DEAR MISS MANNERS: When is it okay to give out advice about personal appearance?
I have a single friend who is looking for a mate. Her personal grooming, hairstyle and clothing are very outdated and shabby. She’s quite intellectual, but apparently oblivious or indifferent about her appearance. I don’t think she’s considered updating either her wardrobe or hairstyle since college, well over 15 years ago.
Is there a way to be helpful without losing her as a friend?
GENTLE READER: The right time to give such advice is when your friend requests it, and the way to give it without losing her as a friend is tactfully. Miss Manners does not mean to minimize the effort this will require after holding your tongue for the past 15 years.
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(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
