After a brief absence from the spotlight, the New Balance 550 is making a comeback in retro-colored designs that recall its 1989 birth year and the on-court design that became an iconic part of the 1990s.

With an uncannily similar color scheme to the UNC Tarheels, aged beige tones cover the majority of the upper’s premium leather construction, with touches of dark blue at the tongue’s trim and the lining of the perforated quarter overlay. Pebble grain leathers are taken from the outside of a basketball and used to cover the subdued University Blue “N” emblem, which is highlighted by a “Vintage Indigo” lining, deepening its link to the game. The latter combination is used across many branding initiatives, including the 550 branding on the forefoot and the logos on the tongue and heel counter.

The New Balance 550 “Vintage Indigo” has an officially announced release date of 14 December and is retailing for US$100 through New Balance. Meanwhile, enjoy the official images as you prepare your wallets.

Elsewhere in the realm of streetwear, check out the cultural-infused Denim Tears x Stüssy collection.