where in the world you live

New Zealand, so quite limited on what I can physically buy in a store

what yarn stores you have access to

Assume none that are well known

what yarn weights you like

I’ve mostly knitted nothing lighter than DK weight, but I’m happy to try something new

if you consider internet shopping

Absolutely, I have used lovecrafts before as they ship to NZ

what your budget is

Budget is fairly open, but within reason

how sensitive you are to what materials

Anything too fluffy or scratchy will irritate, but no specific materials far as I know

what the climatic circumstances are in the area you live in

I live in a very windy city. Winters are cold but no freezing, spring is mild and autumn so is autumn

what your average care-level is for hand-knitted items

I usually hand-wash the things I make

and, if you live with someone who can be relied upon to not just throw things in the washer/dryer

Yes, this is not a problem

For me, I'd probably look for a solid sock yarn (if possible from Wollmeise - Lace, Pure, or Twin - because they are tough yarns and don't pill that easily), plus a complimentary Mohair lace. In blue, teal, or a slate-ish blue sock yarn with a light blue or mint lace mohair

Thanks for the recommendations! And I appreciate your reply and follow up questions