After forging a formidable career in women’s fashion — a pursuit that took her from Puerto Rico to New York City, Hong Kong, Bali, Australia, Miami and back to Puerto Rico again — Pure Soul owner Sylma Cabrera found her home and purpose in the last place she ever thought to look: tiny Shelter Island.
The story of how she came here is one that starts with a near-tragedy. Her original shop was in her native Old San Juan and was destroyed in 2017’s brutal Hurricane Maria. That brought her and her daughter to the Island at the invitation of a friend to escape and recuperate from the devastation. But a funny thing happened on the way to the ferry line when she was finally ready to leave town and re-build. She came across the store front with a “for rent” sign on Bridge Street that quite literally stopped her in her tracks. It was the fresh start she didn’t know she needed.
Six years later, her irresistible women’s clothing and gift shop, Pure Soul at 183 North Ferry Road (or Bridge Street, as the locals call it), is chock full of flowing, colorful and summer-white linen dresses, tops, skirts and beach cover ups. Plus everything from delicate necklaces and earrings to bold statement jewelry, espadrilles, hats, home accents and even a thoughtfully selected book or two. Nearly everything you need to outfit a perfect summer day.
But it’s not just the allure of retail here; Cabrera is a special sort. Her kindness, warm smile and ever-welcoming, gentle nature make Pure Soul feel… well, good for the soul. Even if you just stop in to say hi to Cabrera and her friendly staff, you’ll walk out feeling like a breezy million bucks.
Here are a few of Sylma Cabrera’s favorite things:
Favorite place to hear music
Oh, I love going to the Shipwreck and Salt. It’s open and casual and relaxed, and I run into a lot of people that I know. It always feels like a family. The bartenders are consistent; they‘re the same people you’ve seen year after year, so they know you. It’s got that kind of familiarity. I also like the fact that they have the food truck, and if you want a little snack or something light, you can pick up something to eat and enjoy the music.
Favorite summer social event
I love the Pridwin barbecue on Wednesdays! It’s a great gathering for locals— it’s open and family style and everyone is mingling. It feels like a special occasion. The staff is incredibly happy and joyful. It just feels very welcoming. I love that.
Favorite place to clear your head
Mashomack. I go there for my walks. There is a gazebo there—it’s magic. I just go there and I sit, no telephone. I just either meditate or stare at the water. It’s my magic place.
Favorite restaurant for a casual meal with your daughter
My go-to is Isola. Brad [Kitkowski] is always going to welcome me with a hug and a smile.
Favorite restaurant for guests
Vine Street. If I’m going out with my girlfriends who are all business owners, or if I’m entertaining someone I don’t know well, I know Vine Street will deliver good service and consistent, good food.
Favorite flower purveyor
Superflowers! My friend Marianne DiOrio—when I saw the magnificence of these flowers that she’s growing, that’s it. There’s no other place for me.
Favorite activity on the water
The women’s Sip and Sail at the Shelter Island Yacht Club. I have friends and customers that sail and they often invite me, and I go as much as I can. The women get together and they sail, and then they have some little drinks after the sailing—but not before! I guess it’s actually Sail and Sip.
Favorite local winery
One Woman. I got to meet [owner Claudia Purita] and she’s cool. I was taken by her story and by the fact that she’s in her overalls working her farm. And the wine is very good. If I have to take friends to do a tasting, I start with her.
