STYLE maven Tommy Hilfiger makes a visit to Ireland this week to receive an honorary award from Trinity College, and more importantly, at least for his company's bottom line, he'll open up a new Tommy flagship store on Grafton Street in Dublin.

The petite prince of fashion will also travel to Galway during his two day stay in Ireland to greet his well-heeled customers who patronize the Tommy store in Galway City. And deep-pocketed you must be to buy Hilfiger stuff in Ireland, as the mark-up is astounding compared to what we pay here. How'd you like paying nearly $100 for a Tommy shirt? No wonder Irish shoppers come to America by the planeload to buy his stuff, and other American designer gear while they're at it.

''We now have 12 franchised Tommy Hilfiger stores around the country, but this takes the brand to a whole new level in Ireland. We are taking a long-term view and will be investing heavily in marketing the new store," said a spokesperson for the new Dublin place.