If you're an 80's baby like me then it's most likely that you have heard of the the Italian brand Ellesse. (pronounced L.S., the initials of Lenoardo Servardio, founder of Ellesse)

It's one of those European brands, along with Lacoste, that I always saw in my parents' and siblings' closets. My parents were  into tennis while my brothers and I were fans of F1's Alain Prost, both associated with Ellesse. It has also been part of the hip-hop culture the past several decades with the classic tracksuits and apparel being rocked by rappers (as seen recently on Kreayshawn). The bright colors and unique styles appealed to me then and still appeals to me now.

Ellese has been around for over 50 years and the brand is making noise once again with its latest collaboration with some of the most popular sneaker stores in today's scene. Old-school mixed with new-school. Me likey.

German sneaker store, 'Amen', bring their signature minimalist precision to the 117, ellesse's most celebrated style in the sneaker community. A bright tennis ball neon is the key colour with tech styling, 3M touches and perforated leather. The final result being a functional futuristic sneaker set to have a big impact.

Tennis ball, anyone?

Atmos bring their typical abstract tastes to the table for a rework of the 1984 Marathon classic. Features include a controversial all over red pantone symbolising good luck in Japan, Picasso inspired artwork and a sock print for that eclectic atmos touch.

The Atmos co-branding makes this one a must cop.

Kin place their ethos on the oldest ellesse runner style, The Fava. 'Kin' is the idea of family and value passed through generations; with the store becoming a hub for the creative community. The late 70s silhouette is preserved with Horween leather revamped for a generation where heritage has become a luxury.

Premium leather always makes me giddy.

With Special being a hub in the Milan skate scene the obvious shoe choice was The Assist, worn by 80s skateboarding pro Natas Kaupas. Special revive the navy, white and red colourway that adorned the pages of Transworld skate magazine, throwing patent and ostrich leather into the mix.

My pick. That ostrich leather is pimp!

London's quintessential Present re-style the Poli runner, which was worn by Marathon winner Gianni Poli in 1986. Paying tribute to their love of menswear only the champagne of fabrics will do, with Harris tweed being the fabrication of choice. The final design proves a smarter style for the rugged gent.

You can never go wrong with tweed fabric on anything, even sneakers!