SIX PICKS: Jess Vargas of Adobe
Meet Adobe, a curated outpost in Carlsbad, California, with a signature sun-drenched earthiness and a collection of vintage finds and maker-driven goods from artisans near and far. Owner and interior stylist Jess Vargas platforms sustainable makers with unique stories — gathering handmade artifacts that build personal, intentional interiors.
From custom block-printed pillows and Guatemalan woodworks to hand-inscribed jewelry, Jess shared the treasures she’s found at Shoppe Object and on her many travels around the world. Scroll on to discover her favorite picks.
What kind of products or objects are you most drawn to right now?
I’m constantly inspired by texture and color—it’s how I naturally see the world. Lately, I’m especially drawn to the contrast of high and low textures: think earthy naturals paired with deep, rich tones and just the right touch of glam.
Handmade pieces always speak to me the loudest, especially ceramics. There’s something soulful about the imperfect beauty of pottery. My spaces—both at home and in my shops—are always brimming with one-of-a-kind ceramic finds.
What is the best purchase you’ve made for yourself this year?
One of the best purchases I’ve made this year is a handmade ceramic piece I found at the Long Beach Flea Market. I source a lot of items from local flea markets and thrift stores, and every now and then, I come across something I just can’t part with—it ends up joining my ever-growing collection of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces at home. This particular ceramic piece is vintage, and its shape and color palette are absolutely stunning—truly unlike anything I’ve seen before. It’s hard to even describe! I bought it from one of my favorite vendors, who always curates the most interesting and special finds. She’s one of my first stops every time I go.
Name an item that you can’t seem to keep in stock!
Right now, it’s a tie between our Filling Spaces pillow collections and Melissa De La Fuente’s jewelry pieces. Such different items, but we can’t seem to keep either in stock! Both are made-to-order brands, which already adds a layer of uniqueness—each piece feels like it was made just for the customer.
We love working with Filling Spaces because we’re able to truly customize each pillow and create collections that feel exclusive to Adobe. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are unmatched. The same goes for Melissa De La Fuente’s jewelry—each piece feels deeply personal, like a tiny work of art. Her designs carry meaning and story, which really resonates with our customers.
What’s your personal go to for retail therapy? Like, where do you shop to feel good?
It might sound a little cheesy, but buying for the stores is truly my version of retail therapy. I get to connect with brands and makers I genuinely admire, discover beautiful products, and support people doing work they’re passionate about.
It’s both inspiring and energizing—and honestly, my store budget is much better than my personal one, so it’s a win-win!
Favorite Shoppe Online brand discovery?
One of my favorite Shoppe Online brand discoveries has to be Itza Wood and La Casa.
In March 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala for a local market showcasing artisan brands and makers. I was lucky enough to meet both founders in person and spend time with them in their environment—experiencing the culture, people, and traditions that inspire their work. Getting to see their pieces in that setting made a lasting impression, so seeing their collections available online through Shoppe was such a treat. It feels incredibly special to support brands with such meaningful roots and stories behind them.
JESS’S PICKS
No. 1
THE POWER RING
MELISSA DE LA FUENTE
“I wear it every day. It is perfect to add to any stack or wear solo. It is a little reminder of the power we all hold.”
No. 2
RUSTIC MODERN PILLOW
DISTANT ECHO
“Another brand we’ve had the pleasure of working with for years—we were so excited to see them join the Shoppe Object family! The founders’ care and dedication to detail are truly unmatched. They’ve beautifully reimagined traditional techniques, creating modern patterns and designs that still honor their roots. This pillow, with its unique and thoughtfully crafted closure detail, feels especially special.”
No. 3
ZUMA AMBER TUMBLER
SERAX
“I love the gradient of color—these pieces look beautiful whether they’re filled with your favorite cocktail or simply sitting on a shelf. This whole collection is one of my favorites.”
No. 4
SHIPIBO LUMBAR PILLOW
INTIEARTH
“This is one of my all-time favorites. Each pattern is completely unique and serves as a visual representation of an Ikaros—a sacred healing song received during spiritual ceremonies. These intricate designs trace the invisible pathways of the spirit, symbolizing protection, connection, and transformation. I love mixing these pillows with solids or other patterns—they add the perfect touch of funk and soul to any space.”
No. 5
PELSSAU SHEEPSKIN
SKYESKYNS
“This was a new brand for us this year, and I completely fell in love. Their pieces make the perfect gift or addition to your home as we head into the holiday season. The softness and texture of their throws and pillows are absolute perfection. Another reason we love them: it’s a women-owned and operated business, driven by sustainability and an ethical approach to manufacturing. This brand also has the coziest pair of Alpaca Slippers that we can't keep in stock during the holiday season.”
No. 6
CU-H-10 CUFF
8.6.4
“We’ve been working with 8.6.4 since our very first Shoppe show a few years ago. Their pieces blend organic shapes with Japanese-inspired design (and I love anything Japanese!). This cuff—like so many of their pieces—is perfect for stacking or wearing solo for a more minimalist look. This collection has become one of our top sellers for gifting.”