Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn. Strategy session, anyone? Potent Pluto and mental Mercury share a signal this Wednesday, sharpening everyone's intellectual abilities. Take nothing at face value, though! Detective Pluto likes to plumb the depths and discover what's hidden in the shadows. Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it's Mercury's calling card. Asking strategic questions can also churn up clues. With these two planets in cahoots, conversations could get pretty suggestive. Pluto is the seducer of the skies, while Mercury is an unapologetic flirt. Circle Wednesday for making your most amorous moves!
On Saturday, the promise of world peace could become a glimmer on the horizon of hope again. Challenger Saturn snaps out of a five-month retrograde and powers forward through Sagittarius — the sign that governs global relations and higher truths. Since Saturn went to sleep on the 25th of March, we've seen police brutality hit the breaking point, disastrous Trumpnados, international violence, and critical levels of xenophobia. But here's hoping the sensible planet's U-turn restores some sanity to our world. On a personal level, forward-moving Saturn can help us put structure behind our dreams — particularly Sagittarius-related ones like applying to university programs, traveling cross-continentally, publishing, and starting entrepreneurial ventures. Multicultural relationships will benefit from the strengthening powers of Saturn. Simply put, #LoveWins.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Started from the bottom, now you're here ! This week, your tireless efforts could really start to pay off. Remain focused! With Wednesday's auspicious alignment between powerful Pluto and clever Mercury, you'll attract some heavy-hitters your way. But this is not a fake-it-'til-you-make-it moment, Leo. Be honest about your current capacities as well as your eagerness to grow and learn. If you're not ready to slay in the executive suites, settle for "office ingénue." Making coffee runs for the influencers also means getting your foot in the door with them. Everyone starts somewhere! But this week, it's all about who you know — and who you are near.
Your star will rise on Saturday — or, should we say, rise again. Heavy-hitting Saturn, which has been retrograde in your fifth house of fame and romance since March 25, makes a positive U-turn, and gets back in gear. No more flying under the radar, Leo. If you've been hustling and developing your talents this year, you can finally start to promote them again. Stalled romantic situations get some traction now. Stop pulling petals off that damn daisy! Saturn helps you clarify: Do you love them, or love them not? And moreover, are your affections being reciprocated? If so, talks could turn to "next steps." If not, gather up your pearls and stop laying them before swine.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Why settle for a few random likes when you could be a total Snapchat sensation? (Or, uh, something like that.) Early this week, messenger Mercury gets in the trenches with magnetic Pluto, helping you raise your visibility big-time! Find your "hook," Virgo: What unique traits can you play up that separate you from the pack? These should be authentically you; nothing forced or fake. There's a part of your personality that you reserve for your closest crew...and that's exactly what we're talking about here. Embrace your hidden weirdness and wear it on your sleeve (maybe as a sleeve tattoo, even). Turn it into art, music, poetry, or a choreographed dance piece. Your creativity will slay under these stars.
A Virgo cannot exist on leafy greens alone, and on Saturday you'll feel inspired to nourish yourself properly once again. Structured Saturn, which has been on hiatus in your domestic fourth house since March 25, snaps out of retrograde and awakens your inner mom vibes. Before you start taking care of your crew, how about handling stuff at your own home base? Hit the grocery store and pick up ingredients for these healthy summer meals . Once you're properly fed, you'll be ready to tackle a couple bigger missions like a massive bedroom reorg — or even moving to more suitable digs. Relationships with the important ladies in your life will get back into a healthy, grounded groove now. End-of-summer girls' trip, anyone? Yes, please.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Libra
September 23 to October 22
You're everyone's favorite shoulder to lean on this week, Libra — a role you should just embrace. Hey, you didn't secretly read all those inspirational and self-help books for nothin'! But while you're at it, peruse those sections of Amazon for a few new titles; download a meditation app. The wisdom you glean will quickly become part of your thinking, and you can pass on these golden lessons to your soul squad. A family member will be particularly grateful for your empowering words, so don't hold back when that advice starts brewing in your mind.
On Saturday, heavy-hitting Saturn wakes up from a five-month retrograde in your communication zone, slowly restoring your gift of gab. Since March 25, you may have found yourself embroiled in some messy exchanges. (Cue Libra Kim Kardashian West's husband-defending social media maelstrom.) The simplest statement may have been misinterpreted, or maybe you just struggled to put your feelings into words. As Saturn makes a positive U-turn this weekend, you'll find it easier to break things down again...and in ways that get your point across proactively. A promising partnership could emerge in the days ahead, too. Join forces on a work project or creative collaboration, and you'll both soar higher. If you've been struggling with a sibling or colleague, the tension will soon smooth out. Put on the big-girl pants and deal with it maturely!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
You're selective about who you let into your squad, Scorpio — and rightfully so. When you bond with people, you do so deeply, and you need to know that they're worth the effort. Early this week, your ruler omnipotent Pluto syncs up with social Mercury, putting a few new soul friends on your radar. Mingle mindfully! Hang out with the high-vibes crowd, because that's how you'll meet people who give, not just take. It's possible that you'll meet them through a class, lecture, or the introduction of mutual friends.
