I think you should do it the other way, and give small simple compliments as soon as you notice them. When you do, it comes off as natural and unplanned, and th

I think you should do it the other way, and give small simple compliments as soon as you notice them. When you do, it comes off as natural and unplanned, and therefore confident and enthusiastic. Holding onto a compliment can alter your delivery so that it is unnatural, and that is one element of "creepiness." Other elements are lingering or prying. You don't need to force further engagement even if you're going to remain in the other person's proximity. Learn to give a compliment and then stand in it without reciprocation or followup. Might feel awkward at first but if you start with strangers you have nothing to lose. Be okay with them being okay with simply receiving a compliment. It might help if you can come to perceive small compliments as expressions of your own taste rather than simple flatteries. Every now and then, someone will say something more and then you'll have a conversation.