38 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2026-2027 FASHION Earlier in 2026, Brides.com published a list of 11 television shows about wedding dresses. From choices like Say Yes to the Dress to Disney’s Fairytale Weddings, it’s clear that brides have a range of choice when it comes to selecting their clothing. But their equal halves are not to be overlooked, as the groom’s choice for wedding attire can express just as much taste. “It’s a matter of personality,” says Albert Garcia, manager of Patrick James in the Barnyard in Carmel. Patrick James is a men’s clothing franchise that also publishes fashion guides on its website. Garcia says he often sees grooms and groomsmen come in to select something other than a tuxedo for their big day. “Weddings have downsized a little more,” Garcia says. “People can buy their suits and have something to wear other than just for the wedding.” While he acknowledges that the tuxedo is a classic look for grooms and groomsmen, smaller and more intimate weddings at outdoor venues are something that Garcia hears a lot about. Venues like this aren’t always conducive to something as formal as a tux, but they allow for more vibrancy and creativity in men’s occasion clothing. Garcia says that grooms often will exclude neckwear such as ties and go with something more casual, but will still dress up their look with a pair of hard shoes. Fashion can be elevated with a suit, which gives grooms other options like interesting or matching pocket squares as an added flair. Purchasing a suit is more expensive up-front than renting a tuxedo, starting around $700-$1,000 (or more). But Garcia maintains that the suit is still the less expensive option because of longevity and customization. While patterned suits for weddings are not in vogue currently, the mark of a good suit—especially for a wedding—comes from wearing something that is classic yet still unique. Suits aren’t the only option for men on the big day. Beach and forest wedGet Groomed Casual and themed wedding fashion for grooms and groomsmen make the occasion unique. By Sloan Campi MICHAEL DADULA grooms.indd 1 2/19/26 10:39 AM
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