Written by Julia Szabo
Produced by Doris Athineos
LEO / July 23–Aug. 22
Ever the gracious, generous host, sun-ruled Leo’s lucky day of the week is, appropriately, Sunday. The height of summertime is Leo season, so if you’re invited to brunch at a Lion’s lair, by all means RSVP “Yes!” You’re likely to enjoy mimosas made with Moët and freshly squeezed orange juice (citrus fruits are a Leo favorite), sangria spiked with Hennessy, or mojitos muddled with fresh peppermint (a favorite Leo herb). Take along an armful of Valencia oranges, bunches of sunflowers or marigolds, or a bouquet of orange roses. You get the idea—Leo warms to any gift infused with a zesty hue.
The generous gift giver of the zodiac, Leos are first to pick up the tab, so count on them to find the most thoughtful gifts. Leos flush with cash spare no expense, while those on budgets put extra care into their selections, giving new meaning to that old saying, “All that glitters is not gold.” Those born under this sign like to bask in the sun’s rays as often as possible. Help them prevent painful burns: Give family-oriented lions a gift basket of sunscreens and skin-drenching lotions for everyone in their pride, from tender cubs to the wise elders.
The bumblebee happens to be the symbol of famous Leo Napoleon Bonaparte, but all Lions appreciate gifts that celebrate this busy creature—handcrafted beeswax candles by Big Dipper or manuka honey, prized for its delicious flavor and antibacterial properties. Or, give your Leo a set of La Rochère bee glasses, a serving plate from the New York Botanical Garden, or a DVD of the entertaining, insightful documentary Queen of the Sun.
The Other 11 Signs
In honor of Leo season, here’s a garden of summertime gifts fit for a Lion king or queen!
VIRGO / Aug. 23–Sept. 22
This sign loves to cook—and stay neat while doing so. A stain-resistant Crypton apron protects the grill master or mistress from anything that goes splat!
LIBRA / Sept. 23–Oct. 22
An elegant bird feeder or birdbath (such as the ones in the Monticello Gift Collection ) will let this stylish, compassionate, nature-loving air sign look out for fellow creatures of the air.
SCORPIO / Oct. 23–Nov. 21
Give the zodiac’s seducer a CD that puts a sexy new spin on a traditional form. Consider Togi by heartthrob Hideki Togi, renowned for hipping the world to gagaku, the ancient court music of Japan.
SAGITTARIUS / Nov. 22–Dec. 21
Outdoors and in, the zodiac’s Archer loves games that involve horses or arrows. Consider the gift of a horseshoes set from Pottery Barn or a dartboard in a wooden cabinet.
CAPRICORN / Dec. 22–Jan. 19
The hardworking Goat, who’s often on his or her feet, appreciates sensible shoes. “SunSign Soles” from Musewear Flip Flops are a whimsical yet practical gift.
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