Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty, there’s a new YA film coming your way. The Devil’s Mouth follows a group of college friends who find themselves trapped with a bull shark in an underwater cave. Sharks, Gavin Casalegno, Lana Condor and Kathryn Newton? We’re sold. The survival horror film is directed by Jeff Wadlow, who was behind Truth or Dare, Fantasy Island and Imaginary. If you’re a horror fan, this will be right up your alley. Of course, a college trip wouldn’t be complete without some messy romance plot lines, so it will be interesting to see how that unfolds.

Below, find everything you need to know about The Devil’s Mouth, including the Australian release date, cast, plot and trailer.

When will The Devil’s Mouth be released?

The Devil’s Mouth will be released on July 29, 2026.

What is the plot of The Devil’s Mouth?

The Devil’s Mouth follows a group of college students on a trip in Thailand. While exploring some underwater caves, they get trapped inside a cave system with a bull shark. The only way to get out safely is to put aside their differences and work together. But even then, will they all make it out alive?

Who is in the cast of The Devil’s Mouth?

The cast of The Devil’s Mouth is fantastic. Kathryn Newton stars as Charlie, Lana Condor as Kate, Gavin Casalegno as Greg, Nico Hiraga as James and Tommi Rose as Adrienne.

Is there a trailer for The Devil’s Mouth?

The trailer for The Devil’s Mouth has dropped, and it’s exactly what we want from a shark movie. You can watch it below.

We will update this as more information is released.

The Devil’s Mouth will hit Prime Video on July 29, 2026.

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Welcome to Money Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.

This week: A stay-at-home parent who makes $0 per year and spends it on some Kala Namak (black salt).

If you’d like to submit your own Money Diary, you can do so via our online form. We pay $150 for each published diary. Apologies but we’re not able to reply to every email. We are legally unable to publish any diaries that have been written with the use of AI.

This diary was written in 2026.

Interested in taking our latest Money Diaries survey? We’d love to hear your thoughts here.

Occupation: Stay-at-home parent
Age: 38
Location: Long Island, NY
Salary: $0
Joint Income/Financial Setup: My husband E.’s salary is $210,000 plus a bonus target of $40,000. We share our finances in a joint bank and credit accounts. Additionally, we’ll make $30K this year from a trust in E.’s name (amount varies year to year).
Assets:
Investment accounts: $894K plus $65K earmarked for our children.
Debt: $795,000 (house); $381,550 (condo)
Paycheck Amount (bi-weekly): $5,000
Pronouns: She/her

Monthly Expenses

Housing Costs: $7,530.38
Loan Payments:
Car lease: $650
401k: $1,800
Utilities: ~$200
Phone plan: $25 (one of us is gifted a family plan)
Internet: $79.99
YouTube Premium: $23
Disney+: $4.99
Sirius Satellite Radio: $7.27
Apple Music: $10.99
IVF embryo storage: $115

Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it?
No. I was in foster care, so all my caretaker cared about was getting the monthly check that came in for housing me. I participated in college because all my peers were going, and it seemed like a logical next step since I knew I could get a lot of financial aid and I’d have a place to live. I ended up getting a mix of needs-based and merit-based aid, so I didn’t have any loans (I was extremely lucky) for undergrad. I went to graduate school and didn’t get any aid. I took out modest loans at okay interest rates and paid them off aggressively over a few years.

Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s) educate you about finances?
I was raised by a single mom (before my siblings and I were placed in foster care as teenagers). She talked to my siblings and me like we were adults. She stressed about money all the time. Our vacations were infrequent and done on the cheap. We camped in tents at a campsite and cooked all our own food. I once saw a paper she’d been writing on; it was a ledger for a vacation we were taking from New York to New Jersey. She’d written down every planned expense before the trip, including car mileage and gas cost to the gallon. My mom didn’t educate us about finances because she wasn’t good at it. I speculate, or maybe she was waiting until we got older, but then we were taken away from her. She lived (and still does live) paycheck to paycheck. Though she no longer takes care of dependents and now earns a comfortable, liveable wage, she is still unable to budget well or plan ahead.

What was your first job and why did you get it?
My mom was a waitress and would bring me to work with her (I was elementary school age). It was my first unpaid job, but a job I took seriously as it was my first ever! I was given the task of filling the dishwasher with soap and running it. There were two bottles of soap next to each other and I was to ask the guy towering above next to me if I couldn’t remember which to use. Eventually I got embarrassed of not being able to remember which it was, so I guessed. I guessed wrong and after a minute, the floor filled with soap suds. The guy yelled a lot and kicked me out of the kitchen, never to return again. After that, I sat in one of the booths and played with my paper dolls. If I was lucky, my mom would give me some money to get a new paper doll book, and I would run to the Barnes & Noble (or was it Borders Books?) and get a new one or sit in the aisles and play with stuff.

For my first paid job, I was a paper girl for a newspaper in middle school (so around 12 to 14 years old). I had a scooter, which I balanced the papers on either side of the handles, so I used that to throw the papers to the neighbours and then race home to get my stuff to go to school. Before going out, we had to either package them with rubber bands or plastic sleeves in the event of rain or snow. I can’t remember if both of my sisters did the job too or only one of them. Weekly, I’d go after school to collect payment for the subscriptions and my take-home pay was any tips I received. I got the job for spending money. I used it to buy candy, toys, and clothing that wasn’t hand–me–downs. And I bought my first cell phone, which was a flip phone that I loaded a few dollars on a phone card. The only game I remember playing on the thing was Snake.

Did you worry about money growing up?
I worried about money growing up because of the things our biological mom shared with us before we were taken away from her. Stressing about making payments, utility shut-off, and moving happened a lot. Taking a cold shower in a cold house was not fun.

Do you worry about money now?
I still worry about money now despite a decent nest egg and marketable skills, so I don’t think it will ever go away. It’s not something I have been able to logic myself out of, unfortunately.

At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?
I became financially responsible for myself when I aged out of foster care. I had extended care (since I was in college) and finished college at age 21, so the agency, at the time, gave me a small amount of cash (I think $600?), furniture you could pick from a catalog (I got a futon, a coffee table, and a TV stand), and helps you to secure housing. I was lucky enough to have the Section 8 program when I aged out and eventually earned too much money to warrant support. That benefit was a lifesaver. I would have been homeless when I left college had the housing transition program not been in place. I have been a long-time Money Diary reader, and have always been fascinated by people’s financial safety net responses. I would say that I never had a person I could financially rely upon before marriage. My safety net was my credit cards. I did use them and get into debt when I had to, and luckily have not had to go into severe credit card debt more than once. Now that I’m married, if we ever needed it, E.’s parents would be a financial safety net. However, like many loans received from family and friends, it would come with strings attached, so we wouldn’t consider it an option unless something dire happened.

Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain.
No.

Day One: Tuesday

7 a.m. — My husband, E., heads to a spin class. I keep shoving a pacifier and formula bottle in our baby T.’s mouth (E. always moves him into bed with me in the morning, so I can sleep a bit more). I give up on sleep and go to brush my teeth. I then wash my face using Cetaphil, followed by The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer and some Kiehl’s eye cream. I keep it simple per my dermatologist.

8:30 a.m. — I feed our cat. E. already fed our dog. I go downstairs to make breakfast. I ask Siri to play “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson. It makes for a nice, easy morning playlist. I sauté spinach and sliced white mushrooms with oil, garlic, and salt. I make a tofu scramble from a random recipe online. E. rates it 4 out of 5. The spinach is so yummy! T. starts crying, so E. takes him to go change his diaper.

9:30 a.m. — I cuddle with T. in bed. He passes out quickly but I can’t so I read an article in The Atlantic. I grab a lemon meringue Coconut Cult and do a crossword puzzle. I’m still hungry so I grab a handful of peanut butter pretzels and a can of club soda, and settle in to work on a book I’ve been writing. Researching, learning new things, outlining my words and illustrations — this has been making me happy with this little project of mine.

