When is a fashion show not just a fashion show? Indeed, the front-row stars are as much an attention-grabbing part of the shows as the shows themselves. In a world of fashion micro-trends, that may be the biggest trend of all. This was especially true this season, as the shows of the five big heritage French brands — Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Dior and Balenciaga — served as de facto calling cards for the Paris Olympics, which is being touted as the most “fashion” Olympics ever. It is no coincidence that two of those brands, Louis Vuitton and Dior, are owned by LVMH, which is a top-line sponsor of the Olympics.

---

Persons: — Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Dior, Balenciaga —, Bernard Arnault, Balenciaga Organizations: Paris Olympics, Dior, LVMH, Hermès Locations: China, France