If you’re still confused by the term brat summer, August is when you’ll have no choice but to get on board. We’re at a personal and cultural tipping point. In my years of doing astrological forecasts, I’ve never seen a month quite like August 2024—and yes, that includes March 2020. Thought things were already messy? Well, they’re about to get messier. But what if it was in a cool girl way?
The new moon in Leo on the 4th kicks things off like a hazy day at the pool. The tan lines are gone, the coconut mocktail is hitting the spot, and the bikini finally fits right, but this day is also bittersweet. This simple bliss won’t last forever, or will it?
Venus enters Virgo on the 4th to remind us that just because the party’s over that doesn’t mean we can’t put on a good playlist and have some fun cleaning up. Venus in Virgo shows love through acts of service, detailed care and making a plan. Though Venus isn’t in her natural home in Virgo, she works overtime to make things beautiful. Public figures with Venus in Virgo include Julia Roberts, Kim Kardashian, and the cool girl meme queen and now presumptive presidential nominee Kamala Harris.
The Venus in Virgo plan is absolutely necessary because on the 5th, Mercury stations retrograde in Virgo. With Mercury moving backwards until the 28th, get ready for a month of missing texts, delayed dates and revisiting past dynamics. If you’re hellbent on productivity, this is a frustrating moment. But if you’re willing to take the alternate route, you can revise and even rewrite the story. Mercury meets the sun on the 18th which brings an ever-so-brief “a-ha!” moment before confusion takes the wheel once again.
Venus’s entrance into Virgo also marks the beginning of August’s astrological storm system: Venus in Virgo faces off with Saturn in Pisces as both come into hard aspect with Mars and Jupiter in Gemini. The technical term for this configuration is a “t-square,” but you can just call it absolute chaos. All of the planets involved are in mutable signs, which are known for being as flexible as they are “of two minds.” We’re being pulled in so many directions at once in August, and the only way to get through it is to let go of outcomes and (as Tim Gunn would say) “make it work.” This energy peaks around the 19th, the day of the full moon in Aquarius. This full moon takes a tangled mess of information and cuts through the noise to create a solution that seems too simple to be real, but will be defining for both a personal and collective future.
Virgo season begins on the 22nd—here’s where we finally take off the chartreuse sequined dress and get settled into our cozy end of summer linens. Mercury retrograde ends on the 28th and the days that follow bring some necessary stillness. The month ends on a more “back to basics note” as Venus enters her home sign of Libra on the 29th where balance and taste rule everything. Also where justice is served.
(Horoscopes follow for each sign. If you know your rising sign, reading for that sign may provide further insight.)
The 3 Zodiac Signs That Are Stuck in the Past
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): A new hobby or crush is unlocked
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Redefining your work-pleasure balance
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): Definitive event for your industry or social circle
Leo season is always your most romantic time of year, but unfortunately, it’s impossible to spend this month wrapped up in the throes of a new crush or creative project. There’s too much other work to get done! Though you’re extremely busy, it’s important that instead of spending your free time going on random app dates or constant happy hour hangs, that you actually take some time for yourself to do nothing but rest. Forward motion isn’t what’s going to get you ahead this month: at work or in love. Lean into stillness and daydream about all the ways you want to expand your mind. And if your crush is still around after the chaos? Even better.
Love Horoscope: Your best laid plans for love and relationships may get derailed when Mercury goes retrograde from the 5th through the 28th. Schedules aren’t aligning and texts aren’t getting delivered. That being said, stay open to synchronicity because you might meet someone in your neighborhood around the 14th.
Money Horoscope: The full moon in Aquarius on the 19th may bring some unexpected news around your cash flow and even bring a surprise raise or bonus. Try not to feel guilty about getting promoted ahead of your work bestie. Let things unfold.
Aries Compatibility: The Best and Worst Zodiac Matches
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Last summer’s family drama finally put to rest
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Redecorating your bedroom (and having fun while doing it!)
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): Make or break moment for a big goal
Leo season is usually your homebody season, but this year, you’re feeling exposed and pulled in every direction. Whether it’s networking with your new grad school cohort, planning activities for your kids, or picking up extra gigs to pay off debt, you’re feeling full of opportunity and low on energy. It might sound obvious but the key to managing all of this is: delegation. Whether it’s inviting a bestie to keep you company at industry happy hours (and playing your professional wingman) or extending your nanny’s hours to keep the kids busy, what feels like a big ask now brings returns later.