12:15 p.m. — I take a break from writing to have lunch. I have a bowl of It-Just-Keeps-Getting-Better Lentil Salad from Bon Appetit that I prepped a few days ago. The Little Man (who was at his grandparents’ place) was dropped off by grandpa earlier and just woke up from his morning nap. I give him a peanut butter and jelly Uncrustable, which he demolishes, and some milk. He crawls into his stroller so I guess he wants a walk. E. gets the baby prepped and I get our Little Man ready for a walk out in the snow. After our walk I put on Bluey for the Little Man and work on my book some more.

5 p.m. — E. feeds the Little Man mush overnight oats for dinner. E. makes us ravioli with a butternut squash sauce and a side of sautéed kale for dinner. I put on Wayne’s World because I’ve been wanting to rewatch it and I like the soundtrack. We haven’t watched much TV lately as a couple because there hasn’t been anything we’ve both wanted to watch. T. is sleeping on top of me so I can’t move anyway. I feed T. a bottle when he wakes. We have dinner; I have a glass of red wine with it.

7:00 p.m. — E. takes the Little Man up for bath time and bed. I feed T. a bottle while finishing the movie. I journal a few sentences. Feed cat.

9:00 p.m. — Bedtime.

Daily Total: $0

Day Two: Wednesday

7 a.m. — T. wakes me. I stick a bottle in his mouth, he downs it and falls back asleep. I try to fall back asleep, too. T. starts to stretch and kick a lot so I pull out his piano kick gym. It’s the only interactive toy he can play with at his age. He starts kicking the piano and smiling.

7:30 a.m. — I put together a bowl of corn pop cereal and ask E. to make me a coffee because I think it always tastes better when someone else makes it. It’s a cup of hot Folgers with cold foam (maple flavored) from Trader Joe’s on top. I eat cereal in bed and watch T. play with his toy. He is adorable. E. goes to get our nanny in our car from the train station! She’s with us three days a week for 10 hours a day, generally.

8 a.m. — I put Bluey on projected to the bedroom wall for the Little Man to watch. I hand off T. to the nanny and the Little Man and I go to his room and take a glorious nap together.

12 p.m. — The Little Man wakes. I feed him a mush overnight oat and heat up leftover potatoes and tofu scramble for myself. E. helps himself to lentil salad from the fridge and goes back to his office area for some meetings. I didn’t have Indian black salt, as per the recipe, for the tofu scramble and hadn’t heard of it before. The scramble came out fine without it but the reviews on Amazon rave about its umami flavor. I’m influenced. $6.99

5 p.m. — E. goes to the grocery store to grab a few things for dinner: Cucumber, cherry tomato, olives, onion, and bananas. He also picks up a few things from the pharmacy (I think that one is personal haha). $23.50

6 p.m. — I prep dinner for everyone: A pita bread open-face sandwich with hummus, cucumber, tomato, feta, dill, olives, and lemon juice. As I’m eating it, I remember I planned on putting sumac on it. Oh well. I relieve our nanny so she can eat before she needs to leave.

7 p.m. — I put Little Man to bed. He decides to play on the floor and falls asleep with his stuffed dog as his pillow on the floor surrounded by his toys. This kid can fall asleep anywhere and I’m jealous.

9 p.m. — I feed the cat and wash my face and brush my teeth. I get in bed and scroll Reddit before lights out.

Daily Total: $30.39

Day Three: Thursday

4:30 a.m. — The Little Man is up and won’t go back to sleep. I join him in his room while he goes between playing, babbling, and crying. E. stays with T. in our room, who is up periodically for feedings. I eventually go downstairs and make a bowl of Corn Pops and share them with the Little Man.

9 a.m. — E. picks up our nanny. The Little Man is napping and E. and I leave to take T. to a doctor’s appointment. I prep a thermos of coffee to take with me. T. was transverse [the baby is lying horizontally] when I was pregnant with him, so they want to look at his hips and make sure everything is okay.

11 a.m. — E. and I are both so hungry so we stop off for some food near the doctor’s. We’ve been to this sandwich place before and it’s so yummy. I get a tuna melt, E. gets a chicken panini and a Diet Coke, and then we get a homemade chocolate chip cookie to share. The cookie is stuffed with a rainbow cookie inside. It’s so extra and yum. I make note of the brand and its website because I think it would make a good gift for friends and neighbors ($36.27). We stop at Whole Foods and Saks off Fifth. I saw online that they were going out of business but there aren’t any sales and there’s a ton of inventory. We get lime, tuna steaks, pasta, pasta sauce, some Rao’s prepared soups, and dark chocolate peppermint cremes ($70.87). $107.14

2 p.m. — I interview for a new job. It goes okay.

3 p.m — I do a Caroline Girvan workout on YouTube from her Iron Series. I learned about her from a fellow Money Diary writer and I like her workouts even more than all the ones on Beach Body. I find hers to be tough but I can still get through them.

3:30 p.m. — I realize we are out of Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning, which I need to make dinner, so I drive to Trader Joe’s. I get some chicken, bean rice and cheese burritos, the lemon arugula lazy salad I love so much, pumpkin seeds, truffle marcona almonds, delice cheese to go with the almonds, Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning, snack bites, and a fruit strip. E. feeds Little Man dinner while I’m gone. Overnight oats, tofu eggs, and sugar snap peas. At this age, he’s eating everything — even weird combos like this. We are lucky. $56.87

5 p.m. — I make everything crusted tuna steaks and a side of snap peas. I follow the recipe from What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking by Caroline Chambers, which I borrowed from the library’s Libby app. I rate my execution 4 out of 5. The snap peas are so yummy coated in sesame oil and leftover seasoning from the tuna in the pan. I house a few Reese’s Oreos for dessert.

7 p.m. — I put the Little Man down for bed with a bottle of milk. E. takes our nanny to the train station and goes to a spin class. I pick up the book I Regret Almost Everything by Keith McNally to read. I got it as a birthday gift and have been itching to read it. I love reading food books and memoirs. So far, this one is more of the latter.

8 p.m. — I take a break to go on the Trader Joe’s website and submit a form about a discontinued product. I haven’t seen the Meatless Meatballs lately and I miss them so. I like theirs better than the competitor brands. The form I fill out probably won’t have any impact but one can dream.

Daily Total: $164.01

Day Four: Friday

6:30 a.m. — The Little Man wakes. (At some point during the night, I went to sleep in his room because he was crying).

7 a.m — We go downstairs for breakfast. I have a lemon meringue Coconut Cult and sprinkle in mini chocolate chips. The Little Man doesn’t like it so I sprinkle Cheerios and banana pieces on the highchair. I’m going to the city today to meet my sister at her college dorm and celebrate her birthday. We are going to QCNY spa. They have a birthday promotion where the birthday person gets free entry in the month of their birth with a paying customer, but I waited to get a ticket too long and the birthday promo tickets were all claimed for the times we were able to go, so I bought both tickets at full price.

7:30 a.m. — I make some coffee and bring it to E. in bed as a little treat. E. and T. are just hanging out in bed, scrolling the internet.

