Personally, I've never gotten caught up in all of the cuffing season hype. At least, not officially. The reason why I feel like I should clarify that point is because there is a past sex partner/jump off/homie-lover-friend—whatever you want to call him, who used to tell me that our bodies are automatically set on a "sex memory clock". Meaning, when it comes to the people who are a part of our intimacy's past, oftentimes they come to mind (or we might even have a craving for them) around the same time of year that we first met them and/or hooked up with them.
It's ironic that when it comes to the guy who said this, we started (cough, cough) hanging out during the month of October. And, for a few years following, every time ole' faithful October rolled around, we'd find ourselves, umm, "hanging out" again. Only in October. Until the following autumn.
Well now. Maybe I do—or at least did—participate in cuffing season more than I thought because the overall gist consists of being intentional about finding someone to "boo up" with, just in time for cold weather, office parties and the holiday season. And, as most of us know, all of this officially kicks off in the fall (if you're wondering how long it lasts, it's from October thru March).
Uh-huh. I already know how absolutely thrilled some of y'all are because you've already got someone lined up or you're already prepared to respond to some erroneous DM from an ex—or "ex". Then there are those who are already dreading the very thought of cuffing season and all of the "extra"—extra expectations, extra pressure, potential extra disillusionment and drama—that it brings. If you're someone who clearly falls into Category B, chin up, my friend.
Yes, cuffing season is inevitable, but there are some things that you can do to make it so much more bearable—for you.
Did You Know That Cuffing Season Ain’t Just Game?
While you might think that cuffing season is all about game, last year, Esquire published a pretty thorough article on the fact that there are some physical and psychological reasons behind it. For starters, since our bodies (both men and women) produce more testosterone during the fall, that makes us hornier.
And with the testosterone surging through our bodies at a heightened level, that means we're also producing less serotonin—a natural hormone that helps to make us feel good. I'm pretty sure you can see how that helps to create the perfect avalanche, so to speak.
Then there are the pressures that come with the holiday season—spending money, seeing family and sometimes going through major shifts on our jobs. It's all enough to make anyone want to climb in bed with someone and not come out, at least until after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
The reason why I'm sharing all of this is because if you hate cuffing season because you feel like it is nothing more than media hype or something that some random dude came up with in order to get some (more), maybe what I shared will offer a bit of a different perspective. Believe it or not, there is some merit to cuffing season. Shoot, it's definitely got more backing than Netflix and Chill did.
What Have the Previous Seasons Been Like for You?
I'll be honest. I never really hear couples complain about cuffing season. Nah, they have other things to worry about like if a holiday engagement is going to come up or how to handle family gatherings and professional outings if they're not that serious yet. It's usually us single folks who are perpetually rolling our eyes. If you're doing that right now, even as you're reading this, ask yourself why. Is it because you are always alone during cuffing season? Maybe it's the opposite and you always fall for the lines that brothas send you right around this time of year. Perhaps you got your heart broken over a cuffing season or you feel like it's all about sex over romance.
Maybe it's just me, but I think that the main reason why so many people have an issue with cuffing season is because they feel like it's basically a form of human hunting season. It's not really about making a true connection with another individual so much as it's about using someone in order to get attention and affection. Then, once the warm weather sets in, it's like the relationship—or situationship—never existed.
If that is how you personally feel, I'll admit that I can understand where you are coming from. What I'll also say is you are able to control this year having that kind of outcome. Think about it. If over the next few weeks, you hear from a guy who you pretty much only do during cuffing season, you already know what the deal is, right? If you oblige him, you're agreeing to participating in the pattern. Or, you can ignore his calls and block his emails. It's totally up to you.
I think one of the reasons why a lot of people abhor cuffing season is because they treat it like bad weather. They believe that just because the forecast speaks of it arriving that there is nothing that they can do to avoid it. But the reality is that cuffing season only truly affects you—or "infects" you—if you allow it to.
In other words, if you want no parts of it, leave it alone. Focus on other things. You see what our country is going through right now. There are plenty other ways to distract yourself if you really and truly want to.
Who Says That This Year Has to Be Like All the Rest?
Some women have told me that the reason why they dislike—OK, hate—cuffing season is because it feels like that is the time of year when they are the most alone. Their friends are with someone. Their co-workers are in relationships. If it wasn't for the sweet-yet-totally-cheesy Hallmark movies that run incessantly throughout the holiday season, they wouldn't have an inch of romance in their life.
I get this too. But I still think that some of this is a bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you loathe cuffing season because you're already predicting how lonely, boring or predictable it's going to be…again, to a large extent, that is totally under your control. Why not host a holiday party at your house? How about asking a guy who you're interested in to one of your office events? Take a road trip with a girlfriend or guy friend. Treat yourself to an off day and then pamper yourself all day. Or do all of the above—more than once.
