I dont model, but I have been very successful in converting shoes to dawn using the fitting room so that information may help.

when converting I fit the shoes to Dawn with IK off, default postion.  when everything right, I go to fitting room, and create a figure without using the fit option.  that will take care of donor  rig/grouping.

 

Here is an example using Tool Girl boots fitted to dawn.

 

Bill

People that know everything by definition can not learn anything