The key to shopping thrift is to have an idea of what you’re looking for — if you go in without any sense of direction, it’s going to become overwhelming, and chances are you’ll either buy nothing, or items you’ll later regret. I found this sweater in a favorite vintage store of mine in Boston — Bobby’s — and at the time it reminded me of the way Alaia does pattern and texture, with the subtle duo-tone nature of the sweater. This sweater is a ribbed burgundy ridged in black, which gives it a great sense of pattern and texture as you see it move in person.

Cut to 2013 and I’m browsing the SSENSE website, which I love and lust after, and I come across this Versace sweater. Now I’m all for the designer look, but I don’t do knock offs, so the key to “recreating a look” is always breaking down what you like into certain details or aspects. Here it’s all about the color and texture of the sweater. Sure, the neckline is completely different, but like I said, it’s in paying attention to detail where you’ll find your pay off.

Versace Black & Ribbed Turtleneck from SSENSE

Photos courtesy Kristin Booker for Giafrese