The Real Simple Reader Etiquette Poll

Should You Comment on a Friend’s New Hairstyle, Even If You Don’t Like It?

Readers say:

Say nothing unless she asks: 46.9%

Yes―and always say it looks great: 45.5%

Yes―and be totally honest: 7.6%


 Experts say: “You have to say something,” says Gaetano Ruvio, a stylist at the Miguel Lopez Salon, in New York City. But instead of proclaiming unqualified love, he suggests finding out what your friend thinks: “Say, ‘I noticed your haircut. Are you going to someone new?’ If she’s not thrilled, you can tactfully commiserate and encourage her to get it fixed.”