While we spend much of our lives defining ourselves by our sun sign (that whole, “sorry I’m late, I’m an Aquarius” yarn), it’s your rising sign that people usually deal with. Not only that, but, according to Dana DeFranco, an astrologer and co-host of the podcast Allegedly Astrology, your rising sign can also describe your most attractive traits and even your physical appearance.

With your rising sign being what emerges through first impressions, I don’t blame you for wondering about the most attractive rising traits—especially since you only get one chance at them. Before we get into the crux of the allure of each ascendant sign, though, a primer on what a rising sign is.

What is a rising sign?

Logistically, your rising sign refers to the zodiac sign that was “rising” over the eastern horizon when you were born. Also called your ascendant, your rising sign is the public-facing visage you present to the world. It’s how people perceive you, particularly before they get to know your true self (ahem, moon sign).

“Just as the sun dawns every morning in the eastern sky, your rising sign shows how you ‘dawn’ at any given moment.”—Ryan Marquardt, astrologer

To that end, the aura of your rising sign is what initially draws people in. “Just as the sun dawns every morning in the eastern sky, your rising sign shows how you ‘dawn’ at any given moment,” says astrologer Ryan Marquardt. “It’s how you show up to the world and give a first impression before anyone has the chance to come to know all the intricacies that make up who you are in full.”

Is your rising sign who you truly are?

Short answer, no, your rising sign isn’t who you truly are. “The rising sign governs our initial expressions and impulses in our daily interactions,” explains Marquardt. If you aren’t someone who’s good at first impressions, this is a good thing! Astrologically, the scope of your individuality doesn’t hinge on a single sign alone, but a blend of planetary influences.

“The rising sign governs our initial expressions and impulses in our daily interactions.”—Ryan Marquardt, astrologer

The most relied-upon signs that most astrologers use to paint the full picture of who you are are your “big three” signs, aka your sun, moon, and ascendant signs. These three signs work together to create a profile of your outward personality (sun sign, your emotional temperament (moon sign), and how you generate your energy and show up in the world (rising sign).

If we were to classify a single astrological placement that embodies who you are at your most authentic, though, it would likely be your moon sign, since it’s the place where you are at your most comfortable and stable. “The moon reflects our inner world, emotional needs, and the subconscious patterns that underlie the choices we make every day,” explains Marquardt. But again, understanding the full picture involves considering how pieces of the sun and rising signs fit the other part of the puzzle.

How to find your rising sign

We’re all capable of very charming first impressions, but let’s make sure we have the right information first. If you’re not deeply acquainted with your chart, hop over to an online generator like this one and figure out what your rising is. Note that you’ll need to plug in your birthday, time, and where you were born. Then, scroll down to find out exactly why people find you so lovable.

Keep in mind that your rising sign is only one factor of your chart that influences physical appearance. DeFranco says other elements such as the ruling planet of your rising sign, what sign the ruling planet is in, and the aspect to the ruling planet also play a role. So if your appearance doesn’t 100 percent match the description, this is why.

Which is the most attractive rising sign?

While attractiveness is subjective—what one person finds magnetic another may not—for funsies, we asked DeFranco if she had to pick the most attractive rising sign, which would it be. “With Venus as the planet of love and attraction, Taurus or Libra would technically be the most attractive rising signs,” she says. “Venus also rules makeup and adornment, so these signs are likely to put an effort into their appearance in order to attract others.” But again, everyone’s preferences are different, and as you can see above, each rising sign has unique traits that make them enticing.

Hard to compete with Venusian traits, which cover all things beautiful, artistic, and romantic. Even if your rising sign isn’t a Libra or Taurus, there’s still something alluring about every ascendant. Below, read about your most attractive rising trait.

The Most Attractive Rising Sign Traits

Aries Rising

There’s nothing more sexy about Aries risings than their daring confidence, which they wear proudly in every situation they find themselves in. Not only does their brazen authenticity make them stand out in the crowd, but it’s also inspiring to those who watch in awe—what’s more attractive than that? “They have a fearless spirit and willingness to forge ahead, even in the most challenging of circumstances, which is a captivating sign to behold,” explains Marquardt.

