An example of beyond the pale now, but with the kindest of intentions at age 43. LB to 27 y.o. tall, well built, female assistant ......... no others present.
"Oh, I do like that skirt!"
"Sir, I know you dislike me to wear culottes [HOW? I NEVER SAID A WORD FOR MONTHS] but they are practical and comfortable. I am a bit big for skirts!"
We got on like a house on fire usually, and her career prospered, and I stopped commenting on staff clothing.
Dodgy then, very dodgy now, unless I misread the zeitgeist.