Hmm... It would seem the little smartass hasn't anything to say of your response, Sanctus; nice work.
I enjoy shopping in HT occasionally, but my chief complaint is the overpricing of every item there. It is sometimes, however, the only place I can get the kind of clothing I'm seeking. Last Saturday I purchased a pair of long, black and white-striped socks there that I'm certain I would have a difficult time finding elsewhere. I couldn't be enjoying them more, by the way; I'm showing them to just about everyone I meet.
Hot Topic is a decent department store. They're just like any other clothing store chain, except that they sell one specific style of clothing. I haven't any grudge against anyone who wears clothing from there, even against someone whose entire wardrobe is from there. My only complaints would arise if that person believes he or she is 'gothic' because of their attire.