9:30 a.m. — I grab a Nature Valley Peanut Butter granola bar and we take the Little Man to the library for baby sign language, but he’s not having it today. He’s rubbing his eyes and whining so we leave early and E. takes him home for nap time. I walk to the train station, which is near the library, and catch the train to the city. I read my book on the commute. $11.25

11 a.m. — I stop in at Milk Bar to get my sister some red velvet cake truffles to toss in her birthday gift bag because she’s been into red velvet lately. I get an iced cereal milk latte (it’s so yum) and a triple peanut butter cookie. The cookie is just okay. I put half away for later because I want to eat something more substantial ($18.61). I stop at Black Seed Bagels since I pass by it and get bagels and orange juice for me and my sister ($19.11). I stop at Eataly to get a Marvis toothpaste to add to her gift bag, too. She always sneaks into my bathroom when she comes to our home to use my toothpaste because she loves it. I get one for myself too since I’m running low ($22.86). Before this week, I purchased some other things that are in her gift bag (a Dutch oven and flaky sea salt because she’s recently gotten into cooking, a dry brush and reusable cotton rounds for makeup and nail polish removal). $60.58

1 p.m. — We get to the spa and have fun in the saunas and pools. Staff give us various complimentary treats such as cookies and face masks. We use a bunch of lotions and scrubs in different rooms. Our skin looks so good when we happen to see a mirror to glance in! We take a break to have a snack and drinks at the cafe. We each get a margarita, a snack plate to share with cheese, crackers and vegetables, and a prosecco strawberry sorbet. We stay in the outdoor infinity pool that overlooks lower Manhattan to watch the sunset. $401.62

7 p.m. — E. is early into the city, so he grabs a drink before dinner at a dive bar ($9). $9

8 p.m. — We meet E. for dinner. The table isn’t ready, so they comp us drinks at the bar and then a bunch of appetizers when we finally sit down. They apologize too many times for the table being ready so late. We eat and decline dessert. They bring us a complimentary dessert anyway for my sister’s birthday with a candle and she’s so smiley. It comes to $259.00 but I get a $50 American Express Gold Card benefit, so $209.00 it is! $209.00

10 p.m. — We decide to go to a cocktail bar. E. and my sister do several rounds of lemon drop shots. I sip two cocktails slowly… my stomach hurts and I know if I get drunk I’m going to throw up, and I already somehow feel like crap, so I don’t drink much. My sister keeps trying to pay for a round but E. keeps paying. Finally, my sister gets the bill first at the last round and has flirty banter with the waiter. I don’t know if she actually wanted to pay the whole time or get this guy’s attention. She excitedly tells me he flirted back. I tell her they always flirt back with her, and she graciously says “no, not always.” $154.32

12 a.m. — We walk my sister back to her dorm. Her life plan is to go to her old job where she was a dancer and reconnect with a bartender who was in love with her. I tell her not to break his heart this time and to be safe. E. and I get on the train to go home. For fun, we look up a cab, and it’s $175. A hotel in Manhattan for the night, comparatively, is $95. Either way, we get on the train like reasonable people who spent a ton on food and drinks tonight and go home. E. falls asleep on the train and I’m engrossed in my book. E. tries to initiate sex at home and we have a talk. I have no sex drive after giving birth for the second time. I’m worried it won’t return ever and he will give up and divorce me eventually. He says that won’t happen. Do they have Viagra for women??? $22.50

Daily Total: $868.27

Day Five: Saturday

11 a.m. — I lay in bed until 11. It’s pretty glorious. I keep waking and then putting myself back to sleep. I hear T. cry periodically. The nanny slept over so we could have the night out last night, and she’s still taking care of the baby. I go downstairs and make a bowl of Corn Pops.

12 p.m. — E. takes our nanny to the train station ($900 plus dinner for date night ($39.35)). $939.35

12 p.m. — The weather is so nice out, sunny and in the 50s, so E. wants to walk to a local restaurant with T. in the stroller before the grandparents bring the Little Man home from his sleepover. We get loaded nachos, club soda and iced coffee and feed T. a bottle while we eat. We walk the long way home because it’s so nice out. T. falls asleep on top of me while I read my book. I fall asleep, too. $32.13

6 p.m. — I make lentil burgers from a Bon Appétit recipe. I add egg as a binder, as I don’t know how this recipe works without it. E. feeds the Little Man some mac and cheese, and T. gets a bottle.

7 p.m. — After we eat, I bathe the Little Man and put him to bed. I read my book and have some dark chocolate peppermint creams.

10 p.m. — I have a banana and a Babybel snack. Brush teeth, floss, wash face. Give the pillow some head.

Daily Total: $971.48

Day Six: Sunday

8:30 a.m. — I lay in bed with T. 8:30. I kept him asleep with bottles and pacifiers. I make tofu scramble again because this time I can try it with the black salt that came in the mail. It’s crazy how eggy it smells. E. added cold cheese on top last time, so I fold in some shredded mozzarella. I would prefer cheddar but the mozzarella is already pre-shredded. The flavor isn’t that much different with black salt. The Little Man goes down for his morning nap.

10:30 a.m. — E. goes to spin and I feed T. a bottle and read my book. He falls asleep on me but not for long. I try to hold in a cough and can’t, which wakes him.

1:00 p.m. — I feed the Little Man an Uncrustable for lunch and pack everyone up to go to E.’s godparent’s house for bagels and a hike. We forgot to take the harness for T., so I take a nap on the couch. E.’s godmother takes T., and E. goes for a hike with the Little Man and his godfather.

5 p.m. — We go to E.’s parents’ house for dinner. We order Greek food for pickup. E.’s parents pay.

8 p.m. — We arrive home and our Target grocery delivery arrived on our doorstep. We ordered a bunch of produce, some snacks, Aquaphor, and baby socks. We put the food away and the kids to bed. I put the dishes away and load the dishwasher because we need bottles for the night. I do a crossword and pass out. $102.80

Daily Total: $102.80

Day Seven: Monday

6 a.m. — The kids wake us up. E. takes the Little Man with him to the car shop to trade in our car for a loaner while ours gets repaired. I’m texting my father-in-law about politics and he isn’t answering me. It’s kinda early in the morning but you know how people get about politics??? Lol. I can’t stand the silence anymore so I call my father-in-law’s best friend. I know he screens his calls so he won’t answer but he will call me back at ungodly times of day, so I wait. I also pepper my sister with memes.

8 a.m. — Why isn’t anyone answering me? It’s like 8 a.m. now, which seems like an acceptable time for communication, and my brother-in-law isn’t answering me either. Where is everyone? Did the apocalypse finally happen? Oh wait, I look at my chat — jeez, I messaged a lot of people this morning. One person did respond to a birthday message I sent.

8:30 a.m. — I tidy up the house and E. comes home for the car repair shop with a frappe from Brew Crew for me — sweet! I read a bit while taking care of T., and grandpa comes over to relieve me and spend time with T. I chat on the phone for a while with an old neighbor who is a mom now as well, so we chat about kids, family, and career struggles as moms. I spend some time applying for jobs. $7.44

2 p.m. — I take the Little Man to a dance class at the library ($5), and E. and T. go to trade the loaner car back for our car. $5

2:30 p.m. — We’re told the total damage for a broken sensor issue we’ve been itching to fix: $634.38.

3 p.m. — E. goes to spin class and picks up some odds and ends for meals coming up (lime, lemon, etc). I prep a salad lunch for the next few days and make a shwarma spice mix to have on hand for potatoes (inspired by our dinner out the other night) and watch T. The Little Man took a nap right after his class; he doesn’t often do an afternoon nap. $3

5:30 p.m. — I whip together Crispy Miso Lime Tofu from the cookbook I took out from the library. It comes together in like 15 minutes and then I make a side of quick cooking garlic and herb rice. I rate the recipe 5/5. The Little Man won’t eat anything, so we don’t force it and let him have milk. I clean up and make a dessert from the same cookbook; it’s a chocolate peanut butter cup pudding type thing. It’s another quick recipe to make but has to chill in the fridge for hours to set. E. goes upstairs to put T. to bed and I tidy while the Little Man stays up late because of his nap schedule, watching Bluey.

7:00 p.m. — I take a bath with the Little Man and then put him to bed. He wakes, and E. goes to lie with him. I tidy up the downstairs and settle in with a book for the night.

Daily Total: $649.82

The Breakdown

Conclusion:
I beat myself up in my head for not working out enough times this week. The experience of recording my spend was… fine? I do this mentally with expenses anyway, so it wasn’t eye-opening or anything. I can’t see myself changing anything with regards to spend in the near future.

Money Diaries are meant to reflect an individual’s experience and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29’s point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.

The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day. For more Money Diaries, click here.

