Could I bring back old Hot Topic?

I made a comment on TikTok saying that if I could, I’d start my own parody store called Off Topic, a playful spin on Hot Topic, but strictly focused on the 90s and 2000s era. That comment blew up, gaining over 25,000 likes and tons of people agreeing with the idea.

Coincidentally, my mom and I have been planning to start our own emo/goth business for a while. Our original concept was called Coffin Closet, but after seeing the excitement for this idea, I think we could stick with Off Topic or maybe even Off Subject. 

For reference, there’s already a Hot Topic-inspired bar in Dallas called Shot Topic, using the same font, so it’s definitely doable. Funny enough, I also heard about a situation where another store used “closet” in its name, and Plato’s Closet got defensive about it, so I’m cautious about that, too.

With so much positive feedback, I’m ready to talk with my mom about starting as an online store, with the goal of going international. If we can raise enough funds, we’d love to eventually open a physical store in a shopping center or mall.

And don’t worry, I’ll be reaching out to some elder emos to get their input on what Hot Topic used to sell back in the day. Anything they don’t carry anymore? We will. That includes Demonias, studded belts, buckle belts, hair dye, CDs, Tripp pants, and so much more.