It's been years since I've been in a relationship. Although singledom has its moments, for the most part, I'm not bothered in the least that I'm not with anyone, though. Mostly it's because I'm too preoccupied with other stuff to give it too much thought. I'm not looking to get "cuffed". It's a ring or no-thing. It's my choice and I'm totally at peace with my decision.
You're human. Therefore, it's OK to want a boo thang during cuffing season or any other time of year. But sitting in the house moping about it while you're listening to Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas" isn't going to do you much good. Rather than surrendering to the feelings of loneliness, how about making the most of this cuffing season is making it work in your favor? This brings me to my final point.
Why Not “Brand” Your Own Season?
It's not just cuffing season. It's also the fall season. Soon it will be the winter season. The holiday season is approaching too. My point? Other stuff is going on other than the tried-and-true cuffing season. So, why not make this the first year that you brand October-March as something else? It could be "start a business" season, "finish my book season" or "complete my website" season. Then, in honor of whatever goal that you set, you can treat yourself to something special. A personalized cuff bracelet, perhaps? (Etsy has tons of 'em!) That way, whenever you think about cuffing season, it can be connected to achieving goals rather than hooking up with some dude.
And just like that, cuffing season has new meaning and purpose. You just might go from hating it to actually celebrating it (imagine that!). All because you took the focus off of getting—or not getting— with someone and put it onto your own glow up instead. Happy Cuffing Season, girl!
Want more stories like this? Sign up for our newsletter here and check out the related reads below:
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Featured image by Shutterstock
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Your November 2025 Monthly Horoscopes: An Overview
The passion is high this month, as we have Mars moving into Sagittarius on November 4 and remaining there until December 15. Mars in Sagittarius is adventurous, forthcoming, and empowered. This is the perfect energy we need to get through the month's retrogrades, as Mars will guide us towards what is the highest good. The following day, we have a Supermoon in Taurus, and love comes full circle. A Supermoon in Taurus is all about gaining clarity within financial matters and relationship developments. This Supermoon brings an awareness of what you need to feel more secure, grounded, and safe in the present moment.
Venus, the planet of love, enters Scorpio on November 6 until the end of the month, and Venus in Scorpio is powerful. This brings an intensity to love, but it is also a good time for intimacy, commitment, and getting some more alone time with a partner. Uranus Retrograde moves into Taurus on November 7 and will be Retrograde here until February 3, 2026. Uranus, during this time, will provide more revelations into matters you have been looking to stabilize and find your ground in since 2018. This transit gives a final opportunity to regenerate new ideas, efforts, and intentions.
The final Mercury retrograde of the year occurs this month, and it begins in Sagittarius on November 9, moves into Scorpio on November 18, and goes direct on November 29.
While in Sagittarius, Mercury retrograde asks to be more patient with travel plans, new adventures, and communicating before you have all of the facts. While in Scorpio, Mercury retrograde will highlight what transformations are needed within relationship dynamics, and what path forward will help you gain your empowerment and inner clarity here. Jupiter also goes retrograde this month and will be retrograde in Cancer until March 10, 2026. Jupiter retrograde in Cancer brings emotions to the surface, and everything can seem a little more overwhelming than it actually is in this energy.
Overall, this transit occurs to guide you through new emotional regulation tools and show you what dreams can come true when you take some time to reflect.
The New Moon of the month occurs on November 20 in Scorpio, and this is a New Moon of manifestation. This New Moon provides the new beginning you have been looking for, and something is inspiring about what presents itself during this time. The following day, the Sun moves into Sagittarius, and Sagittarius Season officially begins. Sag Season is the upliftment we need after a month of closure, clarity, and transformation, and there is a lot to look forward to as we end the month. On November 27, Saturn goes direct in Pisces after being retrograde since July, and with this powerful force now direct, what you have been building and rebuilding through the heart since 2023 comes to fruition in a more grounded and long-term way.
Overall, November is a big game-changer, and what is being brought to the surface is changing things for time to come.
Read for your sun and rising sign below to see what November 2025 has in store for you.
Your November 2025 Monthly Horoscopes For Every Zodiac Sign
ARIES
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is about finding your balance, Aries. A lot of things are in motion for you right now, but you may not be seeing eye to eye with some of the people around you in the midst of it all. Your guidance for the month is to choose your battles wisely and to think more about what will benefit you long-term. Mars enters your 9th house of adventure this month, and you are feeling fierce, inspired, and ready.
The Mercury retrograde of the month inspires you to open your mind to what else is possible for you in life, and gives you the clarity needed to make the necessary changes to be in the place you want to be. Before the month ends, we have a New Moon in your 8th house of rebirth, signifying the deep changes you are moving through this month.
As November closes out, remember to set your intentions for where you want to feel the passion, commitment, and depth in your world, and what ideas or perceptions you may need to let go of to see your own truth a little clearer.
