How to pick knits: six questions to ask before buying that cardigan

How does it feel? Does it fit? Is there a standard? How to tell the quality of a knit in just a few questions. Photograph: Scottish Viewpoint/Alamy

In the 12 months I’ve spent moving between Melbourne and Sydney, I’ve learned that Sydneysiders treat winter like it’s just for fun.

At this time of year, the difference is most apparent in the morning. In Sydney, I’m still walking to yoga in shorts. In Melbourne I’m waking up to frosted windows and clouds of mist, then reaching for my favourite knitwear – some of which I’ve had for years.