How do you respectfully DM someone on social media?

Hey all,

One of my friends (F23) told me it's super normal to DM girls you're interested in on Instagram to try and meet for a date (as long as you have mutuals). I don't actually believe her, but she said as long as you're nice, it's no big deal.

Here's my question, how? I have zero, and I literally mean zero intention of turning things sexual, but I feel like DMs are inherently sexual in nature. I really do just want to get back out there again and try and go on a few dates. Dating apps have been unfortunately unsuccessful.

Just wondering if any of you have been on the receiving end of DMs, and have any good examples of how they kept it respectful.

Thank you all :).