[Pinocchio]

to me it sounds like theyre getting confused about your intentions. this is why i would always go direct..

"do you know a good place to go for an ugly sweater?" in my head this sounds like a really weird thing to say.

"excuse me, i literally just saw you and thought you looked nice and had to come over and talk to you blah blah blah"

at least now sees clear on your intentions and youve had the balls to admit it.