Happy news for your bank account comes on Saturday, when stable Saturn snaps out of retrograde and powers forward in your fiscally savvy second house. Since March 25, you may have had to tighten up the old belt a bit — and getting jazzed about work hasn't been easy. But with Saturn's positive pivot this weekend, you're back in "profit, produce, and progress" mode. Polish up your LinkedIn and avail yourself to the office influencers. Your dedication and diligence will score you loyalty points. And remember: Living lean doesn't mean starving yourself of all luxury. Focus on your income column, so you can get back to the Scorpionic art of treasure-hunting. Is there a gap in your skill set? Saturn rewards a steady effort, so sign up for that specialized training or evening classes and you'll quickly make your way to a higher pay grade.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
With your lust for life, money can seriously burn a hole in your pocket. But this week, take back a few b-words, like "budget" and "baller." With savvy Mercury and strategic Pluto pair-bonding in your financial zones, the fiscal floodgates could open. Socialize strategically: A casual conversation (with a curated crew) could quickly turn into shop talk. Investing in a promising startup or nailing a job interview could be as easy as turning on your winning smile and charming everyone in the room.
Celebrations are in order this weekend! On Saturday, taskmaster Saturn ends a crushing five-month retrograde that took place in your sign, no less. Since March 25, it's almost felt as if your lucky streak went AWOL. But Saturn is cruel to be kind. This phase forced you to fortify your foundation and build inner strength like never before. Here's hoping you rose to the challenge, Sagittarius! Because with Saturn back on track, elite opportunities will start flowing in as a result of your hard work. (Entrance to Berlin's Berghain , even?) And while your ascent may be slow and steady with Saturn here until December 2017, it's time to reset your sights on those lofty goals and start firing your arrows once again. Zing!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Where's the next stop on the Capricorn World Tour? Broader horizons beckon this week as curious Mercury in your travel zone gets a ping from potent Pluto. A spiritual pilgrimage could be in the stars, or a relaxing retreat that deepens your connection to yourself. Maybe you'll travel for business, pursuing one of your own independent ventures. If the purpose of your journey is yet to reveal itself, just start polling your friends about their favorite pin drops on Google's green Earth.
On Saturday your ruling planet, hardworking Saturn, snaps out of retrograde mode and back into action. Since March 25, the cosmic taskmaster has been on sabbatical in your 12th house of transitions and boundaries. As a result, you've had trouble moving on from things — even situations you know aren't in your best interest. As Saturn corrects course this weekend, you'll start regaining your ability to set healthy boundaries. Remember that "No." can be a complete sentence; no justifications are required when you know something won't work for you. Forward-flowing Saturn can now bring powerful mentors your way, and also help you create a structure for finishing up projects that have been stalled since spring. Work from a plan!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Are people's words matching their actions? Early this week, you'll need to read between the lines. Pay attention to body language. If someone's been "leaning in," it's a pretty clear clue that they are at least mildly attracted to you. But if they're nervously nodding with their arms crossed and a smile plastered on? Well, they might just be hiding something. Don the detective's cap and do some independent research. Don't invade anyone's privacy; just ask the right questions. If you're feeling the love, get some private, one-on-one time on the books. Set the stage for seduction, and you could finally get a romance underway. But if bae still doesn't take the bait, at least you'll know for sure that it's time to move on.
On Saturday, your social life stabilizes as challenging Saturn wakes up from a frustrating, five-month retrograde in your communal 11th house. Figuring out where you fit in hasn't been easy since spring. And even if you're solid with your squad, maybe you've dealt with weird divisions and in-fighting between friends. As of Saturday, you'll feel less concerned about what the so-called cool kids think and more interested in just banding together with high-vibes human beings again. Saturn's positive pivot might even inspire you to start a blog, podcast, or YouTube series. If you prefer to work your magic behind the scenes, learn a new geeky skill. This could soon spell money in the bank!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Common ground and great on-paper credentials aren't always enough to make a relationship sing, Pisces. This week, the true litmus test is even simpler than that: Do you have fun together? Social Mercury flirts with alchemical Pluto all week, amping up your charm. Witty banter could give way to after-hours fun — and with someone you meet through a dating app or mutual friends, at that. Follow the natural chemistry instead of being so strategic in your search process. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Already attached? This week's mantra: The couple that plays together, slays together. Organize entertainment for your shared friend group. Planning a party together is bonding gold.
