Learn English – Which adjectives can be used to say to people they dressed nicely in a formal way

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Which adjectives can be used to say to someone, like a colleague, lecturer or boss, in a formal or semi-formal way without sounding flirty, that they are dressed nicely? I am looking for a simple compliment.

I think there are some adjectives that can be used both for men and women, but there are some also that only can be used for men or women.

These are some adjectives I know in this sense but I don't know how informal/formal they are or whether they're appropriate for both men and women: Smart (mostly UK), decent, dapper, chic.

Best Answer

In a formal professional setting, it can be better not to discuss another person's appearance. Some people take compliments better than others and some will read more into it than you mean regardless of what you say.

Complimenting appearance is generally (arguably) more commonly done by women to other women or (less frequently) men. There are times where a male may compliment a female, particularly likely at a special event or out-of-work meeting where their dress is considerably different from their usual appearance. Note that this is a generalization and does not necessarily apply to all people.

If you feel it necessary, I think that the most gender non-specific way of telling someone they look good that won't have any issues with impropriety is to say:

You look nice.

This can seem a bit vague but it can still be very effective if you make it specific to the person you're addressing and how you say it will make it seem sincere.

You can add a bit to it to make it less terse,

You look very nice tonight.

It can also be followed by a specific thing you think they've done well:

You look nice. I really like your dress/suit.

You look nice. That color really suits you.

You could also go this route but be careful to use only if it's really obvious they've made a change to their look:

You look nice. Did you get a new hair cut/glasses?

In general, people like getting affirmation that their new look suits them as they can be a little unsure.

This can all go out the window the second you become friendly with your coworkers/boss and your gender in relation to theirs can greatly affect what's appropriate.

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