Love Horoscope: Mercury retrograde from the 5th through the 28th may have you revisiting past flings or swiping past familiar faces on the apps. Remember: just because a former lover is popping into your mind, that’s not necessarily a sign that you need to get in touch. These winks from the universe are usually much more about us than they are about them.
Money Horoscope: “You have to spend money to make money,” is your mantra for the month. Since the spring, you’ve been focused on increasing resources and abundance but now is when it’s time to start making some long term investments. Before making a big purchase on the 14th, make sure you’re not acting out of impulse or exhaustion.
Taurus Compatibility: Your Best and Worst Zodiac Matches, Ranked
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Long-awaited local bar finally opens
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Reconnecting with old friends as classic neighborhood haunts
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): Plans for your next vacation are confirmed or denied
Sometimes what’s going on in the sky has more to do with our sister or lover or bestie than it does with us, but August’s transits are undeniably about you. You’re the main character, Gemini! Late summer is always a busy time for you, but this year your calendar is packed with more than just the usual Leo birthday parties. The one thing that might be missing from all this activity though is true one-on-one connection. Planning intimate hangs with your favorite people might seem like putting too much on your plate, but (especially from the 15th through 20th), you’re going to need that safe space.
Love Horoscope: If you’re single, someone who you’ve always thought of as “part of the group” could make a dramatic case for the two of you to spend more time alone around the 15th. If you’re partnered, most of your time together is going to be spent at social outings so make sure you plan a date to check in with just the two of you.
Money Horoscope: The full moon in Aquarius on the 19th brings you an out-of-the-blue gig opportunity, one that might take you out of town or out of your usual industry. Amidst the rest of this month’s chaos, it’s also becoming clear that to reach your financial goals, you have to consider both immediate and long term desires.
Gemini Compatibility: Your Best and Worst Zodiac Matches, Ranked
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): A friend finally pays back that $200 they owe you
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Revising your budget
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): A tough day where loss can’t be avoided as a part of life
It’s great to go into August with a goal in mind, but know that even your best-laid, most meticulously thought out plans are likely to get derailed. What you thought was vacation might end up an important business meeting. And what you thought was an important business meeting might end in a hangover. The best thing for you to do this keep your head down and focus on the things you can control—like exercise, eating healthy meals and going on your little errand run. Daily dog walks are where you find peace this month. Don’t take any tiny trip to the park for granted.
Love Horoscope: Life is pulling you in too many other directions this month to really focus on your romantic life. Any romance that happens needs to be very intentional so get those date nights on the calendar! If you’re single, you’re more likely to meet someone off the beaten path and outside of your usual routine.
Money Horoscope: Mercury’s retrograde from the 5th through the 28th is going to leave you with no choice than to sit down and take a good hard look at your budget. If you’re looking to pick up extra work, make sure your friends know. An opportunity to make some extra cash around the 18th sets you up with an unexpected ongoing and lucrative gig.
MOST SUITED ZODIAC SIGNS, RANKED FROM WORST TO BEST
Leo (July 23 – Aug 22)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): New moon, new you! (or, finally growing out last summer’s disastrous bangs)
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Revamping your personal style
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): A day to summon the courage to have “that” conversation
It’s your season, Leo! And though you have some great looks from Nuuly for every night out, it’s hard to tap into that birthday princess je ne sais quoi this year. You’re being pulled in way too many different directions both at work and in your personal life. Contract negotiations are taking forever. Hard relationship conversations are an albatross on otherwise fun nights out, and you can’t help but feel that your friends are too distracted for quality time. You can shake yourself out of these birthday blues by doing something purely for you. Something that would thrill your inner teen. Make a collage! Go to karaoke alone! You never know who you’ll meet when you’re living in the moment.
Love Horoscope: The full moon in Aquarius on the 19th is a culmination moment for one of your closest relationships. Whether it’s having a “talk” with that person you’ve been seeing for months, or confronting your best friend about a hurtful text, it’s a scary thing to initiate but you’ll get a lot of clarity once you begin.
Money Horoscope: Mercury stations retrograde in your money sector from the 5th through the 28th, and your personal goal during this time of review should be getting clear on what you really need. Do some Pinteresting around revamping your interiors and personal style, but wait until after the 28th to make any big purchases.
