I unintentionally packed just a single skirt for my trip, but I was able to put together five different outfits with it.

      I tend to overpack. I have always been an overpacker. I'm so skilled at it that I could likely compete in overpacking. My checked luggage has exceeded weight limits more often than it has been within the allowed size, so you can imagine my shock when I recently unpacked my carry-on (the only luggage I had) and discovered I packed just one skirt and no other bottoms. Usually, I plan my outfits in advance and include some extra tops and bottoms for good measure. However, this time, I was a little rushed and couldn’t organize my outfits, but I certainly aimed to have more choices than a single skirt. At least, that's what I thought. What began as a mistake soon turned into a fun fashion challenge.

      Fortunately, the skirt I had was a fantastic one—a pleated denim polka-dot skirt by DL1961. For me, it’s the skirt of the summer. Polka dots have been popular for months now, but it has long been one of my favorite patterns because it adds a whimsical touch to any outfit. It also reminds me of summers spent with my family in the south of Spain, as polka dots are a key element of the flamenco style. While I didn't plan on wearing it for five consecutive days, it turned out to be a pleasant surprise due to its versatility. Below, you can see what I mean. It turned out to be the perfect foundation for everything I wanted to wear and serves as a reminder that sometimes, you don't need a lot of clothes—just one ideal piece that can tie everything together.

      **Look One:** A Black Crop Top with Classic Cap-Toe Ballet Flats

      **Tory Burch**

      Cap-Toe Ballet Flats

      **Look Two:** A Pink Gingham Crop Top with Satin Ballet Flats and an Oversized Flower Hair Clip

      **Lovers and Friends**

      Aimee Crop Top

      **Miu Miu**

      Satin Bow Ballerina Flats

      **Lele Sadoughi**

      Peony Flower Claw Clip

      **Look Three:** A Plain Tank Top with Satin Ballet Flats and a Vintage Yellow Bag

      **The Row**

      '90s Leather Shoulder Bag

      **J.Crew**

      Pointelle Tank Top

      **Miu Miu**

      The Day Buckle Mary Jane

      **Look Four:** A Blue Button-Down with White Flats

      **J.Crew**

      Étienne Oversized Shirt

      **DL1961**

      Pleated Denim Skirt Knee Length

      **Look Five:** A Funky Vintage Top with White Tabis and a Flower Hair Clip

      **Reformation**

      Malika Linen Top

      **Maison Margiela**

      Tabi Leather Ballerina Flats

      **Free People**

      Wakes Floral Claw Clip