DIY Astro Guide: What Your Horoscope Means This Week, 10/3/2016

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, Virgo! Allow this to be your mantra of the week as you learn from your mistakes and take the high road. This week will bring along its own set of challenges, but you’re totally well-equipped to handle whatever’s coming your way. Between launching your side hustle and ending a three-year relationship, there’s nothing you can’t overcome.

Read This: Trouble in paradise? Here’s why the end of summer could mean the end of a relationship. (Photo via Getty)

Libra: September 23 – October 22

New Libra, new rules: It’s time to take matters into your own hands and go after what you want. You’d be ah-mazed at what you can accomplish when you stop making sacrifices for everyone else and start setting goals. Whether you resolve to work out more, cut out unnecessary spending (sorry, but those velvet ankle booties will have to wait!) or start saying “yes” to more opportunities, there’s nothing you can’t do.

Read This: Adulting is hard y’all! Check out these 13 finance apps that all twentysomethings should download.

Scorpio: October 23 – November 21

The five-year plan can wait, Scorpio! You’ve got too much going for you in the now to worry about what will happen down the road. Besides, who knows what the rest of 2016 will bring? A gap year, a one-year contract abroad or an engagement of sorts could turn your world upside down. For now, channel your creativity through journaling, zen yoga and painting for a newfound perspective.

Read This: Start fresh with these eight New Age self-help books to inspire your own fall awakening. Autumn cannot come soon enough.

Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21

Resist the urge to get caught up in petty drama that will only leave you feeling more defeated in the end. Instead, man (or woman up) to any mistakes you might’ve made and be all ears when your roomie or bestie is ready to talk. At the same time, know when it’s okay to stand up for yourself — whether at home or in the boardroom, disrespect is one thing that should never be tolerated.

Read This: It’s not always rainbows and unicorns when you’re rooming with your BFF. Here’s how to deal when you’re SUPER mad at your roommate. (Photo via Getty)

Capricorn: December 22 – January 19

Don’t you dare add one more football tailgate, business function or double date to your iCal — at least until you’ve penciled in some time for yourself. If August proved to be a doozy, then expect September to be 10 times crazier. With fall wedding season around the corner, you may want to rethink your game plan; the last thing you want to do is overcommit to too many things, only to drop out at the last second.

Read This: Stress begone! We’ve put together six expert tips for a crazy productive and stress-free life. (Photo via Getty)

Aquarius: January 20 – February 1

Adventure awaits you, Aquarius! Playing it safe takes a backseat to your spontaneous side as you start living life to the fullest. After a summer spent taking it easy, you’re feeling ready to make a major career change, go skydiving or even try out a new Mexican restaurant for Taco Tuesday. Your sense of independence may inspire you to test out the entrepreneurial waters later this month by launching your own business.

Read This: This just in: Here’s how to quit your day job and start a FroYo shop. Can you say career #goals? (Photo via Loving Cup)

Pisces: February 19 – March 20

Cue the goal-setting sesh as you suddenly have an urge to do ALL the things. Follow in Emily Weiss’s footsteps by launching your own beauty empire or debuting your own lifestyle blog. Just don’t get too ahead of yourself — before you make any investments, you need a plan, Pisces! Play your cards right and all your dreams *could* become a reality.

Read This: Say no more: The formula to find and land your dream job is right here. Sign us up, please.

Aries: March 21 – April 19

The tables have turned and romance is finally in the air for fellow Aries hoping to find “the one.” It looks like you’ll be the one handing out the roses this season as the suitors start lining up in an effort to win your affection. Instead of going for the cookie-cutter type you always fall for, take the opposites attract approach by dating someone who excites and intrigues you.

Read This: Love is literally at your fingertips these days! Check out what these five real women have to say about their favorite dating app.

