Street got its Christmas consignment of the designer's bags and shoes just in time for the sale.

The leather goods were meant to arrive in time for the Christmas shopping spree, but only arrived at the shop last week.

Delays in shipping, Customs and problems with the paperwork had the rich and famous' favourite accessories stuck on the docks for months.

So when they finally arrived, the high-class store were first put on the shelves at 50 percent off.

And yesterday the much sought- after accessories were flying off the shelves with hundreds of customers coming through the door.

Bags in the store go for between $400 and $600 with shoes in the $200 to $400 range. Sun glasses retail around $150 a pair.

Gucci fans packed the store yesterday looking for a bargain. Shoppers, holding several handbags, tried on the delicately-heeled matching shoes.

"It has been hectic, phenomenally hectic,'' said Vandosdelle (Van) Swan, buyer and shop manager at Gucci Bermuda. "We have a few bits left. But it has been like this since last week. Every day there have been hundreds coming through the door during the day.'' The sale will continue to the end of the week, when new stock will go on show and prices will go back to normal.

Despite the crowds, Mr. Swan said it has been great working the sale. "Just to see the look on people's faces, when they say, `wow, I can get a Gucci bag at half price', is great.'' In a single day the shop took 200 receipts, many for multiple purchases.

Tomorrow Mr. Swan, the darling of the Island's fine shoe lovers, is going on holiday to Paris for a well-deserved break.