Wedding Guides
The days of identical groomsmen in matching rentals are over. Discover 2026's coordinated-not-identical trend, three coordination strategies, and how to make the groom stand out.
The days of identical groomsmen in matching rental suits are over. 2026's biggest wedding trend is "coordinated, not identical"—a approach where the wedding party shares a cohesive color story without looking like they're in uniform. This guide covers the three main coordination strategies, how to make the groom stand out, and the accessories that tie everything together.
The 2026 Coordination Revolution
Modern couples want their wedding party to look intentional but not identical. The groomsmen should complement the bridesmaids, but each person should bring their own personality to the look. This creates more interesting photos and makes everyone feel more comfortable.
Why Coordinated-Not-Identical Works
- Better photos: Visual variety creates more dynamic wedding images
- Personal comfort: Groomsmen can wear fits that flatter their body types
- Re-wearability: Each groomsman can actually wear their suit again
- Budget-friendly: Groomsmen can use suits they own or will actually use again
Three Coordination Strategies
Same Color, Different Accessories
Subtle Distinction
All groomsmen wear the same suit color, but accessories vary. The groom wears a unique tie, vest, or pocket square that sets him apart. Simple, cohesive, but still allows the groom to stand out.
Example Setup:
- Groom: Navy suit + burgundy tie + gold pocket square
- Groomsmen: Navy suits + blush ties + white pocket squares
- Coordination: Blush ties match bridesmaid dress color
Best for: Traditional couples, formal venues, larger wedding parties where uniformity helps organization
Groom in Tuxedo, Groomsmen in Suits
Clear Hierarchy
The groom wears a tuxedo (satin lapels, formal details) while groomsmen wear coordinating suits (same color family, no satin). This creates clear visual hierarchy—everyone knows who the groom is without asking.
Example Setup:
- Groom: Black tuxedo with satin lapels + bow tie + cummerbund
- Groomsmen: Black suits (no satin) + long ties + no cummerbund
- Alternative: Groom in midnight blue tuxedo, groomsmen in navy suits
Best for: Black-tie weddings, formal evening ceremonies, grooms who want unmistakable distinction
Different Shades, Same Family
2026's Top Trend
Each groomsman wears a different shade within the same color family. The groom wears the darkest or most distinctive shade. This creates visual interest while maintaining cohesion—the 2026 favorite.
Example Setup (Blue Family):
- Groom: Navy suit (darkest)
- Best Man: Slate blue suit
- Groomsmen: Mix of dusty blue, light blue, steel gray suits
- Coordination: All wear matching ties in the bridesmaid color
Best for: Fashion-forward couples, outdoor venues, couples wanting memorable photos
How to Make the Groom Stand Out
Beyond suit color, these styling elements distinguish the groom from his groomsmen:
Three-Piece vs. Two-Piece
Groom wears a vest, groomsmen don't. The vest adds formality and visual distinction.
Different Lapel Style
Groom in peak lapels, groomsmen in notch lapels. Subtle but noticeable in photos.
Bow Tie vs. Long Tie
Groom wears bow tie, groomsmen wear long ties. Classic distinction method.
Different Boutonnière
Groom's boutonnière is larger, more elaborate, or different flower variety.
Suspenders vs. Belt
Groom wears suspenders (more formal), groomsmen wear belts.
Unique Pocket Square
Groom's pocket square matches bride's bouquet, groomsmen match bridesmaids.
Coordinating with Bridesmaids
The Accessories Connection
Groomsmen ties, pocket squares, or suspenders should coordinate with bridesmaid dress colors. This creates visual harmony in photos without requiring matching suits.
| Bridesmaid Color | Suit Color | Accessory Match |
|---|---|---|
| Blush Pink | Navy, charcoal, light gray | Blush ties, rose gold cufflinks |
| Dusty Rose | Navy, charcoal, sage green | Dusty rose ties, burgundy pocket squares |
| Sage Green | Navy, charcoal, tan | Sage ties, bronze accessories |
| Dusty Blue | Navy, charcoal, light gray | Dusty blue ties, silver cufflinks |
| Burgundy | Navy, charcoal, black | Burgundy ties, gold accessories |
| Lavender | Light gray, charcoal, navy | Lavender ties, silver accessories |
Vest vs. Suspenders: The 2026 Debate
Choose Vest When...
- Formal or black-tie dress code
- Indoor ceremony
- Photos will be jacket-on primarily
- Groom wants traditional elegance
- Cooler temperatures (vest adds warmth)
Choose Suspenders When...
- Semi-formal or casual dress code
- Outdoor ceremony (cooler without vest)
- Photos will include jacket-off shots
- Rustic, barn, or garden venues
- Warmer temperatures
2026 Trend: Many grooms are choosing both—wearing the vest for the ceremony and photos, then switching to suspenders for the reception and dancing.
The KCT Standard
We've coordinated thousands of wedding parties since 1983. We understand the balance between cohesion and individuality—and we know how to make every groomsman look great while ensuring the groom stands out.
Our stylists can help you develop a coordination strategy that works for your venue, budget, and vision. We stock matching accessories in every wedding color, making bridesmaid coordination seamless.
Real Coordination Examples
Example 1: Formal Ballroom Wedding
Groom: Navy three-piece suit, satin tie, gold pocket square
Groomsmen: Navy two-piece suits, blush ties, white pocket squares
Bridesmaids: Blush gowns
Result: Cohesive, elegant, groom clearly distinguished by vest
Example 2: Rustic Barn Wedding
Groom: Charcoal suit + sage green tie + suspenders
Groomsmen: Mix of gray shades + sage green ties + belts
Bridesmaids: Sage green dresses
Result: Relaxed coordination, groom distinguished by suspenders and darkest shade
Example 3: Beach Wedding
Groom: Light gray linen suit + dusty blue tie + tan shoes
Groomsmen: Light gray linen pants + white shirts + dusty blue suspenders
Bridesmaids: Dusty blue dresses
Result: Casual elegance, groom distinguished by full suit vs. separates
Ready to Coordinate Your Wedding Party?
Visit either KCT Menswear location to discuss your coordination strategy. Bring bridesmaid fabric swatches—we'll match accessories perfectly. Book a group fitting and we'll ensure everyone looks their best.
Downtown Kalamazoo:
213 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Phone: (269) 342-1234
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm
Crossroads Mall Portage:
6650 S Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49024
Phone: (269) 323-8070
Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 12pm-6pm
— KCT Style Team
The Whole Party
Coordinating groomsmen is easier with the tools: start your wedding to manage everyone in one place, match colors with the Color Matcher, and read the full groomsmen guide.