TAURUS
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is all about taking more time for yourself, Taurus. You are in a contemplative mood this month and are seeking more alone time for healing, clarity, and emotional rejuvenation. This month, we have a Supermoon in Taurus on November 5, and this Supermoon is bringing your goals, intentions, and path ahead to the surface. This is the time to let go of what doesn’t resonate with your soul and to pay attention to your inner guidance system and the signs you are receiving in your life right now.
Venus moves into your 7th house of love this month, and love is here for you to thrive and grow in.
Relationship matters feel more promising in this energy, and you are a magnet for love, reciprocity, and romance. Uranus retrograde also moves back into your sign on November 7 for its final transit through Taurus. Until February of next year, you will be reevaluating plans and intentions, and learning more about yourself and what you need to feel both inspired and grounded in life.
With a lot of energy in your 1st house of self and 7th house of love, November is all about finding the balance between what you need and what your relationships are asking of you.
GEMINI
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is a month of growth, Gemini. You enter the month with the Sun, Mercury, and Mars in your relationship zone, and you are motivated to connect, move forward, and own what you need in love. This is a beautiful month of being met with the love you are giving out, and feeling like you are supported in life. Your wisdom is growing, your inner clarity is shining, and there is something beautiful about the space you find yourself in this month.
Uranus retrograde enters your house of closure on November 7, moving out of your sign and giving you a chance at healing. This is your opportunity to close the door to a chapter in your life that felt more restrictive than freeing, and to develop the insight needed to move on from negative energy for good. Your ruling planet, Mercury, also goes retrograde this month, and will be guiding your heart towards what people, relationships, and experiences light up your life and make you feel loved and seen.
Overall, November is a big month for owning the wisdom you have found in life and in love.
CANCER
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is about trusting your instincts and listening to the guidance of your soul, Cancer. You are naturally a very intuitive being, and November is requiring you to use this strength for your benefit. As you enter the month, there is a Supermoon in your 11th house of friendship, community, and dreams, and manifestations appear that you have been looking forward to.
The patience you’ve had in your life shows fruition for you now, and you are recognizing that you’ve had the right idea all along.
Jupiter, the planet of good luck and expansion, entered your sign earlier this year and goes retrograde this month from November 11 until March 2026. What this means for you and your life is that you will be discovering spiritual guidance in new, unexpected places. You may feel like life moves a little more slowly under this energy, but this is needed in order for you to truly understand where an expansion and new perspective are needed in your world.
Before the month ends, there is a New Moon in a fellow water sign, and your heart gets a chance at a new beginning.
LEO
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is a month of progress, Leo. You are thinking a lot about the future right now and what’s ahead of you, and are making the necessary plans to bring your dreams to fruition. With a Supermoon in your 10th house of career, goals, and reputation as you begin the month, you are really showing up and allowing yourself to be met with success. You are inspired by what is possible for you in life in November and are making the efforts necessary to meet your goals halfway.
Mid-month, Jupiter goes retrograde in Cancer, and what this means for you is a need to take a step back and focus on your healing. When Jupiter entered Cancer earlier this year, you saw a lot of the gifts that have come from closure and emotional renewal, and with this planet now retrograde, you are getting more into the nitty-gritty of healing and what tough decisions you may need to make to do so.
On November 20, we have a New Moon in your 4th house of family and foundations, and you are getting the opportunity to rebuild, connect with loved ones, and feel more secure in the present moment.
VIRGO
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is all about finding your balance between moving forward when you feel ready to and taking the necessary time to plan your next steps ahead, Virgo. With a Supermoon in a fellow earth sign to begin the month, there is a lot to look forward to right now, and you are feeling inspired by what is presenting itself. You are moving through November with confidence and conviction, and your eyes are opening to what spaces you want to be in and what people you want to meet along the way.
Your ruling planet, Mercury, goes retrograde this month, and it’s all about taking time within communication matters and new developments in the home.
Ask yourself what stability, safety, and clarity mean to you right now, and be prepared to let go and create the necessary space in your life to receive that. At the end of the month, we have a New Moon in your 3rd house of communication, and this New Moon highlights your communication strengths and interests, and also brings some new people and experiences into your life.
Overall, although we have a lot of retrogrades this month, you are not letting them stop you and are overcoming and moving forward in November.
LIBRA
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is your month of abundance, Libra. Venus, your ruling planet, is in your 2nd house of income, values, and self-worth, and you are owning who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you deserve in your life. This is a month of seeing your intentions come to fruition, and progress is made regarding your finances and the plans you have set for yourself here this year. This is your month of owning your efforts and intentions, and knowing you deserve the good that is presenting itself to you right now.
