patterns. When paired with neutral tones and palettes, it's a great statement-maker. It's also perfect for mixing prints (plaid + polka dots? Why not?) and even looks great head-to-toe (I'm proud to say that I own a plaid suit and it is fabulous).

For this look, I opted to go the simpler, less cluttered route. I paired this plaid pencil skirt with all-black-everything, save for this amazing Perry Street statement necklace that came in my March Rocksbox. This piece is a real spotlight-stealer on its own, but against such a dark palette, it truly (and literally) shines. And don't forget, you can get your first month of Rocksbox FREE by entering rivasravesxoxo at checkout. Time is running out to try this fabulous service at no charge, so jump to it!

My other favorite parts of this look are the coat and clutch. The coat belongs to the Scandal Collection at The Limited, with which I have a borderline obsession. I mean, I want everything in that collection. All of the pieces evoke such a take-charge, yet elegant sense of style that we gladiators have come to expect from Olivia Pope. This coat is no different. It features a tacked stand collar and a concealed zipper, giving it this super clean and minimalist look. The 3/4 sleeves make it easy to wear well into the spring season.

As for the clutch (which I previously featured in my last post), I cannot stop wearing it. I have a bit of a confession to make: I'm really not that much of a handbag gal. I'm more into clothes and shoes. I have a few handbags/purses/totes that I rotate from time to time, but for the most part I stick with what I like. Plus, I'm not a fan of switching purses often because of all the work involved (even tossing my wallet into my gym bag feels like a hassle). So when I find something that can be worn with virtually anything, I'm sold. I've been searching for the perfect black clutch for what feels like years. Some were too big, others too small. Some were difficult to carry, others had gangling straps that were bothersome. Not this one. It really is the perfect black clutch. If you've been on the hunt like me, definitely scoop this one up before it's gone!