Leo Compatibility: Your Most Suited Zodiac Signs, Ranked Worst to Best
Virgo (August 23 – September 23)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): A magical day away from your phone and responsibilities
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Releasing limiting beliefs around self image
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): Stacked deadlines nearly break you, but you make it through
Oh Virgo, as a Starbucks barista once said to me when I was an anxious teen waiting at the counter for a soy chai,“What’s going on in your head? I can hear your wheels turning from all the way over here.” There’s a lot going on this month, especially at work and in your closest relationships. Though you’re reaping some benefits (sweet notes from a lover, kind words from your boss), you’re also feeling like it takes way too much work to get even a tiny bit of praise. Relief comes when you connect with nature and get back to your foundational needs. You may not think you have time to stop and smell the roses, but doing so should be your top priority.
Love Horoscope: The past year has brought big challenges in some relationships and divine clarity in others. This month, whether you’re single or partnered, make sure that you’re giving yourself as much love as you give everyone else.
Money Horoscope: The full moon in Aquarius on the 19th is a hectic one at work for you, but if you play it right, what happens now could lead to a considerable promotion or career pivot later. Keep your budget tight this month, but if you want to cheat a little: make sure you’re treating yourself.
Virgo Compatibility: Your Most Suited Zodiac Signs, Ranked
Libra (September 23 – October 21)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Last summer’s vision board finally becoming a reality
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Restructuring long term goals and releasing social ties that hold you back (for good this time)
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): A definitive date night
Finding a good balance between putting yourself out there and getting plenty of rest is going to be critical re: whether this month makes or breaks you. Life is moving fast, especially when it comes to work projects and travel opportunities. As much as you want to spend all your time future tripping or daydreaming about your next vacation, it’s important you also remain grounded in your local community. Make sure you’re taking time to get in a daily hot girl walk, check in with friends, and patronize local businesses. The key to your future is in how you’re spending your time now.
Love Horoscope: The full moon in Aquarius on the 19th brings a culmination to romantic seedlings that were planted back in February. Whether you’re seeing a casual connection blossom into a full-blown commitment, or simply: taking more risks and having great sex, fulfillment comes when you get out of your head and into your body.
Money Horoscope: Your finances have been constantly fluctuating this year, with lots of high highs and low lows. But in August, there’s a chance for you to earn more money through your skills and education. Opportunities for teaching or remote work that come up around the 14th are promising even if the deal isn’t signed right away.
Libra Compatibility: Your Most Suited Zodiac Signs, Ranked
Scorpio (October 22 – November 21)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Last summer’s career pivot finally starts paying off
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Reconnecting with those who want to support you and remembering how much value you truly have
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): An unexpectedly dramatic housewarming party
August is a breakthrough month for you, Scorpio. You’re continuing to define what romances and creative hobbies are worth pursuing while also making sure to get out and have fun with friends. At the same time, you’re also facing fears and finding the courage to break past limiting beliefs. There’s something you’ve left on the backburner for a long time not because you can’t do it, but because you’re afraid of what it might crack open. There’s no time like August to just begin. Facing this fear opens up a whole new world for you, one you won’t be able to believe you weren’t always living in.
Love Horoscope: July brought some major shakeups to your closest relationships and now you’re sitting in the messy aftermath and considering the best next steps. If you’re single, it’s possible to meet someone through friends, but make sure you’re on the same page about commitment. Flings can’t be a priority.
Money Horoscope: The new moon in Leo on the 4th is a very welcome fresh start for your career and public roles. Whether you’re starting a new position, considering an industry pivot or streamlining a project, now’s the time to reclaim your professional power and get a paycheck that matches.
5 Things to Know Before Dating a Scorpio
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Education or travel put on hold last summer takes flight
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Renegotiating a contract so you can work where and when you want
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): News from a close friend rocks your world
August is not an easy month for you, Sagittarius. 2024 has been a humbling year of addressing foundational needs rather than pushing ever forward to get ahead. You do get some VIP treatment and public recognition this month, but it feels too little too late. Especially because so much of your energy is being put into the delicate circus act of walking on eggshells around your temp job boss and stressed-out partner. Relief comes when you take time to focus on yourself. Get a haircut! Splurge on an expensive manicure! Take yourself out for an extra long lunch! What might seem like a silly indulgence is the key to your next major move.