Taurus: April 20 – May 20

You’re at your happiest state when you look and feel good. If summer was a time to sip and savor calorie-filled drinks by the beach, then fall is reserved to getting back into tip-top shape. It’s time to empty out your pantry and swap out your midnight snacks for healthy acai bowls. Besides, being a fit girl practically gives you an excuse to invest in the latest athleisure staples.

Read This: Workin’ up a sweat has never looked so good. Prepare to be obsessed: We’ve compiled six activewear brands you need to know.

Gemini: May 21 – June 20

Don’t back down now: The time has come to test drive a dramatic new ‘do or give your childhood dream of starring on Broadway a fair shot. If not now, then when?! Thanks to your fifth house of glamour and fame, you’ll feel more inclined than usual to swipe on an extra coat of gloss and style a head-to-toe Man Repeller-inspired look for the boardroom. A fancy-schmancy set of headshots and a rooftop photo shoot, may or may not be in order.

Read This: Because we know you’re just dying to know, here’s how Kim K gets perfect selfies every time. You’re welcome. (Photo via Tabatha Fireman + Charley Gallay/Getty)

Cancer: June 21 – July 22

To stay put or try out a new ‘hood — that is the million dollar question. While you could renovate your old house that’s seen better days, you could just as easily search for a new place in a different area code. Or perhaps, you’re ready to move to LA (or NYC!) with your college roomie for the adventure of a lifetime.

Read This: But not so fast! Look no further than these 17 unique wall art display ideas that aren’t another gallery wall. You may not want to move after all. (Photo via Home Designing)

Leo: July 23 – August 22

Thrill-seeking Leos cannot be tamed. Labor Day weekend is no exception, as you’ll quite essentially be the party starter. While everyone else is hightailing it to the beach, you’re just fine throwing an epic backyard BBQ. Cue the booze, lawn games and bonfire as you and your squad bid farewell to yet another summer for the books.

Read This: Channel your hostess with the mostess with these 22 ideas for throwing the best Labor Day party EVER.

Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more daily inspiration and check out your full AstroStyle horoscope!

(h/t AstroStyle)

1. DIY Felt Message Board: For Aries who appreciate clean lines, this simple felt message board is a decor must. Throw in a fitting inspirational quote from your favorite girlboss and you’re all set. (via Francois et Moi)

2. DIY 2016 Planner: Organization is key for Aries who stay true to their zodiac’s active and fast-paced lifestyle. Make sure you stay on top of your game with this chic black and white DIY planner. (via Almost Makes Perfect)

Taurus

3. DIY Cork Board Wall Art: Like their warm-hearted demeanor, Taureans are attracted to a similarly warm color palette. Channel your affinity for earthy tones and rustic chic elements with this Southwestern-themed wall art made of IKEA cork boards. (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)

4. DIY Concrete Bud Vases: As an earth sign, it’s no surprise that Taurus signs are drawn to all things plant-related. Embrace your grounded bull spirit and appreciation for greenery with these sturdy concrete bud vases. (via Burkatron)

Gemini

5. DIY Glittery Graphic Pencil Cases: Not one to shy from color, Gemini signs love to experiment with bright hues and fun details. With tons of glitter, fringe accents and bold shades, this DIY project seems like it was *made* for the most fun-loving zodiac. (via Studio DIY)

6. DIY Flair Chair: Sociable and charming, Gemini are well-versed when it comes to engaging in emoji-speak. Give your office chair, armchair or pouf a modern eclectic Gemini flair by decking it out with your favorite emoji. (via Studio DIY)

Cancer

7. DIY Baking Jars: Whether you’re cooking or baking, these handy jars make refined and practical kitchen essentials. If you’re as fond of the kitchen as your zodiac suggests, this set of baking jars is a definite yes. (via Tell Love and Party)

8. DIY Geometric Tasseled Pillows: Give yourself the ultimate gift of comfort, which is one of your Cancer sign’s biggest values. It doesn’t hurt that these cozy geometric tasseled pillows are undeniably stylish. (via Brit + Co)

