Welcome to the astrology mood board series where I explore all 36 combinations of ascendant and midheaven signs in effort to diversify the way we look at each sign. Aka, this is your cheatsheet towards building a cosmically-influenced aesthetic that’s not giving basic bitch energy. Trying to work outside of tropes.

Cap-daddies this one is for you. I feel like out of all 12 signs, Capricorn is one of the most reduced and misunderstood. So, if you’re tired of the coffee cup wielding, ‘girl boss’ corporate aesthetic then look no further!

The balance between aesthetically pleasing (Libra’s primary focus) and practical (Capricorn’s mission) is always at play for a brand that has this signature Rising/Midheaven combination. Both Libra and Capricorn find mutuality through their cardinal modality as well as favoritism of Saturn, where Cap feels at home and Libra is exalted. It manages to be beautiful without being ‘extra’ and refined without becoming plain.

*Lobby of the TWA Hotel, formerly the TWA Flight Center (Photo:* ***Max Harlynking***)

Where Beauty and Purpose Meet

Thinking about the essence of Libra and Capricorn energies, my mind immediately went to Mid Century Modern (MCM). Popular from 1930-1970’s, this design style was focused first and foremost on functionality which was in stark contrast to the highly decorative Art Nouveau and bold Art Deco periods that preceded it. Sleek, fluid and practical was the focus of MCM, but yet it doesn’t sacrifice beauty.

MCM design has a lot of subcategories, but I was particularly drawn to the work of Finnish designer Eero Saarinen. You might recognize his iconic tulip chairs, but his design of the TWA Flight Center (now hotel) was my biggest inspiration by far. Just one look and I was like “This is so Cap/Libra”. With it’s sweeping neutral interior spiked with pops of red, this building borders on futurism even though it’s a defining style of a past era (very Saturnian).

Other style inspirations can be found in the 60’s London mod look, largely driven by Mary Quant. Structured a-line shift dresses, bold bangs and loud geometric patterns were highly popular. Again, finding meeting place between structure and beauty.

How to use this mood board

If your business has this signature rising/midheaven pairing, your overall visual identity should lean into these sleek, mid century vibes.

Color Palette

When choosing a color palette consider utilizing mostly neutrals with a bold pop of color or a monochromatic look. Since this look largely leans into one color family at a time be mindful about which one you’re choosing and consider color theory. For example, if your brand is focused on relaxation and healing, choosing orange or bright colors wouldn’t be the best choice since they hold more energy than a calming blue or green.

Design

Looking at graphics, packaging or designing your website, focus on being uncluttered with lots of negative space. Design a simple layout that prioritizes practicality over lots of embellishments.

Fonts

For logo and font choices, play with subtle friction by pairing fluid script fonts with ones that are sans serif with more weight. In this mood board I chose two that were popular during the MCM period. Futura really pulls on the bold and blockiness that Saturn influences while the script font feels inherently Venusian (Libra’s home ruler.)

Archetypes

Brand archetypes that I think fit well with this aesthetic are the Ruler and Creator. The polished, button up looks speaks to the authority of the ruler while the nod to futurism is very much in line with innovation which the Creator upholds.