Venus Retrograde 2026: Love, Money & Values Under Review

Venus stations retrograde on March 2, 2026 at 10° Aries, and stations direct on April 13, 2026 at 24° Pisces. The pre-retrograde shadow begins February 1, and the post-retrograde shadow ends May 15.

Venus begins its backward journey in fiery Aries — the sign of self and independence — then slides back into dreamy Pisces, Venus's sign of exaltation. This creates a narrative arc from assertive self-expression to compassionate surrender in love.

Venus retrograde is infamous for bringing exes back into the picture. This isn't cosmic cruelty — it's an opportunity to review unfinished emotional business. Whether that means closure or reconnection depends on the specific dynamics.

New relationships that begin during Venus retrograde aren't doomed, but they may undergo significant revision after Venus goes direct. Current relationships face a stress test: patterns that have been tolerated but not addressed come to the surface for honest examination.

This transit is not ideal for major beauty changes (haircuts, cosmetic procedures), expensive purchases, or launching beauty-related businesses. These areas are "under review" and your tastes may shift after Venus goes direct.

Venus governs money alongside values. During retrograde, financial decisions benefit from extra scrutiny. Avoid major investments or large purchases unless absolutely necessary. Past financial patterns — spending habits, pricing your work, boundaries around money — come up for review.

This is an excellent time to review subscriptions, audit expenses, and reassess whether your financial life reflects your actual values. Many people discover they've been spending on autopilot in ways that don't align with what truly matters to them.