States of Undress

Style-minded fragrances, for day to nighty night

"Five drops of Chanel No. 5." That was Marilyn Monroe's answer, in 1952, when asked what she wore to bed. "I didn't want to say nude," she demurred, "but it's the truth." The actor was a noted fan of the perfume, now celebrating its centennial; subsequent faces have included Catherine Deneuve, Nicole Kidman, and Marion Cotillard. This fall's fashion-led scents have similar allure. Jasmine and vanilla warm up the new Mugler; Burberry Hero melds cedar and bergamot. Chloe veers sustainable with the rose-tinged Eau de Parfum Naturelle, Gucci's latest is heady with gardenia, and Miss Dior marries powdery florals and musky sandalwood. All have stars attached—but we dare not ask whether they follow Monroe's bedtime example.

Laura Regensdorf

FOR DETAILS, GO TO VF.COM/CREDITS.