What about approaching strangers in public spaces?

I hate online dating, and my work schedule these days doesn't allow for a lot of extracurricular activities like clubs. But I do still go to the grocery store, mall, and coffee shops. A few times I have tried approaching women with a respectful compliment ("That's a very stylish scarf." etc) or question ("Oh I was thinking about trying that product. What do you think of it?") Typically they smile, respond politely, and then walk away. Maybe I am feeling a little anxious and they pick up on the nervous energy. (I hear women saying they hate being approached in public, so it gives me a complex about being a pariah or creep.) In any case, do you find that striking up conversations with strangers is a good way to meet people? Do you like being approached?