BV will be cheaper in Italy - and the same goes for all the Italian design brands, Prada, Gucci, Tods, et al. Also bear in mind that the shopper is a classic BV design so if you don't get it this year there's always the next...sometimes things are sweeter if you have to wait for them .. the thrill is in the chase!
The Birkin has not arrived in store yet but I was told it could appear as early as the end of the month..I don't mind a little wait though to spread out my shopping high...
P.S. re. sales you guys might be interested to know that French Connection online - the classily named fcukbuymail.com - started yesterday.