If you know her to be a shy person, however, or see that she is reserved around others, then perhaps gauging her body language is not the best indicator of interest.
You might ask them for advice as well on how to talk to her and ask her out.
Social media can be helpful in this area, as well. Facebook has a relationship option so that you can indicate whether or not you are dating someone. She might also post about her significant other, if she has one, on other social media sites.
Though not all women are gay or bi, there are many women out there for you. Don’t get caught up on one who is disinterested. Take care of yourself, as well. If she is making very harsh or insensitive comments about the gay community, know that it is okay to remove yourself from the conversation.
You could also approach her and ask something like “are you here with your boyfriend?” If she is not in a relationship or is not heterosexual, she might disclose both to you.
Don’t stare for too long, however. This might be offputting to her.
Take a few deep breaths to calm down before you approach her if you are nervous. Practice your approach in the mirror.
You might make fun of something like the cafeteria lunch or make a joke about something funny a coworker did to make her laugh.
You might say something like “I noticed some of your artwork the other day and it’s phenomenal!”
Make sure you don’t ask questions that are too personal if you don’t know her well, however. Maybe ask things like what she does for fun or her favorite book or movie. This will also help you determine whether or not you officially want to ask her out.
You might say something like “I wanted to know if maybe we could talk or text sometime? If so, I’d like to have your number. ”
You could even text her something like “hey, are you gonna be around at 1PM today? I have something to ask you. ”
Respect her privacy. She may be LGBT but not want others to know. If she communicates this to you, do not out her. Allow her to do that on her own terms.
Say something like “I was wondering if I could take you on a date this weekend to a new restaurant downtown. ”
Ask her if she has any dietary restrictions so that you know what kind of restaurants to take her to or to stay away from. If you pick dinner, allow her to pick the movies.