More than 800 people stood in line on opening day, when sales surpassed 20 million yen to set an all time record.

The temporary installation will remain in place until November 20, though a permanent counter will eventually replace it.

Since Hedi Slimane's arrival in 2001, the previously sedate men's label has been magically transformed into the hottest ticket in town.

For the moment, the only boutique dedicated exclusively to Dior Homme is located in Milan, though the Avenue Montaigne Dior headquarters, Galleries Lafayette Department Store and popular Colette in Paris offer a wide selection.

Sources have told FW that plans for the long-awaited Paris men's boutique have all but been finalized, and the store will most likely be located in the St. Germain des Prés neighborhood of the Rive Gauche.

Backing up the strong showing, Christian Dior Couture published earnings for the first 9 months of the year registering an impressive 46% increase over 2001.

This brilliant performance during difficult economic times surpassed all expectations, and stands in stark contrast to the red ink flowing throughout much of the luxury industry.

Driving the positive earnings report were strong sales figures at the 138 Dior boutiques worldwide, which were up by 50%.

Traditionally, strongest sales of luxury goods take place during the 4th quarter of the year, a fact that seemingly bodes well for 2002.

The flagship of the LVMH Group, Dior has become the particular darling of French millionaire owner Bernard Arnault.