General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Six tips for men about "Compliments" [View all]MineralMan
(146,284 posts)Compliments on appearance are out of place, except when made to someone with whom you have a relationship. And even then, they're much better kept general in nature, unless you're actively involved in intimate relations. That's always been what I've believed.
With strangers, even general appearance compliments are not proper. They're personal, and if you don't have a personal relationship with that person, why are you offering any opinion at all about appearance?
Compliments that have nothing to do with appearance, gender, sex or anything else may or may not be appropriate. You could say, "I though you brought up some really good ideas in the meeting," is fine if you're talking with a colleague. "I really like your outfit," however, is not OK in the same situation.