Fiona is the owner of Urban Dust Hat Bar and Boutique Maldon.

In a past life, Fiona spent 20 years in the fashion accessories industry working behind the scenes alongside brands such as Sportsgirl, Susan, General Pants, Witchery, Seed and Just Jeans… just to name a few!

Flying around the world sourcing product and then developing it (bringing it to life) in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, China and India for the local Australian market.

In 2014, Fiona found out she was expecting her 'everything', Addi Mae, turning her city based, jet setting, lifestyle on its head.
The country town of Maldon awaited.

Maldon is the town her husband, Ash, was born and raised. The McKnight family is etched into the history of Maldon and she was about to become part of its framework.

The move was daunting and the adjustment to country life has taken time but she now feels like she is home and cannot wait to bring some of her experience to Maldon for locals and visitors to see.

You would have unknowingly come across some of Fiona’s accessories in the wider market. In 2015, when working from home was taboo in the industry, Fiona started her own successful accessories wholesaling business. She shipped out more than 3 million products from their farm in Baringhup.

The rest is history. During Covid, it was time for the company to change direction and everything has pointed towards the new fabulous location at 2A Main Street, Maldon.

On a trip to America, where everyone dreams big, Fiona came across the hat bar concept. She immediately knew Maldon needed a store like this.

With the growing importance of hats in our harsh climate and the need for 'experiences' what better way than the ability to make one your own and unique. This can be achieved by adding hand selected scarves, feathers, brooches, playing cards, hat pins, patches and so much more is on offer in store.

Our little hat bar and boutique has become a destination store. There is sure to be something in there for everyone. 

It’s going to be somewhere for 'good old fashioned fun'.