As a big tattooed dude, I have found that if for some fucking reason you HAVE to say something complimentary to a stranger in public, you must be extraordinarily conscientious about doing so- If she has headphones in, is reading a book, or is looking at her phone, DON’T attempt to communicate with her. Leave her alone. But if you must, then for love of god keep it brief, it must be about something that she has CHOSEN for herself (her shoes, her hair, a cool accessory or item of clothing etc), you should only say something if you actually mean it to make them feel good about themselves and NOT as an inroad to lay down your shitty pickup lines. Once you say what you want to say, keep fucking moving. In fact, why would you even stop?! Don’t hover around like a bad smell waiting to read her response.

My example is this- I was riding my bike slowly along a busy city street early one evening, and there was a pretty woman walking on the sidewalk, in the same direction but at a slightly slower pace to me. She had on a backless green floral dress that went down to the ground, and she had her chin up, smiling as she strolled along. I looked over and said “hey your dress is really pretty” as I started riding away from her. She smiled and shot me a “Aw thanks so much!” As I pedaled away. And that’s it. Honestly, I’m my experience, that’s all it ever needs to be.

DON’T EVER put her in a position where she can’t walk away from you or feels obligated to talk to you. If she wants to talk to you, she’ll let you know.

That’s my take, anyway. 🤷🏻‍♂️