Interesting Batik Maxi Skirt - Size Small

I have never been so baffled by a skirt before! Gorgeous red, white, yellow and blue batik design makes this skirt striking and vibrant. The geometric shape and eight ties inside makes it confusing 🤔 It's a bit hard to see in the picture because the ties are made with the same fabric as the skirt. There are four in the front and four in the back. I've tried different configurations and the last picture is the only way that makes sense. Size small, maybe more of an extra small. Waist (laid flat): Relaxed: 11" Stretched: 16" Length: 36.5"