This Aussie Fashion Label Is Turning Recycled Plastics into Raincoats and Activewear

We all know that fast fashion is gross. And yet, we're all familiar with the need to something cheap and quick in a time crunch — often overwhelming our need to not pollute the planet beyond repair.

We really don't do well by Mother Earth here in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, every year 500,000 tonnes of fashion ends up in landfill and each Aussie consumes 27 kilograms of textiles.

Rhianna Knight believes we can do better, so she started an apparel business that won't leave you feeling shamefaced. The result is Mister Timbuktu and, after a successful crowdfunding campaign earlier this year, it's kicking ass — with its debut collection now available.

Mister Timbuktu's outdoor apparel is made from recycled plastics and discarded fishing nets. At the moment, the range is all about quality leggings, raincoats and crop tops, but they'll soon branch into all things outdoorsy, including tents, sleeping bags and puffer jackets. The designs are gorgeous and bright because outdoor activities don't have to be completed in drab natural colours (apologies, Kathmandu, you serve a purpose but there's a new queen on the block).

According to Knight, eleven plastic bottles are recycled in each pair of leggings they create. How in the name of activewear is that possible? Well, recycled plastics are collected, shredded into chips, washed, melted into liquid form and then spun into thread that goes on to become your new favourite comfy pants. Science, bitches!

The company also puts 20 percent of profits back into helping the planet in other ways: by partnering with both a mental health charity (Waves of Wellness) and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife.

But wait, there's more. Okay, we probably shouldn't get so excited about this part because the rest of the initiative is so phenomenal, but check out the leggings: they have a pocket in the waistband which is the best and most practical thing ever. Thank you for listening to our secret wishes and delivering.

For more information, visit Mister Timbuktu's website.