Speaking on their physical appearance, DeFranco notes that because Aries is associated with the head, Aries rising may have an attractive head shape and memorable faces.

In terms of least attractive traits, DeFranco notes Aries rising can be domineering, and bossy, plus their determination to get results may result in not considering the feelings and desires of others.

Taurus Rising

Imagine Taurus rising as the perfect hostess of an intimate cocktail party. They’ll invite you into their luxe-looking home, serve you a cocktail in crystal barware, and have a cranberry walnut baked brie at the ready. “You have a way of making people feel comfortable and well taken care of,” says Alexandria Lettman, resident astrologer for The SoulUnity. “People are drawn to your dedication and dependability, and stick around for your hidden complexities and inner mystery.”

Physically, DeFranco says Taurus rising can have a long, toned neck with smooth skin that others find attractive, and looks great adorned with necklaces.

When it comes to less-alluring traits, however, some may find Taurus rising’s focus on spending money and acquiring material goods unattractive.

Gemini Rising

There’s something about the way a Gemini rising can charm people—often without even trying! From their colloquialisms to curiosity, it’s hard not to become enchanted by their conversation. “They know how to navigate virtually any conversation or situation with a signature blend of intellect and humor, which makes them endlessly intriguing and magnetic to be around,” explains Marquardt.

Physically speaking, DeFranco adds that toned arms and well-manicured hands tend to be a Gemini rising’s most attractive physical trait.

On the other hand, DeFranco says Gemini rising’s least attractive trait is that they are notoriously commitment-phobic. “When they finally do get into relationships they may resent their partners for limiting their freedom,” she says.

Cancer Rising

Cancer risings find it effortless to open up their heart to someone, and that allows others the rare opportunity to be truly vulnerable. “You have a natural ability to sympathize with and hold space for others which makes people feel safe with you,” says Lettman. “People value your advice and are drawn to your caring, responsible, and intuitive nature.”

Others may also be drawn to a Cancer rising’s best physical attribute: the décolletage area (i.e., attractive breasts or well-defined pecs). “Cancer is associated with the chest,” DeFranco says.

Because Cancer is also associated with the moon (aka the celestial body of emotions), DeFranco adds that Cancer rising can also be a bit moody, passive-aggressive, and unpredictable—all traits that can be turn-offs.

Leo Rising

Leo rising is all about carrying a star presence. When you walk into a room, it’s all eyes on you. At first glance, it’s because of your inner confidence, and upon double-take, it’s about your willingness to share the wealth. “You have a natural ability to command attention, even when it’s unwanted, and people are drawn to you because you are a shining beacon of light,” says Lettman. “Your generosity and pride are what make you so charming.”

As for physical attractiveness, Leo is associated with the back and spine, so look for toned backs and notable shoulder blades, DeFranco says. And, she adds, Leos are also known for their enviable, voluminous manes.

While Leo rising can be all sorts of sparkly, the flip side is that their artist and performer archetype can also make them kind of annoying sometimes. “It’s not that they need to be the center of attention all the time, but if they receive an invitation to go somewhere and they know they won’t receive the attention they want or from the person they want, they’re absolutely declining the invitation,” DeFranco says. “I believe the word for this is neediness.”

Virgo Rising

Virgo has a covert “healer” reputation, partially due to its co-ruler, Chiron, the wounded healer. While the sign is known for their perfectionism, that need (and skill) to fix any problem is actually wildly impressive, when you get down to it. “There is far more to you than what meets the eye and when people get to know you, they get to see how big and open your heart really is,” Lettman says. “At the surface level, people are drawn to your reliable, sociable, and trustworthy nature.”

Despite their genuine, good intentions, DeFranco says Virgo rising can be critical of others, which can hurt people’s feelings, making them not-so-attractive in those moments.

Physically, DeFranco says Virgo risings may have attractive stomachs.

