The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral was a solemn celebration of cultural and spiritual renewal. Yet for some, its revival also felt like a meticulously choreographed branding event by LVMH and other luxury conglomerates. Bernard Arnault, the lowkey billionaire behind luxury powerhouse LVMH and a key Notre Dame donor who regularly tops the list of the world’s richest men, was at the center of the historic celebration. He was surrounded by his family, the French president, the archbishop and clergy, and the unmistakable symbols of his luxury empire’s influence, including its brands Louis Vuitton and Dior. France's first lady Brigitte Macron held a conspicuous Lady Dior handbag.