Leo

9. DIY Red Lips Flats: Leos are recognized for their distinctly bold and daring personality, which, unsurprisingly, doesn’t stop short of their style. Spice up any ordinary pair of shoes with flaming red lips to give it that Leo-inspired It-factor. (via Damask Love)

10. DIY Kate Spade Inspired Heart Tote: You’re no stranger to vibrant accessories, so this DIY Kate Spade-inspired heart tote is the one for you. Its striking red color is sure to win a plus in your book. (via Riva La Diva)

Virgo

11. DIY Notebooks: For the meticulous and organized Virgo, these DIY notebooks are a must-have. They’re super simple to make: Just cover plain notebooks with wrapping paper and self-adhesive letters. (via Burkatron)

12. DIY Cat Sleeping Mask: Virgos who find themselves caught up in their zodiac’s perfectionist tendencies should remember to stop, step back and relax. This adorable cat-inspired sleeping mask will surely help you do just that. (via Alma Camponesa)

Libra

13. “Have Courage, My Love” Printable: For Libra-born makers, maintaining peace and harmony is a priority in their lives. Encourage yourself to continuously rise above conflict and chaos with this positive and uplifting message. (via Gold Standard Workshop)

14. DIY Lion Piggy Bank: When it comes to budgeting, Libras know exactly where their money is. Excellent though they may already be with handling money, this elegant lion bank surely won’t hurt. (via The Things She Makes)

Scorpio

15. DIY Totes: Scorpios that are always out and about will love this modern everyday tote. Simply iron the free silhouette onto a plain tote bag and add any embellishments for extra flair — think: pom pom trim, tassel keychain, etc. (via The Pretty Life Girls)

16. DIY Gold Foil Notebooks: For the ever-inquisitive Scorpio, a notebook or two where they can jot down their notes will always come in handy. The cheeky gold foil words are ones they’re sure to appreciate. (via Lovely Indeed)

Sagittarius

17. DIY Painted Citrus Slice Keychain: Channel your cheery Sagittarius personality with this bright yellow citrus slice keychain. Hang from your purse, pencil case or backpack for an instant pick-me-up accessory. (via Dream Green DIY)

18. DIY Quote Banner: As someone who tries to always look on the brighter side of things, this optimistic quote banner is one you’ll want to make. Its vibrant pop of color will brighten up your space. (via Fall For DIY)

Capricorn

19. DIY Back to School Desk Organizer: Known as the most determined of the entire zodiac, Capricorns are in it to win it no matter what they do. Set yourself up for success with this pretty and practical desk organizer. (via Lovely Indeed)

20. DIY Alphabet Makeup Bag: For Capricorns who love their makeup, this alphabet makeup bag will help keep their goodies in order. Try the technique on canvas pencil cases or totes, so you can personalize every aspect of your life. (via Burkatron)

Aquarius

21. DIY IKEA Hack Grid Moodboard: Recognized for their ultra-modern and minimalist style, Aquarius signs are all about monochromatic hues with pops of blue and metallic shades. Avoid your zodiac’s pet peeve for desktop clutter with this simple grid moodboard. (via The Beauty Dojo)

22. DIY Vinyl Letter Notebooks: Simple never looked this chic. Stick to a black and white palette for a truly minimalist set of notebooks any Aquarius can appreciate. (via The Beauty Dojo)

Pisces

23. DIY Ice Dye Pillows: Pisces’ intrinsic love of water makes them fond of all things oceanic. Cater to your love of the deep blue with these gorgeous dyed pillows that embody your favorite place in the world. (via Dans le Lakehouse)

24. DIY Ombre Votive Candles: Stylish Pisces have an eye for items they know will upgrade their space. Take this beautiful ombre candle — it’ll both spruce up your home while adding to its cozy factor. (via Lines Across)

Which of these zodiac-inspired DIYs will you make? Check us out on Pinterest for more creative ideas and inspo!

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!