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In an ideal world, I’d never wear a strapless bra again. No hate to them, but with summer finally here, I can’t think of a more unappealing undergarment when it comes to tiny-tank-top-and-strappy sundress season — the marks that it leaves on the hot skin, the constricting material, the underboob sweat marks, the constant slipping… As if my phone was listening to my innermost thoughts (I’m not convinced that it isn’t, for the record), my social feeds started to get flooded with ads for Cakes, a brand of nipple covers that has intrigued me since first making rounds on TikTok over a year ago.

After first becoming popular for its Grippy Cakes, adhesive-free nipple covers, the brand has more recently unveiled the heat wave-friendly Sticky Cakes, which have a tacky adhesive layer to offer more support (and peace of mind). Cakes’ nipple covers come in a few different sizes (“itty bitty” for AAA-A cups, “OG” for B-DD cups, and “+” for DDD cups and up), skin tones (Honey, Caramel, and Cocoa), and shapes (circles and triangles).

I’ve had mixed success with nipple covers in the past. While the objective is to create a smooth surface underneath tight and/or sheer clothing, some of them made my breast outline even more pronounced as a result of thicker material or uneven edges, defeating the point entirely. Others made an early exit (this happened during my wedding reception, and I didn’t realize until the after-party — oops!) and fell off.

So, I set out to find out if Cakes, with their $33 price point — which hovers just above many of its competitors — were the real deal. (Although they are 30% off right now, BTW.) From white tees to bikini tops (yes, bikini tops!) to backless dresses, I put Cakes Grippy Circles, Grippy Triangles, Sticky Circles, and Sticky Triangles, all in the “OG” size and Honey colorway, to the test. Ahead, my thoughts.

Grippy Cakes Circles, $33 $23.10

First up, I tried the Grippy Cakes Circles. The silicone was smooth and soft, with a contoured shape that was thickest in the center and gradually thinned out towards the edges. As with any nipple covers, I applied them to clean, dry skin. I probably could’ve sized down in the circles because they nearly covered my entire breast. This is not necessarily a good or bad thing, especially considering that nipples and breasts vary in size and shape, but something to be aware of if your breasts are on the smaller side of the brand’s range.

The brand recommends wearing this style under tight clothing to help the Cakes stay in place, but I wore mine under a loosely fitting white T-shirt, and they were not only undetectable as advertised but felt secure all day, even in summer heat. After wearing them for a full day, I gently removed them, rinsed them with warm water, and patted them dry. According to the brand, if you follow these instructions, Grippy Cakes are reusable since they use your body’s heat, not adhesive, to naturally cling onto the skin. (Buying fewer, better things? Here for it.)

The circle-shaped “style” was most similar to other nipple covers I’ve tried in the past, but I found that these held up better with sweat and seamlessly blended with my skin (none of those uneven-edge issues I’ve experienced in the past). I would definitely wear these again under a sheer blouse or a plain white tee. 

Grippy Cakes Triangles, $33 $23.10

Later that week, I gave the Grippy Triangles, which have an elongated, pointed shape that offers coverage for trickier styles, a try; since they have a sleeker profile, they work for low-cut or V-neck styles that the Circles may have peeked out from. What’s more, Cakes says you can wear these with swimwear (and for working out, but I tend to need more significant support if I’m doing anything more intense than walking). To test this theory, I threw on a triangle bikini and hopped in the pool. I was honestly impressed that the covers stayed in place through swimming and then laying out in the sun; water and sweat didn’t affect the grippiness of the silicone whatsoever. 

Would these make it through surfing in Montauk? Probably not. But a little dip and/or playing mermaids is more than fine for these. I probably wouldn’t wear them again under swimwear because I look for styles that already have light padding in them. However, I appreciate having the option for sweat-filled days, and would recommend these for brides who want to dance the night away without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction like mine or, worse, a nip slip.

Sticky Cakes Circles & Triangles, $33 $23.10

Lastly, I tried the new Sticky Cakes, which are nearly identical to their grippy counterparts in look and feel (they come in the same silicone material) but are coated in a thin layer of medical-grade adhesive. Sticky-front bras have been in my wardrobe arsenal for years now, providing light support and lift in backless, strapless designs. But I’m always on the hunt for something better, whether that’s in terms of comfort, performance, or both. (Cakes just released their version, called the Cleavage Bra, which I am eager to try.) 

Sticky Cakes are a nice middle ground between going braless and the aforementioned sticky bras. The design has a small divot in the center (called a “nip nook”), so you don’t get adhesive anywhere near the delicate nipple area. When compared to Grippy Cakes, these felt more secure. The adhesive was tacky enough to stay in place (even in 90°F summer heat) but wasn’t so sticky that it hurt to remove it at the end of the day. Per the brand, the sticky versions can be worn at least 10 times with proper care and storage, which involves gently rinsing with warm water, air-drying them, and storing them in the included pouch. I would save this style for my backless summer dresses on the hottest days of the season or an outdoor summer music festival.

Final Thoughts

So, is Cakes worth the hype? I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed. The grippy styles are great from a sustainability perspective. To me, the triangle shapes are a game-changer thanks to the way you can rotate them to accommodate even the trickiest neckline work. I also felt like these were the most seamless, invisible alternative to bras I’ve tried so far. Out of all the combinations I tried, the sticky triangles ended up being the winner in my book, since the shape was a universal fit for any tricky wardrobe situation, and I like having the adhesive as an insurance measure.

Bonus: The brand is dedicated to supporting women’s health via Cakes Cares, the brand’s philanthropic arm, which has donated over a million dollars to breast cancer research and support programs. (As the daughter of a breast cancer survivor, I love this.)

Now that I’ve got a full wardrobe of Cakes at my disposal, I feel that my search for the perfect nipple cover has ended. From future wedding dance floors to music festivals and other sweaty, bra-unfriendly scenarios, I may never wear bras again — or at least for the summer.

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You wouldn’t be reading this unless David*, my sugar daddy, was putting £2,000 (around $2,600) directly into my bank account every month. I’m 32 and I’ve been in a financial arrangement with David, a divorced, 52-year-old American CEO, for three years. 

I met him on Seeking, the infamous sugar daddy website where young women needing financial assistance look for older, richer men who are willing to help. Officially, there is no exchange for sexual services permitted on Seeking but I won’t mince my words: It’s an escort site. Sex and money are at the forefront of every member’s interactions. 

Before meeting David, I’d had good and bad experiences with men I met on the site. One man took me to a cheap bar for a drink and offered me £200 ($260) for sex. I declined. Another gave me £16,000 cash ($20,700) at a gas station to rent my own flat for six months because he “wanted to help” and expected nothing in return. I accepted. Both are scenarios I’m still puzzled by. But when David and I started chatting, it felt more akin to normal dating. After a week of back-and-forth messaging, we met for the first time in one of London’s stylish restaurants. My train was delayed, leaving him waiting for 30 minutes past our agreed meeting time. I panicked, hating to be late, but he reassured me that he’d wait and insisted I didn’t rush. I finally turned up and what followed was just a really great date. We spoke at length on various topics and shared details of our personal lives over cocktails, wine and three courses. There was an instant connection and I think he knew it too. Conversation flowed despite our differing political viewpoints. Sex and money were put on the back burner. I could see how and why he was successful. He was charming, gentlemanly and intelligent. His net worth was also well into seven figures. 

Our arrangement started in December 2021 and progressed slowly. We scheduled dates across Mayfair (a wealthy part of London) and with each meet we became increasingly close, physically and mentally. Cuddling up in dark, quiet corners of upmarket cocktail bars, we’d talk softly, gently hold hands and passionately kiss between conversations. I’d rub my lower leg on his shins underneath the table and act suggestively but we always made sure to show decency in public, though the sexual tension was clear. When I kissed him, I could smell his aftershave — fresh and subtle. I loved that he always made an effort. He dressed smartly, looking every bit the CEO. He’d compliment me freely, flirting with me and telling me how great I looked but teasing me about yet another all-black outfit choice. Far from arrogant and rude, he treated waiting staff exceptionally well, leaving generous tips as he surreptitiously paid the bill (he is American, after all). Each time we called it a night, he’d ask me if I needed any help, subtly slipping £200 or £500 ($650) into my hand before finding a black cab to take me home. He was in and out of London, traveling with work and back to his main home in the States, so we didn’t sleep together for over a year after our first meeting. To this day, we’ve only slept together that one time. Our schedules are tricky to align.

