Or maybe the illusion thereof.

I brought these Soft Style microfiber-faux-suede shooties home to consider, but only if the cobbler can take down the heel. They fit quite close to the foot and could be a more refined, non-bootie option with black tights. Typically, they "looked" better in my usual half-size down, with no gapping at all, but squished my toes, which are much happier in the next half size up. That would also be an advantage if wearing fleece tights or adding inserts.

But, the heels are at least 1 " too high.

I'm not optimistic, or maybe more worried that he will take the job but it will not turn out right, because of the micofiber construction which would have to be preserved. Also sometimes there's a reinforcing rod in the heel which prevents or limits cutting down. So perhaps it's just a trip to the cobbler to see if they even do that kind of work at all, and the cost, in case I want to consider for even another pair of shoes.