The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

On the second floor of Heliopolis’ Sun City Mall, the familiar straight-edge signage and shiny-shoe window displays of Aldo beckoned us in. Their latest collections sat proudly in the window, boasting a selection of women’s shoes on one side and men’s on the other.

With beach weather fast approaching, the women’s display was entirely made up of summery footwear, namely flip flops (339LE-699LE) and strappy wedges (439LE-699LE). The styles ranged from simple leather and T-straps (339LE), to fussy masterpieces, complete with Aztec prints and studs (599LE). Simple sandals in orange, blue or metallic silver were priced at 699LE, whilst some leopard and zebra print ones were priced at 439LE.

On the inside, the wondrous women’s collection continued, presenting all sorts of shoes suitable for many different occasions; from understated pumps to outrageous party shoes. For everyday wear, a pair of simple black pumps with two small tassels on the front stood at 639LE whilst leopard print ones with gold chain detailing were priced at 699LE. Furthermore, comfy looking tan and dark brown moccasins were priced at 499LE. We spotted a pair of black and white patent pumps in the sale for 350LE.

Their collection of evening shoes is imaginative; along with simple black strappy platforms (699LE) and various neutral coloured heels, there was also a range of look-at-me shoes – a phrase we just invented. Gold and silver glittery heels cost 799LE whilst a multicoloured pair with a neon orange heel and toe was priced at 889LE. A snake skin pair was on display for 889LE with the matching bag conveniently placed beside them for 399LE. Aldo also had a range of ankle boots for those of us who can’t walk in heels without feeling like there’s some sort of ankle protection.  

On the opposite side of the shop the men’s section was a little thinner on their selection of sandals, although we did spot a pair of simple, leather flip flops (499LE) available in a range of colours. Along with these, this Aldo also stocks men’s shoes for all occasions – both smart and casual. Leather, lace-up boating shoes were priced at 899LE, dark coloured loafers presented in the window ranged from 699LE-739LE and suede or leather ankle boots cost 699LE-1469LE. Their accessory section was also vastly smaller than the women’s, although some jolly socks, straw hats (169LE) and G-Shock style watches (239LE) were available at the time of our visit.