After three years of messaging most days and financial help when needed, I asked David for more money. I was made redundant from my permanent writing role, London was getting expensive, my rent had gone up 25% and I was worried. I was embarrassed at first — it felt awkward and uncouth — but I was surprised by how unfazed he was. Here is a man who doesn’t worry about money, is generous with his own and understanding of my situation. He’s older than me and knows the difficulties of being young and broke but has never made me feel lesser because of it. From then on, he started depositing £500 directly into my account every Thursday. At one moment, during the London leg of Taylor Swift’s tour, I told him that I’d missed out on tickets but last-minute seats were available for an extortionate amount of money. Before I knew it, £1,000 ($1,300) was in my account and I was walking into Wembley Stadium. 

I am writing this anonymously so that I can be an open book, which means it’s true when I say that all he asks for in return are nude photos of me (which I am more than happy to provide), honesty and regular communication. I’m still perplexed by this so I asked him: “Why do you help me?” This is what he had to say: “Because I actually care about you! And there is a thrill and a mystery to us. Plus, there’s the fact I find you to be intelligent, sexy, funny and a challenge.” 

This relationship is obviously transactional but not like-for-like. David doesn’t demand pictures and I don’t demand payment. We stay in regular contact and conversation is fluid. I know what he wants and he knows what I want; an understanding and trust has formed over the years, which means we don’t need to speak constantly about the nature of the arrangement. I’m always quick to address friends’ concerns that I might feel pressure to do something I don’t want to do but David has always made it clear that under no circumstances am I to do anything I’m uncomfortable with. 

This relationship isn’t one-sided. I care a lot about him. He’s inspiring, thoughtful, kind and funny, and helps me look at life in a different way. He’s unwaveringly generous with his emotional support and money and in no way controlling. I am free to do as I please and go to him for advice, help or comfort when needed. I like to think I’m respectful of his time and money. I have managed to save a lot thanks to him and I never waste cash on frivolous material possessions (minus one designer handbag I couldn’t resist). I pay my rent and bills on time, I buy food and I’m able to visit my family thanks to him. I could easily splash the cash on more designer bags, shoes, clothes, extravagant evenings out and Ubers but I’m mature enough to realize how fortunate I am to be in this position. Am I also cheekily trying to persuade him to buy me a flat of my own? Yes, but you can’t blame a girl for trying. 

The crux of this arrangement is that I’m at an age where I have limited time to settle down and have children. I can’t afford to keep myself as a freelance journalist and I want to stay living in London. I could also be approaching a time where I’m no longer desirable to David. It might sound problematic but will he want to help me when I’m nearing 40? This crossroads in my life is slowly approaching. I know I need to get real, stop living in fantasy land and off someone else’s money but it’s complicated. I love this arrangement, I love money, I love my relationship with David and I don’t want it to end — but it’s unrealistic to expect it to go on forever.

Whether I can see myself ending up with David is something I occasionally think about but in all honesty, I think we both know it wouldn’t work. He’s a grandfather and I’d eventually want children. He’s American and his primary residence is in the US. We have a 20-year age gap. Logistically, it doesn’t add up. 

A handful of friends are aware of my arrangement but I keep my family in the dark. I hide this very big part of my life because of the overwhelming disapproval and judgment I know I’d receive. Of course, I am an adult and I’m aware of the perceived and very real exploitation of young women and how this is an incredibly important and contentious issue. Men are commonly seen to be taking advantage of struggling women in these kinds of relationships but my counter argument is that if it’s between two consenting adults who are happy to have this style of relationship and are communicating their needs effectively, does it hurt anyone? Is it as wrong as it’s sometimes made out to be? It goes without saying that I morally oppose any relationship of this kind where this isn’t the case. 

I am working hard to become financially independent as a journalist. I’m applying for full-time jobs and regularly pitching ideas to editors but if the time comes where I can’t make ends meet within this career choice or David decides to end the arrangement, I am willing to consider alternative employment and living circumstances. And while I’m not actively dating in the traditional sense, I would also consider ending the arrangement if the right man came along. In the three years I’ve known David, a handful of men my own age have asked me out — all on mediocre, unappealing dates. One asked me to come to his house to watch Netflix on the first date because he “couldn’t be bothered to take me for dinner.” One expected me to travel to a bar over an hour’s train ride away (and a five-minute walk from his flat) and one ghosted me after arranging drinks. I’m not against dating men my own age but, in my experience, older men tend to be far more gentlemanly and considerate, often meeting me halfway between our homes or insisting on dinner dates and getting me an Uber home so I’m safe. The chivalry is unmatched and while it might make me sound like a princess, I can’t help but find it incredibly attractive. 

I sought David’s permission to write this feature and while he wasn’t keen on the idea, I felt it was worthwhile to provide another viewpoint on sugar daddy relationships. Not all are problematic nor (forgive me) tit for tat; they can be respectful, honest and mutually beneficial.

*Name has been changed to protect identity

This article was published in October 2024 and has since been updated.

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Think of the nail polish shades you know by name — the ones you sift through shelves lined with tiny glass bottles to find every time you're at Ulta. Chances are, they all come in square-shaped containers with a white 'Essie' label on the side — and the next person will be hunting for the exact same color three minutes after you walk out to your car.

Essie is one of those nail polish brands with many iconic shades, like Ballet Slippers (which is a favorite of royalty and Hollywood alike). And while you can probably guess a few of the brand's 10 best-selling shades, there are some unexpected hues on the list that don't fall into the neutral category that Essie has become famous for.

Click through to find the Essie nail polish shades everyone in the world digs for — and see if you agree. Who knows, maybe you'll replace your tried-and-true Essie shade for something new.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

#1 Ballet Slippers

Oh, Ballet Slippers. Is anyone surprised that the tasteful, barely-there pink is the brand's best seller? We can assure you that Mandy Moore and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are not.

Essie Ballet Slippers, $, available at Ulta

#2 Mademoiselle

The runner-up to Ballet Slippers is a very similar — but slightly cooler — blush tone in the shade Mademoiselle. It suits everyone and looks equally chic on fingers as it does on toes.

Essie Mademoiselle, $, available at Ulta

#3 Eternal Optimist

Eternal Optimist falls somewhere between pink and beige, and some consider it the perfect nude for medium skin tones.

Essie Eternal Optimist, $, available at Ulta

#4 Blanc

If you're looking for a multipurpose polish — one you can use for a full-coverage, fresh white pedicure and dotted nail art — Essie's Blanc is a foolproof pick. Professional nail artist Michelle Saunders tells us that she even likes to use it to give her color polish a little more pop. "You can apply a color polish over a coat of Blanc, and it almost looks neon," she says.

Essie Blanc, $, available at Ulta

#5 Lady Like

For a natural flush of pink color — just in case Target's fresh out of Ballet Slippers and Mademoiselle — pick up Lady Like, which has top-five status.

Essie Lady Like, $, available at Ulta

#6 Bikini So Teeny

Nudes are well and good, but we all need a pastel polish in our collection. Essie's Bikini So Teeny — the quintessential robin's-egg blue shade — sounds fit for a beach mani, but we're wearing it beyond summer, too.

Essie Bikini So Teeny, $, available at Ulta

#7 Sugar Daddy

Despite looking Pepto Bismol pink in the bottle, Sugar Daddy is super-sheer, almost like a clear gloss with a hint of something more.

