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Hot Topic Creates Collection Centered Around Disney's "Maleficent"

Hot Topic customers like their clothing in shades of black and more black.

So creating a collection based on the Disney movie "Maleficent," the Sleeping Beauty tale told from the evil witch's point of view, seemed like a natural for the Southern California-based retailer.

Disney and Hot Topic designers have been working behind the scenes since last September to create seven dark-hued pieces and two lighter-colored silhouettes in honor of the Princess Aurora character played by Elle Fanning.

Now the capsule collection will be available online at Hot Topic's website on April 15 and in all 637 stores on May 13. The movie debuts on May 30. "The look of 'Maleficent' appeals to the Hot Topic customer. It is dark, edgy fashion," said Cindy Levitt, Hot Topic's vice president of merchandising. "We know there will be a frenzy when it comes out."

The collection has dresses and tops ranging in price from $29.50 $54.50.

Some of the stand-out pieces include a high-collared black dress with a scoop neckline and a tulle petticoat that falls to just above the knees. Then there is a button-front, black knit coat dress with pleather trim on the shoulders. One of the more dramatic pieces is a black-hooded, bat-wing cape.

More innocent pieces include a white, bell-sleeved dress with a ribbon tie-up, and a pink lace, hook-and-eye top.