Casual cocktail party

[notingthewear]

Last time we thought the cocktail thing at a house party was a joke 😬😩, a few others made the same mistake ( the hosts were very cool about it) - it was embarrassing and amusing but we can't pull the same stunt twice.
So what to wear if you're a man. He has a tux but that feels a too formal. He wears suits to work so they always feel inappropriate for a night out. His mate wears a flowery shirt and velvet jacket - which is perfect but we can't copy that. He has fairly plain tastes. I'll wear a dress a fake fur - so I'm sorted.

Any ideas please.

Add a silk waistcoat to sharp suit. Dark silk shirt/no tie

Thanks Walzing - he has a waistcoat that came with a recent suit - it's a bit much for work - might give that a try.

Sorry I don’t understand - you say it’s a casual cocktail party but you’re wearing a dress and a fake fur?? And people are suggesting waistcoats?

The OP is asking about a chaps outfit Witt this dress code.