Essie Sugar Daddy, $, available at Ulta

#8 Mrs. Always-Right

Essie describes Mrs. Always-Right as a terracotta rose, which sounds just as gorgeous as it looks on a mani-pedi.

Essie Mrs Always-Right, $, available at Ulta

#9 Muchi, Muchi

More opaque than Sugar Daddy, Muchi Muchi is a true pastel pink, delivering that bright-but-not-too-scream-y manicure, perfect for Valentine's Day.

Essie Muchi, Muchi, $, available at Ulta

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There’s always something keeping us entertained in the nail world. So far this year, we’ve spotted innovations like Hard BIAB, a type of reinforced builder gel that adds serious strength and structure to your nails, not to mention an abundance of nail trends, like the “phantom” French manicure and chrome croc nails. Most of these techniques are all geared towards nail aesthetics, lending themselves to cool custom designs or colors. Rarely are they a targeted remedy for dry, brittle and weak nails. Until recently, that is. Say hello to the Japanese manicure.

What is the Japanese manicure? 

We first reported on the Japanese manicure in 2024, but it has a long history. It’s a ritualistic experience first and foremost, says nail expert Gabriella Ferenczi from Figaro London. Often referred to as ‘P.Shine’ after the company that brought the ritual to the masses, the method is thought to date back around 400 years in Japan.

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The Japanese manicure has one main aim: to improve the health of your nails and give them a beautiful pearlescent finish, like these nails posted to Instagram by @sweettreatvienna. “In essence, it’s about massaging nutrients deep into your nail plate to make your nails super healthy so that they shine on their own without the need for a drop of polish,” explains Ferenczi. The method doesn’t promise any additional nail length or out-there nail art. Instead, it can transform neglected, weak nails, especially those that have been subjected to gels or acrylics.

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We’re talking strictly kind-to-the-nail tools, no harsh solvents and absolutely zero nail polish. You might be thinking, so what’s the point? It’s all in the name of nail health. Given that many of us go against every nail technician’s wish of using cuticle oil every day, it’s just the ticket for breathing life into dry, damaged nail beds and turning them into pearly new canvases. Take inspiration from these nails posted to Instagram by @ma.mi.nails.

@nails.and.brows Japanese manicure to strengthen your nails and give it extra shine ✨💫 #kuwait🇰🇼 #japanesemanicure #nailsandbrow #nailskuwait #fypシ゚ #الكويت ♬ we cant be friends – 🫧

In line with the manicure’s age-old roots, no metal tools or solvents are used throughout the process. “Only ceramic nail files and traditional polishing units and natural oils are used,” says Ferenczi. As this is a very old practice, some salons enlist deer or calfskin files and cloths. However, nowadays, many salons opt for cruelty-free tools, and if you’re doing this at home, you can just use a simple nail buffer. 

London-based session manicurist Ami Streets says: “It really brings the manicure routine back to basics. You’re incorporating the application of oils, pushing back (but not cutting) the cuticles and providing a hand massage.” Not only does the Japanese manicure impart a beautifully groomed aesthetic, but it also gives nails a break from the use of electric tools (potentially damaging if used incorrectly) or nail polish formulas (which can often stain), adds Streets. “It’s great for rest periods between gel polish or extensions, as you can get nails and hands back into optimum condition.”

What happens during the Japanese manicure? 

The first step in a traditional Japanese manicure is cleansing and shaping your nails with a nail file, and pushing the cuticles back. A gentle cuticle remover may also be used here, whether a lotion or a snipping tool.

Next, the nail plate is smoothed using a buffer and a stiff brush. Thirdly, a green paste is applied onto the nail plate. It’s typically made from a mix of vitamins A and E, bee pollen, keratin (a protein found naturally in nails) and silica (a mineral from the Sea of Japan), explains Ferenczi. “It has a characteristic green color and also contains different oils such as jojoba, bamboo, ylang-ylang and red tea.” This is then gently buffed in using a chamois (a natural leather) tool. 

@alextt_99 #japanesemanicure #pshine #nailsnailsnails #naturalnails ♬ original sound – Alex

Once all the nails have been buffed with the paste, the manicurist gently buffs a mineral powder into each nail plate, again with the chamois. The powder (often known as P.Shine powder) is made from diatomaceous earth (a naturally occurring, soft sedimentary rock that can be crumbled into a fine powder) as well as beeswax, explains Ferenczi. “It’s used to seal in the nutrients from the paste and to give the nails a slight pink sheen that lasts for about two weeks.”

When combined, the paste and powder trap in moisture and nutrients to lend the most incredible gleam. It’s hard to believe the result isn’t actually caused by a high-shine top coat. The final step is a good hand massage using thick creams and cuticle oils. 

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Can the Japanese manicure help weak nails?  

That’s exactly what it can do. “The Japanese manicure is essentially a strengthening treatment for brittleness,” says Ferenczi. The ingredients in both the powder and paste are great for reinforcing weak nails. “Beeswax in particular is an excellent emollient, which means it retains moisture,” says Streets, while the addition of keratin can help to rebuild the nail structure. 

The hand massage is also important. “Using nourishing products will result in smooth, hydrated and healthy skin, as well as strong, flexible nails that withstand wear and tear and can grow,” says Streets. When it comes to moisturizing your hands, Streets adds, consistency is key.

@lemaribeauty Japanese manicure, from dull nails to shiny, without using nail varnish 👌🏼#españa #españa #tenerife #manicura #beauty ♬ Do It To It – ACRAZE

Streets predicts that treatments like the Japanese manicure are only going to grow in popularity, and Ferenczi agrees. “We definitely see a demand for health-conscious manicures where the focus is on natural ingredients,” she says. “The Japanese manicure is a good choice for someone who wants to take a break from extensions and gel polish, especially.”

How much is the Japanese manicure and how long does it last?

The best thing about the Japanese manicure is that it’s speedy. Usually the method only takes around 30 minutes. To find a salon that offers the Japanese manicure near you, head to the salon app, Booksy. Prices will vary from salon to salon, but as the treatment is short and doesn’t include any polish application, you can expect it to cost less than your usual manicure. Similar to gel polish, the naturally glossy effect of the Japanese manicure lasts up to two weeks.

If you fancy giving this manicure a go at home, you can buy the P.Shine kit from Amazon, but it might set you back a little more than a regular buffer, which you can get from somewhere like Ulta. Try the Revlon Shape ‘N’ Buff File & Buffer, which has file, buff, and shine edges. When it comes to sealing in moisture, R29 rates Sally Hansen Cuticle Massage Cream, with beeswax, similar to the paste used in a professional Japanese manicure. Lastly, a great hand cream is a must. Try L’Occitane Nourishing and Protective Shea Butter Hand Cream with moisturizing glycerin, shea butter, and a handful of oils.

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The height of the summer season is upon us, bringing the heat and theatrics, too. The sun shakes up our lives as it enters the zodiac sign of Leo on July 22nd. For the next four weeks, we will roar louder than we have in the past because the celestial forces above are stirring up chaos for us earthlings (very fitting for Leo’s solar return, right?). Get ready for the spiritual awakening of a lifetime because the planets are coming in hot to ensure we release fear and step into a new emotional space.

The sun in Leo connects with three planets on July 27th: Uranus in Gemini, Neptune retrograde in Aries, and Pluto retrograde in Aquarius. Power struggles and jealousies will persist, pushing us to confront matters that have been swept under the rug and for far too long. The issue is that our desire to escape reality and to not deal with these types of situations creates tension with others. But the emotional bubble will burst, ending with a confrontation. The other way to look at this aspect is to be honest and open by engaging in the hard conversations that need to be had. 

On July 29th, the day of the Full Buck Moon, Jupiter forms a “cazimi” [a Latin term that translates to “the heart of the sun”] union with the sun, magnifying the influence of the expansive planet. Jupiter is known as the “greater benefic”; however, its effects can be both positive and negative. The favorable element of Jupiter brings fortune, abundance, and luck, but the adverse traits enhance circumstances that might be best left as they are. Watch out for indulgence and excess to avoid destructive habits. The day could go either way — overall, it’s going to be intense with the other aspects coming to light from the lunation. 

