Best Inexpensive Shoe Store

We know it's a trying time. You pay $1,800 a month for your studio apartment, your PG&E bill -- lord! -- rests unpaid atop a stack of credit card statements, and your severance is, well, dwindling. Sure, shoes are a luxury item, but if you're a shoe person -- and there are many of you out there -- you know how important they are in making a good outfit great (say, for a job interview) or, at the very least, a favorable impression (say, for networking). We rationalize. No matter, savvy shoppers are wise to check out Aldo, where stylish shoes are offered at affordable prices. Here, you won't find designer names, but you'll fall in love with amazing knockoffs. Whether your passion is for cork-heeled platforms, flower-adorned flip-flops, square- or pointy-toed boots, wedgies, loafers, or stilettos, you'll find them here. Aldo only stocks its own house label, which probably has something to do with the fair prices (we couldn't find a shoe over $150, with most ranging from $40 to $70). A special bonus: Unlike the trendy shoe stores in the Haight, the youthful staff here are warm and attentive.