Libra Rising 

Ah, Libra, with Venus orbiting as your ruling planet—how can we narrow down your most attractive trait? Well, according to Marquardt, your congeniality strikes the most alluring. “Libra risings emit a universal appeal. They are friendly in social situations and know how to create a sense of harmony wherever they go without trying too hard,” says Marquardt. There’s something especially attractive about someone who can balance all of life’s whims and obstacles.

And, given that Libra rules the hips and pelvic region, DeFranco adds that Libra risings may have great-looking hips, waists, and butts.

Although Libra is all about balance and harmony, they can struggle with asserting themselves and their needs, which can be unappealing. “Failure to assert themselves not only leaves them without enough, it also prevents them from being vulnerable with others, blocking themselves from that interpersonal intimacy they truly want,” DeFranco says.

Scorpio Rising

Scorpio rising comes across as alluring and almost feline when it comes to other people. You might only catch glimpses of them throughout the night… but you’ll always be on the lookout for them. “You’re great at giving away enough of yourself to entice people and draw them in, yet not enough to still keep up your mysterious persona,” says Lettman. “People are attracted to your depth, passion, and accurate, intuitive judgments.”

As for their least attractive trait, DeFranco says it can be tricky to pinpoint because they’re so secretive, which can make it challenging to really get to know them. And, it may also make their loved ones worried about what they’re up to.

As for physical looks, Scorpio is associated with the genital region—so, you can use your imagination for this one. “Their stunning gaze matches the fire in their loins,” says DeFranco.

Sagittarius Rising

Sagittarius rising just wants you to chill, and we all need that friend, especially in a time like this. They’re surrounded by happy-go-lucky energy that can disarm anyone high-strung. “It’s your effortlessly expansive outlook and optimism that draws others to you,” Lettman says. “Your zeal and love for life are enchanting, and you have a natural ability to help people forget about their worries when they’re around you.”

A Sag rising’s most attractive physical trait, though, is the buttocks. “Sagittarius risings might have ample, toned butts,” DeFranco says.

DeFranco says Sagittarius also has a reputation for being honest but sometimes they can be a little too honest, which can hurt others.

Capricorn Rising

To wit, Capricorn Rising looks like they have their sh*t together. People are literally in awe of how you’re the CEO of your own life (and maybe even everyone else’s). “Your responsible, ambitious and mature nature makes you come across as well put-together, and prepared for anything,” says Lettman. “People are naturally attracted to you because you motivate others to hold themselves to high standards as well.”

What makes a Capricorn rising physically attractive is their bone structure and good-looking set of teeth, DeFranco adds.

However, a Capricorn rising’s tendency to work hard can lead to overworking, making them irritable, inaccessible, or emotionally unavailable, DeFranco says. They can also be pessimistic at times.

Aquarius Rising

There’s something about the lack of desire to fit in that draws people to an Aquarius rising. They love to challenge normalcy and inspire hopeful change in the world and those around them, which makes sense that Marquardt notes their unconventional attitude is their most revered trait. “Aquarius risings possess an eccentric brilliance that sets them apart from the crowd,” he explains. “Even though they can be highly collaborative, they tend to operate to the beat of their own drum, inventing new approaches, concepts, strategies and ways of living as they move through life.”

One trait that makes Aquarius rising unattractive is their tendency to judge themselves in comparison to their peers, DeFranco says.

Physically, their long, toned legs are their most attractive feature.

Pisces Rising 

Finally, people love Pisces rising because you show a particularly sensitive, gentle nature. They see you as an ethereal, precious being. “Your glowing outlook on life, imagination, and forgiving nature make everyone around you feel at ease,” says Lettman. “People are drawn to you because of your compassion, helpfulness, and ability to brighten anyone’s mood.”

Their least attractive trait: “Pisces risings can have a tendency to blame others for the choices they’ve made or, worse yet, deny having made those choices at all,” DeFranco says.

And their most captivating physical trait is likely attractive, well-manicured feet.