The sun in Leo harmonizes with Saturn retrograde in Aries on August 6th. We might feel as though restrictions and obstacles stand in the way of how we want to live. Limits may be placed on our freedoms, making us less confident than usual. This is only a moment in time, so doing affirmative work that boosts our self-esteem is ideal. Be less critical and more kind to yourself. 

August 12th’s total solar eclipse in Leo is a transformational cosmic phenomenon that will rock our word. We are taking stock of how we can move above and beyond the present to cultivate a beautiful future. The journey there could be messy if we refuse to refresh our dreams and goals. We’ll feel the energy of the eclipse until August 22nd, when the sun in Leo opposes the North Node of Destiny in Aquarius, ushering us to a new state of being. 

Important dates during Leo Season:

July 22nd: The sun enters Leo, adding flair and fire to our auras. Take center stage and shine as bright as the sun!

July 23rd: Mercury turns direct in Cancer, tracing over the degrees it visited in the previous month. The retroshade phase, which lasts until August 6th, gives us a chance to clear up miscommunications and mishaps.

July 26th: Saturn retrograde in Aries offers us a moment to redefine boundaries and the periphery of our careers. 

July 26th: The North Node of Destiny moves into Aquarius, and the South Node of Destiny glides into Aquarius, inviting us to innovate our visions and focus on the community. 

July 29th: The Full Buck Moon in Aquarius brings immense growth and development that is vital for us to undergo. 

August 6th: Venus shifts into Libra, evoking our romantic sentiments and yearning to find balance in all we do.

August 9th: Mercury gets passionate in the sign Leo, making big declarations that we may not be able to fulfill — be careful and do not overpromise. 

August 11th: Mars swims into Cancer, softening our reactions and urging us to be protective of our energy.

August 12th: The total solar eclipse in Leo is an opportunity to release and evolve — if we are ready for it.

August 22nd: The sun enters Virgo, grounding our senses and allowing us to be pragmatic in our lives. 

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Welcome to one of the most empowering weeks of July, cosmic beings. The week begins with Jupiter, the planet of abundance, forming a beautiful trine to Neptune, the planet of dreams, reminding us that some opportunities are simply too meaningful to keep postponing. If there’s a dream you’ve been nurturing, this is your invitation to take one bold step toward it. That same day, however, Jupiter opposes Pluto, revealing the inner fears, limiting beliefs, and self-sabotaging patterns that may try to convince you you’re not ready. This isn’t a battle between good luck and bad luck. It’s a choice between trusting your potential and continuing to let old stories decide what’s possible. Dream boldly, but stay rooted in reality. Confidence grows strongest when it’s supported by preparation, self-awareness, and intentional action.

On July 21st, the First Quarter Moon in Libra reminds us that progress often requires adjustment rather than perfection. If something feels out of balance, this is your chance to make a thoughtful course correction before pushing ahead. At the same time, Jupiter forms a harmonious aspect with Uranus, bringing unexpected opportunities, exciting conversations, and refreshing breakthroughs that reward flexibility. Stay open to pleasant surprises this week. The opportunity you’re hoping for may arrive in a form you hadn’t considered.

The energy becomes noticeably lighter as the week comes to a close. The sun enters Leo on July 22nd, Mercury stations direct on July 23rd, and Leo Season officially comes alive with Jupiter already blazing through the sign. After weeks of reflection, hesitation, and revision, momentum begins returning. This is your reminder to stop shrinking your gifts, hiding your talents, or waiting for permission to be seen. The final days of this week are filled with courage, creativity, and confidence. Take up space, celebrate your progress, and let yourself be witnessed. The second half of 2026 is asking you to lead with your heart, trust your light, and remember that your authenticity is one of your greatest strengths.

Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast.

Aries Sun & Rising:

Aries, this week’s First Quarter Moon in Libra reminds you that every meaningful relationship eventually asks for honesty. The moon lands in your partnership sector, bringing the first real checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon. If you’ve been avoiding a conversation, waiting for someone else to make the first move, or struggling to balance your own needs with someone else’s, this lunation encourages you to address it with openness instead of assumption. You don’t have to solve everything overnight, but you do need to be clear about where you stand. The strongest relationships aren’t the ones without friction — they’re the ones where both people are willing to keep choosing each other through it.

Then in the week’s second half, Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your romance, fame, and inner child sector, while Mercury stations direct in your home and family zone the very next day. The emotional fog you’ve been navigating begins to lift, making it easier to move forward with confidence. It’s time to share the creative project, flirt a little, laugh more, and let yourself be seen. The more joy you allow yourself to experience now, the more naturally you’ll step into the momentum that’s waiting for you as July comes to a close.

Taurus Sun & Rising:

Taurus, your daily routine is asking for a tune-up, not a complete renovation. The First Quarter Moon in Libra activates your wellness, habits, and work zone, bringing your attention to the little things that shape your quality of life. If you’ve been trying to do everything perfectly, this is your reminder that consistency beats intensity every time. Maybe it’s going to bed thirty minutes earlier, taking your lunch break instead of working through it, or finally scheduling the appointment you’ve been putting off. Small adjustments made this week have a way of snowballing into big results. Future you is already saying thank you.

By the second half of the week, the energy feels noticeably lighter. Leo Season begins the 22nd, illuminating your home and family sector alongside Jupiter, making this a beautiful time to create a life that feels just as good behind closed doors as it looks from the outside. Some Taureans will feel called to move, redecorate, renovate, or spend more intentional time with family, while others will simply realize that peace has become one of their biggest definitions of success. Then Mercury stations direct in your communication realm, and suddenly conversations start flowing again. Texts stop getting misread, plans come together more easily, and yes— your dry sense of humor finally lands the way you intended instead of making everyone wonder if they should be offended.

Gemini Sun & Rising:

Gemini, this week’s First Quarter Moon in Libra reminds you that joy deserves to be taken as seriously as your responsibilities. The moon activates your creativity, romance, and inner child zone, bringing the first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon. If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” moment to share your work, ask someone out, pick up a forgotten hobby, or simply do something because it makes you happy, this is your sign. The little voice telling you it’s impractical or that you should be doing something more productive doesn’t get to make every decision. Your creativity is trying to show you the way forward, and the more you trust it, the more momentum you’ll build over the next six months.

By the second half of the week, life starts flowing in your favor again. On the 22nd Leo Season begins, lighting up your communication sector alongside Jupiter, making your ideas bigger, your confidence stronger, and your voice much harder to ignore. Then Mercury, your ruling planet, stations direct in your money realm, and you can practically hear your wallet exhale. If the past few weeks felt like money came in only to disappear just as quickly, or you’ve been playing financial Tetris trying to make everything fit, relief is on the way. Fresh ideas, unexpected opportunities, and smarter ways of creating income begin finding you again. You’ve always had a knack for making something out of nothing, and now the cosmos is finally giving you a little more room to work your magic.

Cancer Sun & Rising:

Cancer, this week’s First Quarter Moon reminds you that the life you’re building begins with the foundation you’re standing on. The moon activates your home, family, and emotional foundation zone, bringing the first checkpoint since last week’s New Moon in your sign. If you’ve been setting intentions around creating a greater sense of peace, this is where you begin putting them into practice. You may need to have an honest conversation with a family member, reorganize your living space, or simply acknowledge that your emotional needs deserve as much attention as everyone else’s. The more supported you feel in your private life, the easier everything else begins to flow.

By the second half of the week, the energy shifts in a refreshing way. Leo Season begins the 22nd, activating your money and self-worth sector alongside Jupiter, opening the door to greater abundance, confidence, and opportunities to grow your income over the coming year. Then Mercury stations direct in your sign the next day, and it feels like you’re finally coming back to yourself. The mental fog begins lifting, conversations become easier, and decisions that felt impossible a few weeks ago suddenly seem much more straightforward. Trust yourself again. You’ve spent the retrograde gathering wisdom, and now you’re ready to move forward with a clearer mind and a stronger sense of what you truly deserve.

