Someone please convince me that summer knits are worth it

I'm somewhat new to knitting and about to finish my first sweater, so I'm looking for the next thing to knit. I want to make something for myself, and since it's almost March and I live in California, a summer knit makes more sense. But I just can't find anything I want to commit to. They all seem either unflattering, uncomfortable, or like they would just be boring to knit.

I'm all for body positivity, forgetting about what's flattering, etc. But I realistically won't wear something I'm not comfortable in. Like a crop top or something super form-fitting. I also won't reach for something with spaghetti straps/low arm holes that I can't wear a normal bra with. I'm not really into the lacy/see-through tops that you wear over a cami. Or the short-sleeved sweaters that are going to be too hot for hot days but leave your arms cold on cold days.

What's left are plain t-shirts or tank tops, which all seem to have awkward fits and are just rows and rows of stockinette stitch in lightweight yarns that must be painfully slow-going. I love colorwork, but I understand it's probably too thick for hot weather tops. Maybe something with stripes could be an idea, but I just have trouble finding options that don't have the other issues I mentioned.

There are so many beautiful sweaters tempting me, but I don't want to start a winter piece that I'll finish in the Spring/early Summer.

Does anyone else have this issue? Should I just accept that this is a winter hobby? I know I can knit non-wearable, but one only needs so many market bags and washcloths.