With a Supermoon taking place in your 8th house this month, which rules your shared finances, support is coming in for you, and you have a lot of opportunities to make new gains and to see the gifts of some of the relationships and commitments in your world. Before the month ends, there is a New Moon in your 2nd house of income, and it’s the time to create new intentions for yourself here, and you can do so with some added strength and confidence by what has already come to fruition or you this month.
Positive changes are in store for you, and you have the Midas Touch in November.
SCORPIO
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleScorpio Season is here, and you are shining, Scorpio. November is a month of feeling balanced, loved, and abundant, and like you are in the perfect position to find gratitude and own what blessings are ahead of you. We have a Supermoon in your sister sign to begin the month, providing you with the insight needed to see the love in your life with more clarity, and to gain some closure within relationship dynamics that have felt confusing for you as of late.
Venus also enters your sign at the beginning of the month, even further amplifying the energy of love in your life and the sense that you are truly recognizing how loved you are.
Mercury retrograde enters your sign on November 18, and you may need to redirect more of your energy within. Use this opportunity to gain more guidance on yourself, your path, and your goals, and remember to give yourself a little more compassion during this time. Before the month closes out, we have a New Moon in Scorpio on November 20, and this is a powerful time for seeing your manifestations appear. A New Moon in Scorpio is enlightening, and you are owning your passions, your self-confidence in life, and what new doors are opening for you now.
SAGITTARIUS
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is all about owning your power and not counting yourself out, Sagittarius. This month is about lifting your head and remembering who you are and what matters to you in life. Mars enters your sign as we begin the month, and this is powerful energy for direction, new beginnings, and inspiration, but you may also be feeling some combative energy in your life in the midst of it all.
With Mercury also going retrograde in your sign for a little over a week, be careful with getting ahead of yourself right now, and take your time with things by knowing that you are supported and your dreams are coming to fruition in due time.
Sagittarius Season officially begins on November 21, and you feel more of the strength in your life as you close out the month. With Venus also moving into Sagittarius on November 30, a lot of the self-doubts you were having at the beginning of the month are long behind you now, and you finally get to see more of the progress you have been making in your world.
Overall, this month is about balancing patience with conviction and knowing that what is meant for you will not pass you by.
CAPRICORN
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleYou are making strides this month, Capricorn. November is a month of victory, progress, and achievement, and you are owning what you have been building in your world. You begin the month with a Supermoon in your 11th house of hopes and dreams, and this is a beautiful time for seeing your intentions appear and things looking even better than you had expected them to. The universe really wants to show you how loved and cherished you are this month, and will be giving you plenty of signs to show that to you.
Jupiter goes retrograde in your opposite sign mid-month until February of next year, and during this time, you will be able to revitalize some of your close partnerships and gain more clarity on what you need to feel more safe and inspired here. You may feel like some relationship dynamics are more up in the air than you are used to, but this is necessary for you to really see what and who you want to commit to long-term.
Before the month ends, your ruling planet, Saturn, goes direct in your 3rd house of communication after being retrograde since July, and you are taking a deep breath, getting the answers you have been looking for, and finding your peace this month.
AQUARIUS
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleNovember is a new beginning for you, Aquarius. You are setting new intentions and focusing a lot on your career and financial world this month. The month begins with a Supermoon in your 10th house of career, and you are seeing the fruition of some of the developments you have made in this area of your life over the past month. A lot of opportunities are coming to the surface for you, and you deserve to feel abundance, support, and clarity in the world.
This month is about owning who you are, your gifts, and what efforts you have made to live the life of your dreams.
Mid-month, Jupiter goes retrograde in an area of your life that rules your daily routine and working environment, and you are making a lot of changes in your world. Your career and work-life get a revamp this month and for the rest of the year in general, and this is happening so that you can increase your earnings while also feeling better about what you are doing daily. As we end November, Saturn goes direct in your 2nd house of income and earnings after being retrograde since July, which is even further increasing the abundance in your world.
Overall, you are claiming your successes and doing what is necessary to feel good within.
PISCES
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecoleDreams come true and miracles are possible for you this month, Pisces. November is about opening your mind to everything you can experience in your world, and about being a magnet for your desires by being open to it all. Venus is in your house of inspiration, adventure, and travel this month, and you are meeting love in unexpected places. You are feeling more of the magic in your world in November overall and are being met with the beauty you create around you.
Jupiter goes retrograde in your 5th house of romance mid-month, allowing you to gain more clarity in matters of the heart and to reveal what joy means to you and what and who you want around you to feel more stable happiness and less shake-ups in your world. Saturn goes direct in Pisces on November 27, before the month ends, and this is really a ground-breaking moment for you.
With Saturn now direct and in Pisces until February 2026, you are following your dreams, laying down new foundations in your life, and feeling like things are finally lining up for you.
November is about owning the magic you create in your world, Pisces.
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