Zaoebi, the last person I complimented on their clothing, the first in a long time, was someone I had just met her at our sons’ graduation. I mentioned towards the end of the event that the way her dress moved was lovely. She seemed surprised in a positive way. They’re from Toronto, where I think there are as many hijabis as here, but I wondered later if a “normal” compliment like that from a non-Muslim is unusual. Idk.
It sounds like L’Abielle made a kind remark that was appreciated (especially because young mothers are often shocked at their own "disappearance"), but I generally refrain from commenting on items of clothing lest I drift into “them jeans sure do fit you right” territory (have your husband say it with a drawl & you'll see what I mean). Even things that aren’t usually considered sexual, like shoes, can take on weird tones. I remember a conversation about high heels in which I said you (generic "you", not meaning anyone present) have to be able to walk in them. The guy I was talking with said “you sure do know how to walk in them!” Awwwwwk-ward! Another time, I ran into a prof from my Masters program at a conference; he purred about how I used to come to class barefoot (it was Austin, a philosophy class, on Marxism) a little too appreciatively. He later made it clear that yes, he did mean it that way. Being known as his student suddenly had a whole new connotation for me. Anyway, the most I’m likely to say about someone’s attire is they were smart to bring a rain jacket while the rest of us are getting soaked, or similar. I will comment that someone is prepared/ organized/ helpful/ friendly, makes x look easy, handled something well or was kind (in an awkward situation with a third person), or the like.
I also think Berliners assume non-comment on others’ appearances. The other night at the grocery, I encountered 2 young women in bras, briefs, and open trenchcoats, all black, of course, just going about their business. I didn't say anything, and neither did anyone else.
