In this episode, I Want Her Shoes host Anna speaks with Asha Elias, who is author, columnist, mother, and self-described “reluctant socialite.”
The discussion centres on writing, motherhood, wellness, and life in Miami.
Asha’s Path to Writing
Asha grew up in Boca Raton and moved to Miami in 2001 to attend the University of Miami. The city’s diversity and “anything goes” energy encouraged her to pursue creative work. Years later, while serving as vice-president of fundraising for her child’s PTA, she began the draft that became Pink Glass Houses. Freelance columns for Cosmopolitan and the Miami New Times followed, giving her regular outlets for short-form commentary.
In Pink Glass Houses PTA fundraiser protagonist mirrors Asha’s own volunteer role. The book was thought as a broader portrait of Miami parent culture rather than a direct exposé.
The Namaste Club satirises the yoga and wellness scene while addressing mid-life sexuality, divorce, and micro-dosing, delivering a mixture of laughter and serious questions to think about. Written with fewer reservations than her debut; editors supported the explicit materia.
Motherhood and Motivation
Asha states that becoming a mother was the catalyst for pursuing fiction: “Writing was always my passion. But I don’t think I truly pursued it until I had someone that I wanted to be a good role model for” she said. Modelling commitment to personal goals became part of parenting.
Miami was also a great inspiration. The city appears in her work almost as a character. The city’s climate and cultural mix shape both story events and wardrobe choices. Asha notes that local parents may arrive at school events in crop-tops and boots because “It’s hot … and we want to look cute”. She sees confidence, rather than shock value, in these choices.
Style Conversation
Although she gravitates toward neutral patterns and materials, Asha keeps statement pieces for impact: a patterned open coat with shearling collar and metallic Gucci heels purchased ten years ago. Shoes, she says, allow playful colour without changing an outfit’s overall tone.
