There’s a kind of confidence you recognize immediately. Not because it seeks attention, but because it’s rooted, comfortable, and entirely real. When I first met Summer Puricelli, that’s what struck me. She carries herself with the kind of ease that can’t be taught: she knows who she is, what she brings to a room, and she does it without pretense.

Raised here in Old Westbury and shaped by the close-knit spirit of Wheatley, Summer grew up surrounded by creators, builders, and entrepreneurs—including in her own home. So it’s no surprise that she has carved out her own path with such clarity. Today, as the founder of SumthingStyled in New York City, she helps others find their own version of that confidence, one wardrobe at a time.

I was the new girl in fourth grade. Which, at the time, felt huge. But one of the first things I remember about Old Westbury is how people showed up for each other. They were kind, welcoming, and inclusive in a way that stuck with me, and it’s probably one of the reasons I value connection and community so deeply in both my personal life and my work now. 

I went to Wheatley—small class sizes, familiar faces, and a school where everyone felt like a friend. I was always creative, always obsessed with clothes and personal style, but it wasn’t just about fashion for me, I loved business too. I joined DECA, eventually became president, and knew from early on that building something of my own was the goal. I just didn’t know exactly what shape it would take yet. 

Looking back, I realize how much Old Westbury nurtured that entrepreneurial spirit. My parents built their own business, and many of my friends’ parents did the same. I was surrounded by people who took ownership of their work and created something from scratch. It made the idea of starting my own business feel less intimidating and more exciting. 

My career didn’t follow a straight path. I switched majors three times, tried on different versions of what I thought I “should” do, and ultimately came back to what felt natural: creating, styling, and helping people feel more like themselves through what they wear. I launched SumthingStyled, a New York–based personal styling business that does everything from closet edits and shopping, to vacation packing and event styling. It’s a little bit strategy, a little bit therapy, and a lot of trust. 

What I offer isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about seeing someone’s vision, even if they can’t fully articulate it yet, and helping them bring it to life. My job is to understand your lifestyle, your energy, what makes you feel confident, and then build a wardrobe around that. Think: your best friend, but in stylist form. It’s collaborative. It’s fun. It’s personal. 

Even though I live in the city now, Old Westbury still feels like home. My parents are here, many of my clients are based here, and I find myself constantly weaving between two worlds—the fast pace of New York and the familiarity of home. I’ll still go back to my favorite restaurants when I’m in town, sit around the same kitchen table I grew up at, and feel grateful that I was raised in a place that encouraged big dreams and deep roots.