Dear Urban Diplomat: how do I politely tell my cyclist co-worker about his reeking shirt?
Dear Urban Diplomat, My cubicle-mate has started cycling to work from Etobicoke—a ride that leaves him smelling less than daisy fresh. To make matters worse, he hangs up his sweaty cycling top in our cubicle so it can dry in time for his trip home. I don’t wan t to embarrass him, but I need to clear the air, so to speak. How should I go about this? —Holding my nose, KING AND UNIVERSITY
I once had a gym teacher—possibly the long-lost brother of Biff from Back to the Future—who would spray the stinkiest boys with Obsession for Men. Alas, when we reach adulthood, the BO quandary requires more tact. Butter up your co-worker by praising him for his daily commute, then keep it light: “Dude, your biking shirt smells like old onion rings. Please, seal that thing away in your bag.” That way your issue is with the shirt, not the wearer. He should be able to connect the dots. If not, grab some Obsession for Men and fire at will.
Send your questions to the Urban Diplomat at urbandiplomat@torontolife.com
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