About Town: Chris Bronstein and Melanie Ralston
Chris Bronstein and Melanie Ralston, the brains behind the fashion blog 39nineteen, live in the heart of San Francisco and write about clothes and accessories they’ve shared since Ralston was about 12 years old. The concept for the site was sparked last year when Ralston moved in with Bronstein (who is married to journalist Phil Bronstein) and the paired couldn’t help but notice how eerily similar their daily looks had become. Instantly, 39nineteen was born. The women realized that certain pieces can be worn by multiple generations in different ways. This inspired the friends to create a site chronicling the dual trends. Here, the two women divulge their favorite Bay Area spots, many of which they both frequent.
By Madison Dahlke
HELPER’S HOUSE OF COUTURE We both think that Joy Venturini Bianchi’s Helper’s House of Couture is the most unique place to shop in San Francisco. This by-appointment vintage shop has everything from a Jennifer Lopez red carpet dress to Ann Getty’s jewelry, and all the proceeds go to help the disabled.
THE BEST LIL’ PORKHOUSE This restaurant in San Rafael is perfect for a quick bite to eat. The ribs are delicious.
EL PASEO Just over the Golden Gate Bridge in the quaint town of Mill Valley is where you can find amazing steaks. El Paseo is perfect for date night.
BELLA NAILS We both like to meet up with friends and family at this nail salon in San Francisco. Even the boys in our family like to come along for foot rubs. We’re both multi-taskers, so meeting with friends over a mani-pedi is perfect.
ORACLE ARENA Ralston: The Oracle Arena in Oakland is my go-to place for concerts. I’m obsessed with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, to put it mildly, and I saw them live for the first time there.
THE ALEMEDA FLEA MARKET This is our go-to farmer’s market. But it gets crowded, you have to get there early!
GOOD EARTH Bronstein: I rely on the Alkalize juice from Good Earth in Fairfax.
PEET’S COFFEE & TEA Bronstein: We’re both addicted. I get a black coffee, and Melanie gets a Light Café Freido.
SKY FROG STUDIOS Ralston: I go to Sky Frog for pilates in Corte Madera. The owner/instructor Sara is a goddess! She whips asses into shape!
DEVILS TEETH BAKING COMPANY We both love this spot in the Sunset. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried the donut muffin.
PINON FLORIST Bronstein: Jun Pinon, in the Mission, makes the most beautiful designs. For my birthday one year, Phil got 100 roses from Pinon—it was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.
Pictured: Melanie Ralston & Chris Bronstein
Photo by Cavan Clark
