That is a good question. When I am at work there are even times I think I shouldnt have said something complimentary. I limit comments to "nice color " pretty blouse or other banal comments. You might try saying" you look bovine today" and see what comes of that

I don't know anyone that doesn't appreciate a nice compliment. I just wouldn't say something like, "that dress makes you look thinner", not good, LOL. Hopefully, you already know that. @Qualia example, is good.

When I see something I think is great I say so. "great shirt" "That fabric is really pretty" "colors look great on you." So far it works, I do not spend time close to the person, usually just while in line at the market or some other store. I say what I say and move on, I have never noticed a problem. I might just be really dense though.

I rarely give compliments, I’d look like a creep anyway.

As someone with fairly low self esteem, it REALLY makes my day if someone compliments me. Regardless of if I know them or not. If it's someone you know or work with, a simple "that looks really great on you" or "you look great" is good. I was at the post office one day and a stranger told me he thought I looked really good in the dress I was wearing. I don't think I'll ever forget that! lol.

I tend to compliment people because I know it can make someone's day. Of course if I make eye contact with strangers I also smile at them. But I live in Minnesota so perhaps that wouldn't be acceptable elsewhere?

Just say "you look nice today". As long as you don't make a big deal out of it in front of everyone or make it sexual they shouldn't be offended. It's OK to complement people.

"Cringy" is not a what, generally--it's a how: words are less important than facial expression, tone, posture, gesture, etc.

Unless of course the words are "You smell different when you're sleeping" or something of that nature...

Don't sweat it. Speak from the heart, naturally, authentically, and don't over think it. Whatever feeling is behind it will come across if you don't strangle yourself. If the feeling behind it isn't creepifying, you're in the clear.

Yes just say it

I'm careful about that not because of the cringe factor, but if I tell someone that she looks good today, she may infer that I am also saying that normally she doesn't.

Oooh is this a work environment question? If it is don't listen to me haha

I do it often, even to strangers, They generally appreciate it. If it comes off as cringy, maybe its because you are cringy, lol, no offense intended.

Depends on context. If you always get a cringe, just stop.

You shore look purdy

Simply say that. You look very nice today. I don't know anyone that would be offended by that. Don't mention weight or whether or not they look rested.

I like 'You scrub up well', probably explains why I'm single (well separated) lol

I think anyone enjoys a compliment .... Where's the harm ?

Are we as a society too sensitive? I have never had anything but gratitude when complimenting someone. With a girl I usually say something like "Hey, I like that outfit, it really suits you" people come up to me regularly saying how much they love my shirts even shy little old ladies.

You look particularly radiant today would work on me. LOL

Nice outfit! (if it's new)
I like your hair (if it was changed since you last saw it)
Great shoes! Where did you get them (this only works with same sex person)?
You look great this morning.
I love that shirt color with those pants.
You're in great shape these days. Are you doing some new workout? (same gender only, to be safe)

Thank you for making the day brighter.

Just say what ''you'' think. Using from another's point of view is cringy.

Just say it without being creepy. I confess: sometimes when I'm having a bad day, it lifts my spirits for a guy passing on the street or a coworker to say, "You look nice!" or "That color works for you!"

Then READ THE SIGNS. If they smile brightly and say, "Thanks!", great.

If they ignore you, barely acknowledge, don't look like they want to be bothered, GO. AWAY.

I've never been outgoing , but decided I needed a change . As I grew older and am now using the store scooters when I grocery shop , I realized how down the disabled seem to be . I came up with a 100% comment that always leaves them with a smile . As we scooter past one another in opposite directions , I smile at them and say , " Hey , wan'na race ? " Always get a smile or chuckle or both , although no one has ever said yes , or tried to catch me . One day , when I was not in my regular store , some guy said it to me .You know what ? It cracked me up too .

I like your shirt. Its a good color/style for you.

It's a mine field. Use extreme caution