TUCKED away along the Melium Galleria row in Suria KLCC is a well-kept secret that used to be called +IT. Given its unusual name, some might have mistaken it to be a boutique for plus-size dresses!
The outlet is one of the many +IT boutiques that’s part of the Ittierre chain, the ready-to-wear division of IT Holdings.
Recently, the store was rebranded as HIT Gallery. And, true to its name, it’s proving to be a hit with the more discerning crowd who have a nose for luxury, style and class.
It is the only place in Kuala Lumpur (and Malaysia) that stocks funky must-have younger labels like D&G, Just Cavalli, Galliano and C’N’C Costume National.
The label Just Cavalli is regarded as the more aggressive, in-your-face, younger and sexier version of Roberto Cavalli.
If you thought the latter was loud, check out this diffusion line. Though there is talk that it is an ailing label (Cavalli was reputedly trying to sell it but changed his mind), Malaysians are still huge fans.
Wild prints, floral motifs and bright colours have always found a comfortable niche with our local fashionistas.
The fall/winter 2009/2010 collection draws inspiration from music, specifically edgy pop and punk. Think Nancy Spungen, Sid Vicious, Debbie Harry of Blondie and Iggy Pop.
Imagine the future scenario of punk women – Nancy and Debbie of those times – and who are still anti-establishment today, standing up against the Big Brothers (of fashion) who want to keep dressing streamlined.
For the rebels, dressing is all about being creative. Fashion reflects one’s personality and the only rule is freedom.
This rule runs through both the women’s and men’s collections. Expect lots of leather, denim, studs, metal macro jewels andlayers. The silhouette is quite structured; shoulders go the religious route and hark back to pagodas.
Shine and shimmer take precedence – silver, bronze, black and greys dominate.
Still young and sexy but very much understated, D&G’s diffusion line is for the man or woman who doesn’t need to shout, “Look at what I’m wearing.”
A personal favourite is a subtle piece, exquisitely cut and full of little details. Again, it’s inspired by music, with hints of street cred.
In the store now are both the men’s and women’s Fall 2009 collections.
For the women, it’s all a flutter with butterfly motifs, chiffon tiers, voluminous sleeves and cinched waists. Also, nods to Hollywood glam of the 1940s, with a twist of 1980s power suits.
Finally, printed images of paintings and frescoes go on display on some of the pieces.
The men’s collection goes cerebral with urban appeal.
There’s a relaxed masculine elegance and few colour contrasts. Coats and parka jackets are alternated on pinstripe suits in midnight blue and grey.
Colour clashes happen in a good way, inspired by street-chic. There are colourful puffa-jackets with that retro feel; oversized cargos and jeans, and for those in the winter wonderland mood, thick multi-coloured knitwear in green, red and blue.
Eventually, you have to get off the streets and dress up for a night out on the town.
Have a drink in a mismatched suit and sophisticated jacquar prints: the D&G man doesn’t care. Fix that bow-tie on single- or double-breasted jackets.
And don’t forget the It bag for men – the Billy Bag – made of soft vintage-effect leather, with chrome zippers.
If neither of these two labels grab you, there’s still a small selection from Galliano and C’N’C to look at.
The secret’s out, now go hit the store!