Love Horoscope: Mercury goes retrograde in your public image sector from the 5th through the 28th. Though this transit is mostly about reworking your personal career goals, you may also find that one of your exes is suddenly getting a lot of public attention. Remember: the block button is your friend.
Money Horoscope: Letting go of one responsibility and taking on another has left you in financial flux this month. You’re not making as much as you do with your usual side gigs, but in a way, you’re enjoying the freedom of movement. Remember that time is also a resource.
Sagittarius Is the Single Most Optimistic Sign in the Zodiac—We Can All Learn from Them
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): Last summer’s fight brings this summer’s breakup (or reconciliation)
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Reconfiguring travel plans to help out a friend
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): A stressful day calls for a treat (just for you, not to share)
So far 2024 has been a year of getting serious about who and what you let into your immediate environment. You’ve made great efforts to streamline your schedule, upgrade your communications and weed out any toxic friends. It’s easy to feel like you’ve lost more than you’ve gained. But you don’t have much time for grief this month as you grind away at work and make moves to expand your mind. Committing to meditation and getting productively lost is the medicine for frustration and slog. Find ways to be still without being stuck.
Love Horoscope: Past relationship baggage that you thought was given away to Goodwill last summer returns with a vengeance at the new moon in Leo on the 4th. Whether you’re back in touch with a past lover, continuing a historic argument or reviewing the situation in couple’s therapy, this new moon calls for closure.
Money Horoscope: Mercury retrograde from the 5th through the 28th has you reviewing the terms and conditions on a loan or scholarship. Clarity comes on the 18th about whether this support is worth an ongoing obligation. Sometimes it’s better to take on more debt than feel totally stuck.
How Capricorn Are You Really (on a Scale from “Goat” to “Check Your Birth Certificate”)?
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): A very affirming first date
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Reviewing the terms and conditions in an important relationship
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): A good cry is necessary, whether or not you get what you want
2024 has been a year of getting real about your financial situation. This reality check hasn’t been easy to work through but what feels limiting now is planting seeds for future abundance. August brings opportunities to ask for support and apply for loans while also bringing many temptations to spend everything you’ve saved. Pleasure is important but not worth going bankrupt. When you’re having trouble prioritizing, relief comes in staying focused on your larger goals and the community you want to serve. What’s the point of gaining all this wealth if you don’t have anyone to share it with?
Love Horoscope: The new moon in Leo on the 4th brings a promising fresh start for your romantic life and partnerships. This isn’t just a fling. You’re ready to make a commitment. But that doesn’t mean you still can’t take things slow. Mercury retrograde from the 5th through the 28th requires your patience before moving forward.
Money Horoscope: Though most of this year has been about saving, this month gives you a unique opportunity to gain more financial support. Alternatively, if you’ve saved a lot, this might be the month when you find yourself acting as someone’s sugar daddy. Make sure you triple check the contract terms before committing to anything!
So This Is Why the Aquarius Personality Is So Rare
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
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New Moon in Leo (August 4): At long last, you’re getting a puppy!
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Mercury Retrograde in Virgo and Leo (August 5-28): Reconnecting with past lovers and reconsidering your needs
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Full Moon in Aquarius (August 19): If it’s all too much then it’s time to meditate
2024 has been a year of extremely personal challenges that have affected both your mind and body. You’ve been through intense fitness regimens, health struggles, and fashion frustrations. In August, the challenge is continuing to work through this while also literally or figuratively uprooting yourself. August’s chaotic energy which peaks around the 15th through 20th finds you moving across the country or doing shadow work to heal intergenerational trauma. The medicine through all of this is to make sure you aren’t keeping it to yourself. Share your journey. You might be surprised who resonates with it.
Love Horoscope: With all that’s going on this month, you don’t have much time for romance. That being said, the full moon in Aquarius on the 19th which falls in your unconscious sector brings some clarity around a relationship that’s been stressing you out for a long time. Whether you’re moving ahead or walking away, do so with a mind at peace.
Money Horoscope: All of your money this month is being put into your home, family or healing journey. Who knew couches were so expensive? Who knew it cost so much to move? Before spending more cash you don’t have on furnishing your new place, see what you can pick up second hand. You might get very lucky with a gift (or therapist recommendation) from a friend.
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