Women's dress shoes highlight tactile uppers, sharp silhouettes

             Makers are coming up with needle-tipped stilettos in touchable materials.

Textured uppers: Suppliers are adding surface interest to the latest designs. They continue to use neutral snakeskin-patterned PU leather or cowhide. Suede in vivid tones is also popular. In terms of fabrics, the options are velvet, tweed, flannel and lace.

Pointed toes & heels: Needle tips and high stilettos are returning to the fore despite the current prevalence of round vamps, and kitten and wedge heels. Because of their practicality for daily wear, businesses intend to continue offering styles with curved toe boxes and stable elevation.

Soft & cushioned interiors: Makers are improving comfort by using smooth lining and pigskin insoles. The latter is less abrasive to the skin than other types of genuine leather. Padded foot beds ease pressure on the metatarsal heads.

Price forecast: Suppliers intend to raise quotes by 5 to 10 percent in the next six months due to the increase in synthetic and animal hide rates, which represents one-half of production costs. The appreciation of the yuan is a factor as well.