Although Paul & Shark (founded in 1977) has had a presence in the city previously, this 2,200-square-foot emporium is the company's Big Apple flagship, and the corporation's largest store to date. (Paul & Shark already has 250 stores located in 60 countries around the world.) The Italian luxury-goods firm (which started nearly 100 years ago, and was originally solely a knitwear firm) behind the brand is crafting the shop as only those Italians do it -- with the most sumptuous and sensual of materials, a suitable match to the handsome merchandise mix within. Rich wenge wood, with its coppery and chestnut hues, and raw stone tiles in earthy tones elegantly trick out the fixtures, floor, and walls. A dramatic glass staircase transports shoppers up to the second floor where a wall of glass allows customers to peer down to the first floor. The casual merchandise, mostly sportswear, ranges from the preppy-with-a-twist to highly stylized European looks. This shop will also offer an expanded women's salon. Prices range from about $200 to $250 for sport shirts; $300 to $600 for knitwear; and $900 to $1,600 for outerwear and luxury goods. -- Ruth J. Katz