You know what I figured out as a man? Just listen to the other party in this order of increasing priority: body language, facial expression, their words. MAIN THING TO AVOID: Never assume they are/will be comfortable with you. Never assume consent with body language or facial expression. If they want to be romantically involved THEY will approach you.

Before I was married my mind was on alert talking women in order not to come off as creepy. This was with women whom I had purely platonic relationships like my coworkers or college mates. I am aware the effect men have with their staring. To this day when I am walking on the street I make sure to not walk behind women. If I can i overtake them. If not I just change directions even if my destination is straight ahead. Treating the nonfamily women in my life like I would treat men should be the right thing to do... but its not easy with the reputation that men have among women.

So my point effectively is just don't be creepy and pushy. Just be polite and reciprocate interest. Otherwise just treat them like your sister or guy friend.

Why don't you use websites without using apps?

It's possible to talk to random women without seeming intimidating. Always leave an easy out. Don't be pushy. Be casual. The thing people don't get is they try to just fish for numbers. Sometimes, just a compliment and never talking to her again is what you need.

But, the best way to meet new people for relationships is to meet new friends. Every person you meet opens a ton of opportunities for experiences and connections.

Don't start talking to them with the intent to ask them out. Just see if you can get their attention, see of you can find a little bit of common ground to build a conversation on, then, if they are receiving you well over the course of your conversation, say something like "hey, I enjoyed talking to you, would you mind meeting up some other time?" or something to that effect. This works best in places for socializing, bars, music venues, hobby spaces, etc. It can be applied to more formal places, just has to happen over a broader period of time, as you get to know your coworkers, or whatever.

The strong vibes of "my intent in talk to you is to have sex" is, often, what makes things uncomfortable. So, even if you can't find common ground, or the conversation went well and she turns you down, or gives some non-committal answer, and you part ways amicably, you will have not be seen as some creep.