Save yourself waiting-list angst

is this a new shopping trend I see on the horizon? Last week, Bottega Veneta previewed its autumn collection to the public; now Hermès is doing the same.

Anyone wanting to feast their eyes on Jean Paul Gaultier's first collection for the house (three months before it goes in store, note) simply needs to bowl down to 179 Sloane Street, SW1 (18-19 May), or 155 New Bond Street (20-21, enquiries 020 7259 3846) where the goodies will be on show. The idea is that customers can preorder any items that take their fancy, thus ensuring that they won't be stuck in waiting-list hell come September.

A very sensible idea - and a great way for luxury goods houses to gauge demand for their oh-so-expensive products, most of which take months of intense workmanship to complete.

Gaultier's Hermès show was one of the highlights of Paris fashion week back in March (these patent shoes, pictured, are top of my wish list for next season). Is Hermés the new Lanvin? Be prepared for a stiff Amex bill next month.