Leo Sun & Rising:

Leo, the First Quarter Moon in Libra reminds you that your voice deserves to be heard. This lunation activates your communication zone, bringing the first meaningful checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon. A conversation may need to happen, a message may need to be shared, or you may simply realize you’ve been sitting on an idea that’s ready to leave your notebook and enter the real world. Trust yourself enough to speak with clarity rather than waiting until everything feels perfect. Every meaningful dream begins with someone being willing to say it out loud, and this week, that someone is you.

Then your favorite time of year officially arrives. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, and with Jupiter already in your sign, you’re stepping into one of the most expansive, joyful, and fortunate chapters you’ve experienced in over a decade. This is your solar return season, and the universe is reminding you exactly who you are. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in your spirituality and healing realm, bringing closure to weeks of reflection and helping you move forward with a lighter heart. If you’ve spent the first half of July clearing emotional clutter, the second half is about letting your light shine without apologizing for it. Celebrate yourself and walk into each room like you belong there, because this year, you absolutely do.

Virgo Sun & Rising:

Virgo, the First Quarter Moon in Libra shines a light on your money and self-worth sector, asking you to pause and appreciate how far you’ve already come. This is the first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon, and it invites you to make thoughtful adjustments to the goals you’ve been setting around abundance, confidence, and security. You may realize there’s a skill you haven’t been charging enough for, a financial habit that’s ready to evolve, or a belief about your worth that’s been limiting you. Keep your eyes on the long game. The choices you make this week have the power to strengthen both your finances and your confidence over the months ahead.

The second half of the week feels like a breath of fresh air. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your spirituality and healing zone alongside Jupiter, making this a beautiful period for rest, intuition, and preparing for your own season just around the corner. Think of it as the final exhale before your birthday chapter begins. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury, your ruling planet, stations direct in your friendship and community sector, helping conversations flow more easily and bringing clarity to group projects, collaborations, and future plans. If you’ve been waiting to reconnect with someone, launch a collaborative idea, or step back into your community with more confidence, the timing starts working in your favor again.

Libra Sun & Rising:

Libra, the First Quarter Moon in your sign puts you front and center. This is your first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon, asking you to balance your personal needs with the goals and responsibilities you’ve been carrying. You may feel pulled in different directions at first, but the answer isn’t trying to make everyone happy. It’s listening to yourself before seeking everyone else’s opinion. If you’ve been waiting for permission to make a decision, change your mind, or put yourself first, consider this your cosmic green light. The more authentic your choices become, the more balanced your relationships naturally feel.

The second half of the week feels lighter and far more social. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your friendship, community, and long-term vision zone alongside Jupiter, making this one of the best times in years to expand your network, collaborate, and dream bigger than you have in a long time. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in your career sector, helping professional plans regain momentum after weeks of revisions and second-guessing. Interviews, launches, important conversations, and career decisions begin flowing more naturally again. The doors opening now are connected to the intentions you’ve been nurturing behind-the-scenes all month, so don’t hesitate to walk through them.

Scorpio Sun & Rising:

Scorpio, as the week begins, the First Quarter Moon in Libra shines a light on your spirituality and healing zone, reminding you that rest is productive too. This is the first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon, and it invites you to slow down long enough to hear your own intuition again. If you’ve been carrying something emotionally without realizing how heavy it’s become, this week helps you set it down. Spend time journaling, meditating, praying, or simply being somewhere that calms your mind. Some of your biggest breakthroughs this week will come from giving yourself enough space to hear the answers that have been trying to find you all along.

The second half of the week shifts gears in a big way. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your career and legacy sector alongside Jupiter, making you one of the zodiac signs most likely to receive greater visibility, recognition, and exciting professional opportunities over the coming year. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in fellow Water sign Cancer, bringing clarity back to your vision for the future after weeks of reflection. Travel plans, business ideas, educational goals, or entrepreneurial dreams begin gaining traction again. The second half of July reminds you that you’re not dreaming too big — you’re finally dreaming at the level your life is ready to meet.

Sagittarius Sun & Rising:

Sag, the week begins with the First Quarter Moon in Libra, bringing your friendships, community, and long-term dreams into focus. Since last week’s Cancer New Moon, you’ve been reflecting on deeper themes of trust, vulnerability, and shared resources. Now you’re reminded that some of your biggest goals won’t happen in isolation. Reach out to the mentor, follow up with the collaborator, or say yes to the networking event or the group project. The people you’re surrounding yourself with now are helping shape the direction of your next chapter, so be intentional about who gets a front-row seat in your life.

By the second half of the week, your adventurous spirit comes roaring back. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your expansion, travel, and higher learning sector alongside your ruling planet, Jupiter. This is one of the most exciting transits you’ve experienced in years, encouraging you to think globally, dream boldly, and stop talking yourself out of opportunities that genuinely excite you. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in your intimacy and shared resources zone, helping financial matters, investments, and important relationship conversations move forward with greater clarity. The path ahead feels much more open now, and you’ll likely find yourself saying “yes” a lot more often than “maybe later.”

Capricorn Sun & Rising:

Capricorn, the week begins with the First Quarter Moon in Libra, bringing your career and long-term goals into sharper focus. This is the first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon, asking you to make sure your professional ambitions still reflect the life you’re actually trying to build. You may need to refine a plan, adjust your priorities, or have an important conversation with someone in a leadership position. Progress is happening, even if it doesn’t all happen at once. Trust that every thoughtful decision you’re making now is strengthening the foundation of your legacy.

The second half of the week invites you to go deeper. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your transformation, intimacy, and shared resources zone alongside Jupiter, opening the door to greater financial support, emotional healing, and meaningful partnerships over the coming year. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in your relationship sector, bringing welcome clarity after weeks of mixed signals or emotional revisiting. Conversations become easier, misunderstandings begin clearing up, and you’ll feel much more confident about where your closest relationships are headed.

Aquarius Sun & Rising:

Aquarius, as the week begins, the First Quarter Moon in Libra encourages you to think bigger than your current circumstances. This lunation activates your realm of expansion, travel, higher education, and entrepreneurship, bringing the first meaningful checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon. If you’ve been dreaming about launching something, traveling somewhere new, going back to school, or expanding your horizons in any way, this week asks you to take one concrete step toward it. You don’t have to see the entire staircase before taking the first step. Momentum has a funny way of creating clarity as you move.

The second half of the week brings beautiful energy to your relationships. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your partnership zone alongside Jupiter, making this one of the luckiest periods in over a decade for love, collaboration, and meaningful one-on-one connections. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in your wellness and routines sector, helping you find your rhythm again after a few weeks that may have felt a little scattered. Your schedule becomes easier to manage, your motivation returns, and the healthy habits you’ve been trying to establish finally begin sticking.

Pisces Sun & Rising:

Pisces, the week begins with the First Quarter Moon in Libra, inviting you to trust that the deepest growth often happens beneath the surface. This lunation activates your transformation, shared resources, and emotional healing zone, bringing the first checkpoint since last week’s Cancer New Moon. Financial decisions, relationship dynamics, or old emotional patterns may ask for your attention, but not to overwhelm you. You’re becoming much more intentional about what — and who — you invest your energy in. Every healthy boundary you set now creates more space for the life you’re growing into.

The second half of the week helps you put that inner work into practice. Leo Season begins on July 22nd, activating your work, wellness, and daily routines sector alongside Jupiter, making the next year one of your strongest periods for creating a lifestyle that truly supports your purpose. Then, on July 23rd, Mercury stations direct in fellow Water sign Cancer, bringing fresh momentum back to your creativity, dating life, and inner child. Ideas begin flowing again, romance feels lighter, and the joy you’ve been searching for becomes much easier to recognize. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to create, love, or play — the energy is already inviting you in.

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