To borrow the words of astrologer Jules Ferrari, a Leo's star shines brightest when they operate from the seat of their own authenticity." Governed by the sun, Leos are expressive, bold, and just a smidge sensitive – especially when they're in command.

And while these stereotypes ring true broadly, if you've ever noticed distinct differences from on Leo to the next, it could be the result of exactly when, during Leo season, they were born. The sun sign is elected to anyone born between July 23rd to August 22nd — a relatively broad window that can give rise to many distinct differences, from communication styles to relationship preferences.

It all comes down to the idea of decans. The Sun travels about one degree per day during each month of the zodiac. There are roughly 10 degrees in every decan, meaning there are around three decans in each 30-day zodiac sign. By this logic, all July Leos are born in the first decan,  while most Leos born in August fall into the second or third decan. Complicating things further, each  decan is ruled by a different planet, adding extra depth and nuance to how that sign shows up in someone’s personality.

No idea what any of it means? Fear not. We've got you covered on the differences and similarities for a July Leo and August Leo below.

Traits of July Leos

I guess it pays off to be a little closer to the Cancer season. July Leos are tempered by a sense of fairness and justice. Purely ruled by the Sun, they are quick to express their creativity in spurts, and are driven largely by passion. July Leos are also partial to art and music  — which makes sense, when you consider that the likes of  Madonna and Sandra Bullock (both July Leos) are masters of their craft. They are, as the Sun determines, a stock-regular Leo in any form.

Traits of August Leos

August Leos are where we get a bit of a wild card. Most August Leos have Jupiter and Mars influences in their chart, so these Leos can present as a little more devilish, so to speak. The same spontaneous, trigger-happy streak that runs rampant in our Aries honeys are located in August Leos. August-borns are a little more spontaneous, with a bite for the impulsive when it comes to any action-planning or life-game play. Our very own Greta Gerwig is an excellent example. Who just ups it and makes an entire Barbie movie? An August Leo, that's who.

What is the main difference between July Leo and August Leo?

July Leos have a strong sense of self, leading them to be authoritative figures of justice and fairness within their respective communities. Setting that high benchmark belies an expectation that everyone will follow it, which is where July Leos will stutter to a close when others don't. They also tend to be ardent protectors of their friends and family, and huge on protecting their peace (and craft) from any unwelcome interference. Their creative flair also shines through in their penchant for the fancy, or more indulgent things in life.

Then we've got the second half. August Leos thrive on ambition, setting high goals for themselves. The sense of frustration that arises is philosophical, and self-directed when they fall short of their own goals. They feed off of intelligent pursuit, and most take shape as the natural-born leaders we assume the sign to be. Their incisive approach to their own well-being feeds into a love for public speaking, and even a bold debate. August Leos are lightning in a bottle, and they know how to tell a tale that matters.