On Saturday, there's only one thing to do: Lean in. Ambitious Saturn has been snoozing in retrograde mode in your career zone since March 25. But this weekend, the heavenly hustler makes a U-turn and powers forward once again. If it's been two steps forward, one step back since spring, we can't blame you for wanting to throw in the towel. But don't! Pieces will start falling back into place again now. (The stars were just testing your willpower.) If you need to polish up your professional game, work with coaches and consult mentors. Having people who have "been there, done that" in your corner is the fastest way to the top.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Aries
March 21 to April 19
Baby steps, Aries; baby steps. This week, you'll want to take your time and do everything by the books. One slip up could cost you, big time. But by the same token, your hawk-eyed attention to detail could bring pro-level credibility. As you cautiously climb — to the top, naturally — make sure you aren't complicating the whole procedure. The rule of K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Sweetheart) will help you crush it, even if that means breaking your master plan into smaller phases.
On Saturday, you can expand your search radius again as stable Saturn wakes up from retrograde mode. Since March 25, the conservative planet has been napping in your ninth house of travel, expansion and higher truths. As a result, you may have felt like you were stuck in neutral with no clear direction of where to go. As Saturn pivots back into its power position, greener pastures call. You could soon be taking a journey — internationally, even — that helps you develop as a person, inside and out. Studying or going back to school may also be in the cards. Enterprising Aries might finally get the green light to start your own business or get a profitable media project, like a webinar or app, into dev.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Authenticity is an aphrodisiac, Taurus — to thine own self be true! Early this week, expressive Mercury sidles up to seductive Pluto and gives you the courage to cut loose. Bring on the mic drops and naked vulnerability. You might only get that once chance to show people what you're made of. False advertising is utterly pointless. You'll only wind up in the wrong relationships if you start that way. And it's fine to be a bit more theatrical, especially near (or on) Wednesday. Just make sure you give other people a chance to shine too. The point of this exercise is to reveal your personality; not turn every occasion into The Taurus Show.
On Saturday, stoic Saturn snaps out of a five-month retrograde and starts pulsing forward through your erotic eighth house. Emergency lingerie drawer refresh, anyone? Saturn's backspin, which began on March 25, was like a cold shower on your libido at times. Maybe you got caught up in an obsessive crush or uncomfortably secretive situation. But as the heavy-hitting planet corrects course you're ready to love hard again — and with someone you feel proud to bring out in public. If you're already spoken fore, Saturn will now be a stabilizing force instead of a stultifying one. Take about "next steps" because your urge to merge could lead to a shared bank account, co-signed lease or other ways to unite and win.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Gemini
May 21 to June 20
The force is most definitely with you this week, Gemini. (Light saber: totes optional.) Mystic Pluto and messenger Mercury will be in cahoots, bringing divine downloads and knowing feelings by the second. Question nothing — but investigate everything. Following your hunches could lead you right down destiny's path. If a word pops into your head, Google it. If you get the sense that you should turn down a certain street or spark up conversation with a "stranger," do just that. Energy has a language all its own and these flashes can guide you directly to your desires.
On Saturday, heavy hitting Saturn snaps out of a stultifying, five month retrograde in Sagittarius and your seventh house of relationships. The tide is turning, Gemini and soon you can bring back those loving feelings again. Since March 25 your emotions may have run hot and cold; or circumstances may have kept you and bae from, as they say on The Bachelorette , "starting our journey together." But now, solid Saturn is handing you the final rose and helping you choose a wise contender as the recipient. In the days ahead you could attract a legit love interest. Already attached? Talk shared goals this weekend. Building the dream together is how Saturn can help seal your bond.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Cancer
June 21 to July 22
The feels are oh-so-real this week, Cancer — don't let anybody tell you that you're overreacting! With psychic Pluto and messenger Mercury sharing a signal on Wednesday your gut instincts will tell you everything. If you sense some tension brewing, cleverly step in to smooth things over. Relationships can deepen under this starry spell so don't be afraid to open up. With the right person, your vulnerable vibes will be a turn-on. But if you know someone is off limits, run in the opposite direction. All the chemistry in the world won't make this sketchy situation legit! If it's meant to be, you'll be able to pursue it once the coast is clear.
On Saturday, take one more sip of that bottomless margarita before swapping it out for a strawberry smoothie. Saturn, the wise teacher of the skies, wakes up from a five-month retrograde in your healthy living zone and prompts you to clean up your act. Let your inner wellness warrior take the wheel. Avoid fads and quick fixes though. Slow, steady progress is the name of Saturn's game. Learn how to prepare meals with whole ingredients (read: stuff that comes from the ground instead of a lab) and find an exercise modality that actually works with your busy life. Engage your squad in your living well mission too. There's strength in numbers for your family-oriented sign!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
A Mood Board For Your Sign, In Case You Don't Have One Already
The Year's Most Carefree Full Moon Is Coming This Friday
Mars Is About To Light Up Our Sex Lives — & Our Tempers